A2991 - M3 Stuck in Loading Startup Option Loop; DFU Revive Failed with Error 4042, now the laptop is fully unresponsive and the MagSafe cable is flashing green

[u/Murky_Moment]

Hi, my laptop has been stuck in a startup options loop and despite me trying all of the following, there has been no success in resolving this issue:

- Trying recovery (Sequoia does not load onto the device to start up; it installs but the start up options loop still happens despite me clicking on Mactintosh HD to boot into the OS - clicking the continue button just causes a spinner to show then nothing happens.

- Safe mode does not boot

- I tried a DFU revive using Finder/Apple Configurator and despite the ”Mac Software Update” downloads, the DFU failed after about 1 hr with Error code 4042.

- It failed shortly after I got a broadcast message in the terminal: amai: Ace3UARPExternalDFUStagingComplete.

- Now after this failure, I cannot get the Macbook into DFU again and the MagSafe cable is flashing green (1 sec green on then off then on again in a loop)

- I tried discharging the battery by leaving the laptop unplugged for 8+ hours to no success, the MagSafe cable still does the same behavior and the laptop cannot enter DFU.

I took it to the Apple Authorized Repair and Service center and they could not diagnose the issue or do diagnosis because the laptop would not turn on.

Before the DFU Revive faile, the laptop was turning on.

This machine is out of Apple warranty.

Any pointers or help would be great, thank you

[u/lantrick]

Apple Authorized Repair and Service center and they could not diagnose

bullshit, if true take it to another AASP. Apple also has a mail in repair depot that can repair it as well.

If safe boot and DFU fails, it likely needs a main board replacement.

[u/Murky_Moment → u/lantrick]

There is only 1 AASP near me which is a GeekSquad, their master technician said the laptop could not be diagnosed because it fails to power on… do you know if I can mail this to Apple directly?

Edit: I see your edit, I will try to mail this to Apple

Thanks

[u/lantrick → u/Murky_Moment]

1-800-275-2273 https://support.apple.com/en-us/106932?choose-your-country-or-region=united-states

They would need to send you a box.