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User profile for user: Waps19
Waps19 Author
User level: Level 1
4 points

Boot USB Installer fails after HD erase iMac 2019

I have a 27" 2019 iMac I am trying to set up. I have erased the HD and am trying to run a clean install from a Boot USB.

APFS is the only option for formatting.

I have run disk repair with no errors, re-erased the drive a few times but the installer fails toward the end of install. (approx 85%)

I have wifi connected. I have updated the date in terminal

I have tried Sequoia and Sonoma installs (apple tells me it is compatible) about to try Ventura.


Any other tips or advice? Any other extensive? disk check/repair options?

Posted on Nov 8, 2024 4:34 PM

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10 replies
User profile for user: rkaufmann87
rkaufmann87
User level: Level 10
144,120 points

Nov 9, 2024 9:01 PM in response to Waps19

Until it is setup by the original owner per the directions in What to do before you sell, give away, or trade in your Mac you basically have nothing but a boat anchor on your hands that will NEVER run correctly. Why, because it is associated with the old owners account and only the old owner can fix that problem. Moving forward NEVER EVER buy a used Mac from:


  • Ebay
  • Craigslist
  • Marketplace
  • Nextdoor
  • Local PC shop
  • Friend or neighbor
  • local garbage bin


Why, because 99% of the time they are not setup correctly and you are inheriting someone elses problems. If you cannot afford a new or an Apple Refurbished Mac then buy from a reputable reseller such as Macsales.com. In your case, I strongly recommend returning the computer to get your money back!!

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User profile for user: den.thed
den.thed
User level: Level 10
82,564 points

Nov 9, 2024 7:07 PM in response to Waps19

Contact the original owner and have them work with you to properly prepare the iMac.

see > What to do before you sell, give away, trade in, or recycle your Mac - Apple Support


The other option is to take the iMac to your local Apple Store or AASP with the sales receipt and see if they can help.


If neither of those option are possible, then you have purchased or been given a useless brick.

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Boot USB Installer fails after HD erase iMac 2019

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