Whether you’re selling your device, troubleshooting software issues, or clearing storage, performing a factory reset on a Motorola phone can help restore it to its original state. A factory reset erases all your data and settings, making the device feel like new again.
In this guide, you’ll learn two effective ways to reset a Motorola phone—via Settings (when the phone is accessible) and via Recovery Mode (when you’re locked out or it won’t boot up properly).
Backup Before You Reset
Before starting a factory reset, remember that this process will erase everything on your phone, including:
- Contacts
- Photos and videos
- Apps and app data
- Messages
- Files and downloads
To back up your data:
Go to Settings > Google > Backup and ensure backup is turned on for your Google account. You can also manually transfer photos, files, and other data to a computer or SD card.
Factory Reset via Settings (If You Can Access the Phone)
If your Motorola phone is unlocked and working, follow these simple steps:
- Open the Settings app.
- Scroll down and tap System.
- Tap Reset options.
- Select Erase all data (factory reset).
- Tap Reset Phone, then confirm by tapping Erase Everything.
- Enter your PIN, password, or pattern if prompted.
Your phone will restart and begin the reset process, which usually takes 5–10 minutes. Once complete, the phone will boot into the initial setup screen.
Factory Reset via Recovery Mode (If You’re Locked Out)
If you can’t unlock your phone or it won’t turn on properly, use this method:
- Turn off your phone completely.
- Press and hold the Power + Volume Down buttons simultaneously until the Bootloader screen appears.
- Use the Volume Down key to highlight Recovery Mode, then press Power to select.
- When the Android robot appears with a red exclamation, press and hold Power, then tap Volume Up once.
- Use the Volume buttons to highlight Wipe data/factory reset.
- Press Power to confirm.
- Select Factory data reset, then confirm again.
- Once done, select the Reboot system now.
The device will reboot, and the reset process will finish shortly.
Important Notes
- After reset, the device will ask for the previously synced Google account if Factory Reset Protection (FRP) is enabled. Make sure you know your Google login details.
- If you’re selling or giving away your phone, go to Settings > Accounts, select your account, and remove it before resetting to disable FRP.
- If your phone has an SD card, you may also want to format the SD card separately to erase its data.
Factory Reset FAQ
Will a factory reset remove my Google account?
Yes, but if FRP is on, you’ll still need to log in again after reset.
How long does a reset take?
Usually around 5–10 minutes, depending on device and storage usage.
Will resetting fix app crashes and slowness?
In most cases, yes—it removes corrupted files and restores factory performance.
Is this the same as a hard reset?
Yes. “Factory reset” and “hard reset” are often used interchangeably.
Can I reset a Motorola phone without using buttons?
Only if the phone is accessible—then you can reset through Settings.
Factory resetting your Motorola phone is a safe and effective way to fix problems, erase sensitive data, or prepare it for a new user. Whether you’re doing it through the Settings menu or Recovery Mode, following the proper steps will ensure a smooth, secure reset process.