Reset Xiaomi Redmi 6A to factory settings: full instructions with photos

The Xiaomi Redmi 6A is one of the brand’s most popular budget smartphones, but even it can eventually start to slow down, issue bugs or require a complete system reinstallation. Resetting to factory settings solves 90% of software problems, from slowdowns to viruses. However, an incorrect reset can turn a phone into a “brick” if you do not take into account the nuances of a particular model.

In this article, we have three proven ways to reset Redmi 6A (including when the phone doesn’t respond to buttons), step-by-step photos of each step, and a list of critical errors to avoid, and what to do if the device doesn’t boot or requires a Mi Account after the reset.

When you need to reset Redmi 6A to factory settings

Resetting is not a panacea, but in some cases it is really necessary:

• 🐢 The phone is severely slowing down, applications spontaneously close and Settings → Memory shows a filled storage (even if you haven't installed anything).
• 🔄 After updating MIUI there are glitches: sensors do not work, communication or Wi-Fi disappears, time is lost.
• 📱 The device is infected with a virus that is not removed by antivirus software (such as adware or Trojans).
• 🔒 You sell or transfer your phone to another person and want to delete all personal data.
• 🚨 Smartphone locked after failed attempts to enter a password or pattern lock.

But there are situations where resetting will not help:

• 🔋 The battery is swelling or the phone is turned off when 30-40% Replacement of battery (replacement of battery).
• 📱 The screen crashed and did not respond to touch (requires a display repair or PC connection).
• 📡 Communication antenna damaged (no network even after resetting).

⚠️ Note: If you are dropping Redmi 6A Before selling, be sure to log out of your Mi Account (Settings) → Xiaomi account → Otherwise, the new owner won't be able to use the phone!

Preparing for resetting: how not to lose important data

The factory reset completely removes:

• 📸 Photos and videos (including screenshots).
• 📱 Contacts, SMS Call history (if not synced to Google).
• 🎵 Music, downloads and documents.
• 🎮 Save games and customize applications.

What is retained after discharge:

• 📁 Files on SD-(if not used as internal memory).
• 🌐 Google, Xiaomi and social media account details (provided you remember passwords).
• 📱 IMEI and serial number (if the firmware is not damaged).

How to save data before resetting:

1. Copy files to the PC through USB-Cable (in File Transfer mode). Use Xiaomi File Manager or Total Commander to speed up.
2. Sync your contacts with Google: Settings → Accounts → Google → Contact Sync.
3. Make a backup through Settings → Additional → Backup and Reset → Local Backup.
4. Save SMS with apps like SMS Backup & Restore (available on Google Play).

If the phone doesn’t turn on or is stuck on the Mi logo, go straight to Method 2 or 3 (via Recovery or Fastboot).

Method 1: Reset via the settings menu (if the phone is working)

This is the easiest and safest method, but it is only available if:

• 📱 The phone is turned on and reacts to touch.
• 🔓 Remember your password or pattern lock.
• 📶 No hardware damage (screen is broken, touch screen is not working).

Step-by-step:

1. Open Settings (the gear icon on the main screen).
2. Scroll down and select Additional.
3. Go to Backup and Reset.
4. Slip Settings Reset.
5. Select to erase all data (if you want to delete files on the SD-map, mark the corresponding item).
6. Enter a password or pattern lock (if requested).
7. Confirm the action by clicking Reset the phone.

The process will take 3-7 minutes, and once completed, the phone will automatically restart and prompt you to set it up as new.

⚠️ Note: If after the Redmi reset 6A requires you to enter the username and password from Mi Account, and you do not remember them - the phone is locked! You can unlock it only through the official Xiaomi website (you need a tied number or email).

Method 2: Reset via Recovery Mode (if the phone is not turned on)

This method is suitable if:

• 📱 The phone is stuck on startup the Mi logo or cyclically reboots.
• 🔓 You forgot your password and your device is locked.
• 📵 The screen responds to touches, but the system does not load.

How to get into Recovery on Redmi 6A:

1. Turn off the phone (press the power button for 10-15 seconds).
2. Press the Power button + Volume Up button at the same time.
3. Hold them until the Mi logo appears, then let them go.
4. In 5-10 seconds, the Recovery menu will appear (in English or Chinese).

How to reset your settings in Recovery:

1. Use volume buttons for navigation and power button for selection.
2. Select Wipe Data (or Chinese firmware).
3. Confirm the action by selecting Wipe All Data (or similar).
4. Wait until the process is complete (the screen will display the inscription Data wipe complete).
5. Go back to the main menu and select Reboot → Reboot to System.

If the menu is in Chinese, focus on the location of the items:

⚠️ Note: If you don't have Wipe Data in Recovery, you have custom firmware installed, in which case the reset may cause you to lose your Wipe Data. IMEI or lock the bootloader. It is better to use method 3 (via Fastboot).

💡

If the volume buttons don’t work in Recovery, plug your phone into charging – sometimes this helps to “wake up” the menu.

Method 3: Fastboot Reset (for power users)

This method requires a computer and is used if:

• 📱 Recovery is damaged or missing.
• 🔧 You need to reflash your phone (for example, after a failed update).
• 🔒 The phone is locked by Mi Account and you want to unlock it (official unlocker required).

What you need:

• 💻 Windows computer 7/10/11 (or Mac/Linux).
• 🔌 USB-cable (preferably original).
• 📥 Mi Flash Tool (download from [official website](https://new.c.mi.com/global/miuidownload/index)).
• 📱 Firmware for Redmi 6A (The version should match your model!).

Step-by-step:

1. Turn off the phone.
2. Press the Power Button + Volume Down button before the Fastboot logo appears.
3. Connect the phone to the PC.
4. Run the Mi Flash Tool and press Refresh – the program must detect the device.
5. Select the downloaded firmware (file with the extension.tgz or.zip).
6. At the bottom, select Clean All (full reset) or Save User Data (not recommended).
7. Press Flash and wait until it is completed (5-10 minutes).

After successful firmware, the phone will restart in factory condition.

💡

Fastboot reset removes everything, including firmware. If you choose the wrong version of MIUI, the phone may stop turning on!

What to do if Redmi 6A does not turn on after reset

If after resetting the phone:

• 📱 Does not respond to the power button – check charging (plug in for 30 minutes).
• 🔄 Hanging on the Mi logo - try to go to Recovery and repeat the reset.

Common mistakes and their solutions:

If none of these methods worked, there may be a problem with the hardware (damaged memory, power controller, etc.) in which case, contact the service center.

How to avoid problems after resetting

To keep the phone running smoothly:

• 📱 Do not install custom firmware without unlocking the bootloader (this will lead to blocking).
• 🔄 Update. MIUI Only through official channels (Settings) → Updating the system).
• 🛡️ Install antivirus (such as Avast or Bitdefender) and do not download APK unverified.

If you are selling a phone, you must:

1. Sign out of your Mi Account and Google account.
2. Delete everything. SIM-maps SD-map.
3. Reset your settings (preferably via Fastboot to delete all data without recovery).

FAQ: Frequent questions about Redmi 6A reset