How to reset Xiaomi Redmi 9C to factory settings: 3 working ways

Resetting the Xiaomi Redmi 9C to factory settings is a procedure that solves most problems, from slowdowns and errors to preparing the device for sale. But not everyone knows that a complete reset removes not only apps and settings, but also internal memory (photos, videos, documents), and in some cases, also blocks access to the device if you forget your Mi Account.

In this article, we will discuss three official reset methods for the Redmi 9C (including NFC models and versions with 2/3/4 GB of RAM) relevant for MIUI 12, 13 and 14. Particular attention will be paid to the pitfalls: why a smartphone can not reset through the menu, how to bypass the request for a password in Recovery Mode, and what to do if after reset the phone requires an old Mi Account.

If you reset your device before selling, don’t miss the Xiaomi account unbundle section, which will save the new owner from activation problems.

1.Reset preparation: what to save and why

Before you start resetting, make sure you have backups of important data.The Redmi 9C internal memory is formatted fully - meaning loss of:

• 📸 Photos and videos in the gallery (including screenshots and downloads from messengers)
• 📱 Contacts that are not synced to Google or Mi Cloud
• 🎵 Music and downloaded files (e.g. from Telegram or browser)
• 📁 Application settings (e.g. save in games, chat history on WhatsApp)

Methods of backup:

• ☁️ Mi Cloud: automatically saves contacts, notes, photos (if synchronization is enabled). → Xiaomi account → Mi Cloud.
• 🖥️ Computer: Connect Redmi 9C down USB, Select the file transfer mode (MTP) And copy the data manually.
• 📲 Third-party apps: Google Photos (for media), Titanium Backup (for applications, requires root).

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If you have two-factor authentication enabled in your Mi Account, write backup codes or disable them before resetting. After the procedure, you may need to re-assign the device.

Battery attention: If the reset is done via Recovery Mode, make sure the charge is at least 30%.During the discharge, the Redmi 9C can turn into a brick (not turned on).

2. Method 1: Reset via the settings menu (the easiest)

This method is suitable if:

• ✅ The smartphone is turned on and reacts to touch
• ✅ You remember the pattern lock./PIN-code
• ✅ No need to get around Mi Account

Step-by-step:

1. Open Settings (the gear icon on the main screen).
2. Scroll down and select About Phone.
3. Slip on Reset (in some versions of MIUI - Recover and Reset).
4. Choose to erase all data.
5. Enter the unlock password (if installed).
6. Confirm the action by clicking Reset Settings.

Upload important files to the cloud|Check the battery charge (minimum 30%)|Remember the data from the Mi Account|Disable your Google account (if you plan to sell)-->

It takes 5-10 minutes, and after you restart, you'll see the screen of the initial setup, just like you did after you bought it.

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

If Redmi 9C is stuck on the logo, does not respond to the screen or is locked, a hardware reset via recovery mode will help.

Instructions:

1. Turn off the phone (press the power button for 10 seconds).
2. Press the Power button + Volume up at the same time and hold for 10-15 seconds until the Mi logo appears.
3. Release the buttons and you will see the Recovery menu (in English or Chinese).
4. Use volume buttons for navigation and power button for selection.
5. Choose Wipe Data → Wipe All Data.
6. Confirm the action by selecting Confirm.
7. Once you have finished, select Reboot → Reboot to System.

Attention to the language bar: If the Recovery menu is in Chinese, look for characters (clear data) and (confirm).

Through the settings menu | Through Recovery Mode | Through the Mi Unlock Tool | Never reset-->

Method 3: Delete Mi Account before reset (for sale)

If you sell or transfer Redmi 9C, it's not enough to just reset your settings, the device will remain attached to your Mi Account, and the new owner will not be able to activate it.

Steps:

1. Go to Settings → Xiaomi account.
2. Put it on your profile (email or phone number).
3. Select Exit (in some versions - Delete your account).
4. Enter the password from Mi Account for confirmation.
5. Return to Settings → Reset and reset (see Method 1).

After detachment of the account, the smartphone can be reset - the new owner will be able to enter under his profile without restrictions.

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If you have forgotten the password from Mi Account, restore it to account.xiaomi.com. After resetting via Recovery, it will be impossible to unlock the phone without a password!

5. Frequent errors and their solutions

Even if you follow the instructions correctly, users face problems. Consider typical scenarios:

Error 1: "I failed to reset the settings"

Reason: Find Device is enabled in Mi Cloud.

1. Open i.mi.com on PC.
2. Sign in under your account.
3. Find the Redmi 9C in the list of devices and remove it.
4. Repeat the reset.

Error 2: After reset requires an old Mi Account

This means that the account was not untied before the reset.

• 🔑 Enter your old account details (if you remember).
• 📧 If you forget your password, restore it through email/SMS Xiaomi.
• 🛠️ If your account is not yours (for example, a handheld phone is purchased) contact the previous owner or use the Mi Unlock Tool (requires a wait of 72 hours).

Mistake 3: phone is stuck on startup logo after reset

Possible causes:

• 🔋 The battery was drained during the procedure.
• 📱 Firmware is damaged (for example, after a failed update).

Solution: Re-reset the reset via Recovery Mode, pre-charge the phone to 50%. If it doesn't work, you need to flash it through Fastboot.

6.Alternative methods: when standard methods do not work

If none of the above methods worked (e.g., Recovery Mode is password-locked and Mi Account data is lost), consider the following options:

Method 4: Use of Mi Unlock Tool (official)

This is Xiaomi's software to unlock the bootloader and delete the Mi Account.

• ⏳ Requires waiting 72 hours after linking your account to your device.
• 💻 Need a Windows computer and original USB-cable.

Instructions:

1. Download Mi Unlock Tool from the official website.
2. Sign in to the program under the same Mi Account as on the phone.
3. Put Redmi 9C in Fastboot mode (clip Power + Volume down).
4. Connect your phone to your PC and follow the instructions of the program.

Method 5: Fastboot Firmware (for experienced)

If the smartphone doesn't even turn on in Recovery, you have to manually flash it, and you'll be careful, because it will delete all the data and it could lead to a loss of warranty.

It will require:

• 🖥️ Computer with drivers installed ADB/Fastboot.
• 📁 Firmware for Redmi 9C (download from Xiaomi website).
• 🔧 Mi Flash Tool Programming.

7.What to do after resetting: initial setup

After a successful reset, the Redmi 9C will offer to go through the initial setup.

• 🔄 Do not restore data from backup if the reset was due to viruses or errors – the problem may return.
• ☁️ Link a new Mi Account (if you have the phone) or skip this step (if you sell it).
• 🔒 Set up unlock (PIN/graphic keys – this will protect data when stolen.
• 📱 Update the firmware to the latest version in Settings → Updating the system.

Attention to apps: Once reset, Xiaomi can automatically install standard programs (e.g. Mi Browser, Mi Video) that can be removed or disabled in Settings → Apps.

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If the phone is slower after reset, check the animation settings: go to Settings → About Phone → MIUI version and tap 7 times according to version. Then to Settings → Additional → For developers, turn off the animation windows (Animation Scale = Off.).

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions