Reset Xiaomi Redmi Note 5A to factory settings: the full guide

Resetting the Xiaomi Redmi Note 5A to factory settings is a procedure that can be required in a variety of situations, from preparing the device for sale to fixing software failures. This budget-friendly but functional device, released in 2017, is still popular among users due to the reliability and ability to install custom firmware. However, over time, even such a smartphone begins to “brake”, emit errors or simply requires a complete data cleanup.

Unlike new Xiaomi models, where reset is often integrated into MIUI Recovery with a GUI, the Redmi Note 5A may require a more careful approach — especially if it comes to unlocking the bootloader or recovering from a failed update. In this article, we will discuss all the current ways to reset, including nuances for different versions of the firmware, and also explain how to avoid typical errors that can turn your smartphone into a “brick”.

1.Resetting preparation: what to do before the start

Before you start resetting, make sure you follow all the necessary steps – this will save you from losing important data and unforeseen problems. Redmi Note 5A, like any Android device, stores user files in internal memory, which will be completely deleted.

First, back up. You can use:

• 📱 MIUI Backup (built-in solution): go to Settings → Additionally. → Backup and reset → Local backup.
• ☁️ Cloud services: Mi Cloud, Google Drive or Yandex Disk for synchronizing contacts, photos and documents.
• 💻 Manual copying on PC through MTP (Put your phone on like a flash drive).

If you forget the login data, after reset, FRP (Factory Reset Protection) protection can work - the phone will require you to enter a login and password from the last associated Xiaomi account. On models with MIUI 8 and older, FRP blocks the device even after a hard reset via Recovery.

⚠️ Note: If you are buying a Redmi Note 5A If you do not know the previous owner’s details, a reset without detachment of the account will lead to blocking, in which case you will need official proof of ownership through Xiaomi support.

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

The easiest and safest method is to reset directly from a working system, and it is suitable if:

• 🔓 Remember your password or pattern lock.
• 📱 The phone is on and running stably.
• ⚙️ You need to clear the data before selling or transferring.

Instructions:

1. Open the settings (cog icon).
2. Go to the section Additional → Backup and Reset.
3. Select Settings Reset.
4. Click Delete all data and confirm the action.

It takes 3-5 minutes, and when it's done, it automatically restarts and prompts you to configure it as new, and it doesn't affect the firmware, and it doesn't require you to unlock the bootloader.

Make a backup copy of the data

Charge your phone at least 50%

Make sure you remember your Mi Account information

Disable your Google account (if you plan to sell)

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Method 2: Recovery (hard reset)

If the phone doesn't turn on, hangs on the MI logo or is locked with a pattern lock, a reset via Recovery mode will help.The Redmi Note 5A has stock MIUI Recovery installed by default, but some users install custom (such as TWRP) for advanced features.

To enter Recovery:

1. Turn off the phone (press the power button for 10 seconds).
2. Press Volume Up + Power at the same time and hold for 5-7 seconds until the Mi logo appears.
3. Release the buttons and you will see a menu in English or Chinese.

The following steps depend on the type of recovery:

⚠️ Attention: If in MIUI Recovery, after selecting Wipe All Data, appears E:unknown command error, which means that the userdata partition is corrupted, in which case only reset via Fastboot (described in the next section) will help).

Method 3: Reset via Fastboot (for power users)

This method will be useful if:

• 🔧 Recovery does not start or gives out errors.
• 🔒 The phone's locked, and FRP-account not known.
• 🛠️ You need to unlock the loader before the firmware.

The work will require:

• 💻 Computer with drivers installed ADB/Fastboot (You can download from the official Android website).
• 🔌 Cable USB Type-C (original, undamaged).
• 🔋 Phone with a charge of at least 30%.

Step-by-step:

1. Turn off the phone and press Volume Down + Power to enter the Fastboot (the image of a hare in a hat-eared will appear).
2. Connect your phone to your PC and open the command line (Win + R → cmd).
3. Check the connection command: fastboot devices If the device is determined (the serial number will appear), continue.
4. Run reset: fastboot erase userdata fastboot erase cache fastboot reboot

On the Redmi Note 5A with MIUI 9 and later after reset via Fastboot, you may need to re-activate the device through your Mi Account. If you don’t remember the data, the phone will remain locked.

fastboot format userdata

(for new versions of MIUI):

fastboot -w

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5. Resolving errors after reset

Even after a successful reset, the Redmi Note 5A can be unstable.

If after resetting the phone requires a Mi Account, but you do not remember it, try:

1. Sign in through the web version of Mi Account and reset your password.
2. Use FRP bypass through TWRP (requires an unlocked bootloader).
3. Contact the Xiaomi Service Center with proof of purchase.

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If the phone doesn’t turn on or gives up errors after the reset, it’s likely the firmware problem, in which case only a complete flashing through the Mi Flash Tool with Clean All and Lock mode (but this will block the bootloader!) will help.

6 Unlock the bootloader: when it is needed and how to do it

On the Redmi Note 5A, as on all Xiaomi smartphones, the bootloader is blocked by default.

• 🔓 Install custom firmware (LineageOS, Pixel Experience).
• 🛠️ Restore the device through TWRP after major disruption.
• ⚡ Modify system files (e.g. for rooting).

The official unlock is done through the Mi Unlock Tool utility, but it has limitations:

• ⏳ You need to wait 72-360 hours after linking your account to your device.
• 📱 The phone should be on stock firmware.
• 🔗 Mi Account must be linked to the device before unlocking.

Instructions for unlocking:

1. Download Mi Unlock Tool from the official website.
2. Turn on the phone Developer Options (7 times click on the MIUI version in Settings → About phone).
3. Activate OEM Unlock and USB Debugging in Settings → Additional → For Developers.
4. Connect your phone to your PC in Fastboot mode and launch the Mi Unlock Tool.
5. Log in to your Mi Account and follow the program instructions.

⚠️ Warning: Once the bootloader is unlocked, all data, including internal memory, will be reset, and the warranty (if it is still valid) will be cancelled. L1 (Streaming quality down on Netflix, Disney+).

7.Alternative methods: when standard methods do not work

If none of the methods described have helped, consider the following options:

• 🔧 Firmware through EDL-Mode: used to "brick" the phone (when it does not respond to any buttons (EDL cable) or soldering works for closing test points on the board.
• 🔄 Reverse to an older version MIUI: Sometimes it helps if the crash happened after the update. Use the Mi Flash Tool with.tgz firmware for your model.
• 🛠️ Service center: if the phone is warranty-free or you're unsure of your skills, it's best to reach out to the professionals.Redmi Note's Average Recovery Cost 5A after a software failure – 1,500–3,000 ₽.

For firmware in EDL-mode you will need:

• The firmware file is in.mbn format (can be found on the 4PDA or XDA-Developers forums).
• Mi Flash Pro or QFil.
• Qualcomm HS-USB QDLoader 9008 Driver (installs manually through Device Manager).

FAQ: Frequent questions about Redmi Note 5A reset