Chosen Solution
Hey there, I was donated an iMac, which happens to have a firmware lock on it (not stolen or anything, just the previous owner somehow failed to remember the password). We have been unable to reset the firmware password through Apple, as the previous owner does not want anything to do with it. It has the standard 1TB Fusion Drive, which appears to be failing. My question is: if I create a bootable disk on another mac, and swap it out with disk inside the iMac, will it boot? I’m ultimately worried that I will have a relatively new iMac on my hands, which I can only sell for parts once the drive has broken. Would rather keep it going! Many thanks in advance!
Swapping the drives won’t fix things here as the firmware password is within the logic board not the drive. Can you get the original sales slip of the system from the previous owner. As you’ll need to visit an Apple Store with proof of ownership. In addition to the sales slip you’ll need a copy of the persons ID (drivers lic) and a letter explaining they sold it to you (don’t get into donated that adds questions). For them to clear the firmware password. Now be aware Apple will compare the Apple ID used in the system and the persons ID if they don’t match it will be assumed as being stolen! So if this person who gave you the system is not the correct user then you’re toast!
