The problem occurs when a user attempts to enter recovery mode on their Mac, but the system boots up in normal mode instead. This issue can affect any model and year of Mac. Before you begin troubleshooting to force your Mac into recovery mode, ensure that there is no firmware password set; if there is, remove it, as the recovery options will be inaccessible with a firmware password in place. Additionally, recovery options are only available for Lion macOS or later. If your system is not running at least Lion macOS, you will need to perform a clean install of macOS using a DVD or USB drive. It is also beneficial to use a Mac keyboard during the troubleshooting process. Turn off your system and then turn it on (instead of just restarting) to see if the issue is temporary. Also, ensure that your system’s keyboard is functioning properly.
Solution 1: Switch to a Wired Keyboard
Mac users often operate with a Bluetooth or wireless keyboard. However, the wireless/Bluetooth keyboard’s connectivity may become active too late during the boot process, leading to the keys not being registered in time and resulting in the error at hand. In such cases, using a wired keyboard may resolve the issue.
Solution 2: Reset NVRAM to Factory Defaults
NVRAM plays a vital role in many startup processes on your Mac. Corrupt NVRAM can lead to the aforementioned error. Resetting NVRAM back to its default settings may correct the problem, although this solution might not be applicable to all users.
Solution 3: Try Different Combinations of Power-On Buttons and Command + R Keys
If you’re using an incorrect sequence of keys or power-on button presses to access recovery mode, the desired result may not occur. Experimenting with the combinations listed below could resolve the issue.
Multiple Key Taps
Press and Hold Command + R Keys
Press Keys After the Green Light Flashes
Press Keys While Holding Power Button
Press Keys Before Powering On the System
Press the Keys After NumLock Flash
Solution 4: Clean Install macOS
If the recovery partition is missing or not installed, booting into recovery mode using the Command + R keys could be impossible. In this situation, a clean installation of macOS using external media, like a DVD or USB device, is necessary to format the Mac without recovery mode. Verify the presence of the recovery partition by executing the following command in Terminal, which opens Disk Utility: If no recovery partition exists, perform the following steps to clean install macOS: If you’ve recently replaced the SSD or HDD, the older disk might contain the recovery partition. Utilize that disk to undertake the recovery procedure. In the event that no solution has been effective thus far, attempt an Internet recovery (Command + Option + R keys) of your system, and make sure to connect your system directly to the router. If the issue continues, consider seeking advanced troubleshooting at an Apple store.
