21.5" 4K iMac will only start in safe mode

Question

21.5" 4K iMac will only start in safe mode

I everyone. My iMac will no longer boot in normal mode, but it will boot in safe mode.

It seems to be hardware, not software. I just installed a new hard drive, and reinstalled a fresh copy of Monterey, and it still does not boot in normal mode.

Diagnostic report from apple says everyone passes. Even the memory test.
I ran EtreCheckPro and it gave a report I will put below. it says at some point in there, GPU not found. Is this a known issue and is there anything that I can do about this?
It also says it is experiencing kernel panics. I will copy it all below as well.

Thanks for your insights everyone!

EntreCheckPro Report

[Image Edited by Moderator to Remove Personal Information]

Posted on Mar 3, 2022 10:03 PM

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Answer 1

Best reply

SeaPapp

Level 7

26,486 points

Mar 4, 2022 2:49 AM in response to TimothyQuinlan

Safe mode disables accelerated graphics and will allow a mac with a failing gpu to boot, I suspect that's what may be causing your problem. The ONLY way to be sure would be to make an appointment and take your iMac in for a through diagnostic.

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Answer 2

padams35

Level 4

3,325 points

Mar 4, 2022 1:41 PM in response to TimothyQuinlan

The GPU is soldered to the logic board and would require both epic skill and specialized equipment to replace. For all practical purposes its a non-serviceable component that would require a logic board replacement.

It might be worth attempting an NVRAM reset. Reset NVRAM or PRAM on your Mac - Apple Support

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Answer 3

Mar 4, 2022 9:50 AM in response to SeaPapp

That is very helpful, thank you!

Does anyone know of a way to disable hardware acceleration as a way to test this out?

Also, I am assuming the GPU cannot be replaced? Or have adventurous souls tried this out before? I know full logic board replacements are very expensive!

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Answer 4

Mar 15, 2022 10:16 AM in response to SeaPapp

Hi there, I can confirm the graphic card is the issue. Do you, or anyone, know a way to disable accelerated graphics in terminal so I can use this computer for a bit while I find a suitable replacement?

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