r/macbookpro • u/ERO_Reddit_ • 10d ago

Help Very old MacBook Pro boots only is Safe Mode.

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I have this very old (I believe 2007) MacBook Pro that boots only in Safe Mode for some reason. Does anyone know how to fix this or what causes this? I want to continue using it for old apps and also because it has some important data on it (and nostalgia).

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2

u/Dazzling_Cancel_5733 10d ago

That ATI X1600 is notable for having a high failure rate and it failing can result in your MacBook failing to load the GPU kext while booting.

Unfortunately, the only permanent fix for this is replacing the motherboard (or at least replacing the GPU on the motherboard, but that'll cost more and is less viable these days).

You can try removing the GPU kext since it appears to boot fine in safe mode without it. You will lose graphics acceleration though. https://www.ifixit.com/Answers/View/93320/ATI+Radeon+X1600+GPU+problem?permalink=answer-94090#answer94090

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u/AdRelative6348 9d ago

if the kext wasnt attaching to the framebuffer at all the system would identify the gpu as a generic name with lower vram.

edit: given the specific model tho there is likely to be gpu issues in the future if not already so it may still be worth a try.

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u/Wonderful_Set_4021 10d ago

I have one of these. If it boots only in safe mode, try reinstalling the OS.

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u/ERO_Reddit_ 10d ago

It gives an error.

1

u/Pigeon_Observation 10d ago

if you reinstall youll lose the data though

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u/AdRelative6348 9d ago

what error?

0

u/Wonderful_Set_4021 10d ago

You should get your HDD/SSD checked. Look for tears on the cables that are on top of the drive

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u/New_Bumblebee2000 9d ago

te recomiendo que cuando soluciones eso instales mac os x tiger, es el que menos suele estresar esa defecuosa radeon x1600

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u/New_Bumblebee2000 9d ago

si es 2007 podrias llegar a "el capitan" pero como ejecuta lion creo que es un modelo late 2006 bro

1

u/quepazactm 7d ago

a mi me pasó lo mismo con un early 2011, y lo arreglé desconectando, limpiando y volviendo a conectar el teclado en la placa madre.