How to Fix: Lenovo Thinkpad T450s: "Error: The non-volatile system UEFI variable storage is nearly full."
Lenovo Thinkpad T450s UEFI storage issue with Debian jessie and kernel 4.5+73~bpo8+1.
📋 Table of Contents
The Lenovo Thinkpad T450s is experiencing an error message 'Error: The non-volatile system UEFI variable storage is nearly full.' This issue affects users who have installedDebian jessie on their machine, with a kernel version of 4.5+73~bpo8+1. The problem started four weeks ago, and since then, the machine has been unable to boot properly due to this error.
This issue is frustrating for several reasons. Firstly, it's unclear what causes this error, making it difficult to diagnose and fix. Additionally, Lenovo support has been unhelpful in resolving the issue, leaving the user with limited options. In this guide, we will explore possible root causes and provide a step-by-step solution to resolve the problem.
⚠️ Common Causes
- The primary reason for this error is that the UEFI firmware has filled up its non-volatile system variable storage. This can happen due to various reasons such as incorrect configuration, faulty hardware, or incomplete installation of the operating system. In some cases, the issue might be caused by a conflict between the UEFI firmware and the Linux kernel.
- Another possible reason for this error is that the UEFI firmware has been corrupted or damaged in some way, causing it to fill up its storage space. This could have happened due to a software update, hardware failure, or other external factors.
🔧 Proven Troubleshooting Steps
Resetting the UEFI Firmware
- Step 1: Enter the BIOS setup by pressing the key indicated in your Thinkpad's manual (usually F2, F12, or Del). Navigate to the 'Advanced' tab and select 'UEFI Firmware Settings'. Then, select 'Reset UEFI Firmware' and confirm your selection.
- Step 2: Once the UEFI firmware has been reset, save the changes and exit the BIOS setup. The machine should now boot into the Debian operating system without displaying the error message.
- Step 3: After successful boot, check the UEFI firmware settings to ensure that the storage space is not filled up again. If the issue persists, proceed with method 2.
Reinstalling the UEFI Firmware
- Step 1: Download the latest UEFI firmware for your Thinkpad T450s from Lenovo's official website or a reputable third-party source. Make sure to select the correct version compatible with your machine.
- Step 2: Flash the new UEFI firmware onto your machine using a tool like Rufus or a similar software. Follow the on-screen instructions carefully and ensure that you back up any important data before proceeding.
💡 Conclusion
In conclusion, the error message 'Error: The non-volatile system UEFI variable storage is nearly full' can be resolved by either resetting or reinstalling the UEFI firmware. If the issue persists after attempting both methods, it's recommended to seek further assistance from Lenovo support or a professional IT technician.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
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