MacBook wont start up into safe mode

Question

Level 1

4 points

MacBook wont start up into safe mode

I’m having an issue with my Intel-based MacBook and need assistance. The device won’t boot into Safe Mode. I’ve tried holding the Shift key while turning it on, but nothing happens.

I’ve followed the instructions for the M1 chip reboot as well, thinking it might be related, but no luck there either. At this point, I’ve attempted to reinstall the operating system on my MacBook via macOS Recovery (Command + R), but even in this mode, I’m unable to make any progress. Specifically, getting error code:"com.apple.buildinfo.preflight.error error 21” - I can’t erase or delete the hard drive, and I don’t have access to any useful options that would allow me to move forward.

In Addition to that, for context:

• I am an executive at a company and have many confidential, personnel-related documents on the drive. Unfortunately, these documents aren’t backed up, and I need to find a resolution before resorting to more drastic measures like data erasure or reformatting.

MacBook Pro 13″, macOS 15.0

Posted on Jan 3, 2025 11:18 PM

Reply

Answer 1

Jan 4, 2025 6:09 PM in response to ayytechophil

What happens when you attempt to boot into Safe Mode? "Nothing happens" doesn't really tell me anything.

Only hold the Shift key immediately after hearing the startup chime. Holding it too soon or too late will cause the key not to be recognized. Plus a wireless keyboard may not always go ready soon enough for the key to be recognized. You can also try an Option Boot, then when you click on the boot drive icon (default is "Macintosh HD") make sure to be holding the Shift key first and keep holding the Shift key until you log in. If Filevault is enabled, then make sure to hold the Shift key down as you click to submit your password.

What is the exact model of your Mac and version of macOS? You can get the exact model by entering the system serial number on the check coverage page here (please don't post the serial number since it is considered personal information):

Check Your Service and Support Coverage - Apple Support

Unfortunately if you are using a 2018-2020 Intel Mac with USB-C ports, then you may be out of luck. Sometimes there is just no way to boot the system to attempt to access the data on the internal SSD. There are a lot of new ways to permanently lose access to the data on the internal SSD of the recent Macs due to all the hardware, software, and security changes.

FYI, here is an Apple article to address various startup issues:

If your Mac doesn't start up all the way - Apple Support

Is Filevault enabled?

Reply