MacBook: Recovery mode, reset and reinstalling macOS
When your MacBook freezes, start with a restart and Safe Mode. Recovery mode and reinstalling macOS are the next steps.
- Most common cause
- a system error or an overloaded drive
- Time
- 30 minutes to 2 hours
- Repair shop, if nothing helps
- 270–820 zł
Warning: erasing the drive and resetting to factory settings delete data. Back up with Time Machine or iCloud. Keep the charger plugged in for the whole process.
Step by step
Force shut down
Hold the power button for about 10 seconds until the Mac turns off. Wait a moment and turn it on again.
Start in Safe Mode
On an Apple Silicon Mac, hold the power button until the startup options appear. Choose your disk, hold Shift and click “Continue in Safe Mode”. On an Intel Mac, hold Shift right after turning it on.
Enter Recovery mode
On Apple Silicon, hold the power button and choose Options. On Intel, hold Cmd + R right after turning it on.
Use Disk Utility
In Recovery mode, open Disk Utility and run First Aid on the drive. This doesn't erase data.
Reinstall macOS
In Recovery mode, choose the option to reinstall macOS. This usually doesn't delete your files, but a backup is a good idea.
Warning: erase data
Warning: erasing the drive or using “Erase All Content and Settings” deletes all data. Back up before you choose it. The path depends on your system version, so search System Settings for “reset”.
- The Mac won't enter Recovery mode.
- Disk Utility shows a drive error that can't be repaired.
- The problem comes back after reinstalling.
- The Mac gets very hot or the battery is swollen.
How much does a repair shop charge?
| Diagnosis at a repair shop | 0–200 zł |
| Battery replacement | 480–1100 zł |
| Repairing or replacing the SSD | 540–2050 zł |
| Motherboard repair | 820–3400 zł |
Typical prices at independent repair shops in Poland, October 2026. Authorised service centres and big cities can be more expensive.
Repair or buy new?
Restarting, Safe Mode and reinstalling macOS cost 0 zł. Replacing the battery is often worth it. If the drive or motherboard fails on an older model, use the calculator to see whether a repair makes sense.
Check if repairing your MacBook is worth it
Pick your model and fault. In 2 minutes we show the repair cost, what the device is worth and an honest verdict.
Open the calculator →FAQ
How do I enter Recovery mode on a MacBook?
On Apple Silicon, hold the power button and choose Options. On Intel, hold Cmd + R right after turning it on.
Does reinstalling macOS delete my files?
Usually not, but make a backup to be safe.
How do I know if I have Apple Silicon or Intel?
Click the Apple logo, choose “About This Mac” and check the Chip or Processor field.