How to revive Mac Mini M2 2023

How to revive Mac Mini M2 2023 (purchased 2024) with blinking red light after lightning storm and failed Belkin surge protector?


None of the online info I can find is doable because the computer doesn't get past the blinking red light. Also everything I've read about reviving it by connecting to another Mac says it can't be revived with an intel Mac, which is all we have: an older Mac Mini and 2 Mac Book Airs.

Mac mini (M2, 2023)

Posted on Jul 17, 2026 7:36 AM

Reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Jul 17, 2026 7:50 AM

Yes, you need an Apple Silicon Mac or at least an Intel Mac with a T2 chip to even attempt to revive it.

click here ➜ Mac computers with the Apple T2 Security Chip - Apple Support


With that said, there is one thing you can try before another Mac is required.


Turn off the Mac Mini by holding the power button for 10 seconds. Unplug all accessories (USB drives, external hubs, monitors, and Ethernet) except for the power cord, keyboard, and one display. Turn it back on.

If the light turns white, then you can start plugging everything back in.


If it goes back to being red / orange, and the display is black then it's in Firmware recovery and you will need the other Mac to restore it.

If you don't have one at home, see if you can borrow one from a relative, friend or neighbor and follow the steps below.

click here ➜ How to revive or restore Mac firmware - Apple Support


If you can't get access to an Apple Silicon Mac, then set up an appointment at an Apple Store so they can help you restore it or at least let you use one of their floor model to restore it.


click here ➜ Apple Service and Repair for Mac Desktops - Apple Support

5 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Jul 17, 2026 7:50 AM in response to Patty1959-2013

Yes, you need an Apple Silicon Mac or at least an Intel Mac with a T2 chip to even attempt to revive it.

click here ➜ Mac computers with the Apple T2 Security Chip - Apple Support


With that said, there is one thing you can try before another Mac is required.


Turn off the Mac Mini by holding the power button for 10 seconds. Unplug all accessories (USB drives, external hubs, monitors, and Ethernet) except for the power cord, keyboard, and one display. Turn it back on.

If the light turns white, then you can start plugging everything back in.


If it goes back to being red / orange, and the display is black then it's in Firmware recovery and you will need the other Mac to restore it.

If you don't have one at home, see if you can borrow one from a relative, friend or neighbor and follow the steps below.

click here ➜ How to revive or restore Mac firmware - Apple Support


If you can't get access to an Apple Silicon Mac, then set up an appointment at an Apple Store so they can help you restore it or at least let you use one of their floor model to restore it.


click here ➜ Apple Service and Repair for Mac Desktops - Apple Support

Jul 17, 2026 7:41 AM in response to Patty1959-2013

Mac computer status indicator light behavior - Apple Support

How to revive or restore Mac firmware - Apple Support


If you don't have a Mac that is up to the task of reviving the Mac mini, I suggest you make an appointment at an Apple Store or Apple Authorized Service Provider.


You can make a Genius Bar appointment for hardware/software service and support using this link: Make a Genius Bar reservation - Apple Support


Customer Support (800) MY–APPLE (800–692–7753) or on line /getsupport.apple.com/ 

or call AppleCare Support at 1-800-APLCARE (800-275-2273) 

Outside the US: Apple’s global phone numbers: Contact Apple Support 


How to revive Mac Mini M2 2023

Welcome to Apple Support Community
A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple Account.