TWRP (Team Win Recovery Project), the “Failed to mount /data (Invalid argument)” error, is a common but irritating problem that Android users can run into while they are in recovery mode with their computers by flashing Android versions, creating backups, and wiping data.
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This mistake simply means that the TWRP cannot find the data partition where the apps, your personal files, and settings are stored.
In this article, we take an in-depth look at the reasons and effective solutions in order to fix the problem.
What does this error mean?
The /data partition is an essential part of the Android file system. This is where all the user-related information like contacts, messages, call logs, and other data are stored. Furthermore, the inability of the TWRP to mount the partition and consequently showing the “Invalid argument” error is a clear sign of a mismatch or corruption in the file system, encryption, or some other related configurations.
Common Causes
File System Corruption: The file system on the /data partition getting corrupted is the main reason, it usually gets interrupted during a read/write operation, improper shutdown, or flashing of the wrong firmware files.
Encryption Issues: It is likely that the whole device is encrypted, a common thing on modern Android devices; besides, TWRP requires the right decryption key to facilitate the /data partition access. Using incorrect or missing keys can be the source of the issue.
Incorrect TWRP Version: Trampling with the TWRP version for your device can result in mounting problems. You might have used an outdated or incompatible version of TWRP.
Damaged Partition Table: Anchoring the partition table poorly can lead to incorrect identification and mounting of the /data partition by the TWRP.
Storage Issues: In some cases, the problem can arise from a damaged device storage (eMMC or UFS) which causes the failure in mounting the data partition.
Troubleshooting Steps
How to fix the “Failed to mount /data (Invalid argument)” error in TWRP?
Try a Different TWRP Version: Make sure the developers of TWRP have released a version that is compatible with your device and avail it to your computer. Get it from a recognized source (e.g. the official TWRP website or the XDA Developers forum). Otherwise, if the current TWRP version you have is the most recent, you might want to flash a working older version that might be the futile adventures of new TWRP builds.
Use adb Commands (Advanced): If you are using ADB (Android Debug Bridge) setup on your PC, you can try entering some adb commands within TWRP. Start with a TWRP boot and then attach your device to your computer. Get to a command prompt or terminal on your computer and go to the directory where you have ADB got installed.
Try these Commands
adb shell twrp fix_permissions
The command fixes the file permissions which can help you solve the mounting errors that you are currently facing.
adb shell e2fsck -y /dev/block/mmcblk0p[partition_number] (substitute [partition_number] with the actual partition number of your /data partition.
Get it with adb shell ls -l /dev/block/platform/soc/*.mmc/by-name. This command is a filesystem check and repair. Do it with care since it can corrupt data if it is very bad.)
Format the Data Partition (Data Loss!): Attention: All of the information on your device (apps, photos, videos, and other files) will be wiped off. It is recommended to do this only if you have the backups or you are willing to lose your data. Click on Wipe > Format Data in TWRP. Type “yes” to confirm. This method will format the /data partition and it will create a new file system.
Change File System (Advanced, Data Loss!): Attention: It is important to know that this will also erase all your data, so think twice before doing it. In TWRP, go to Wipe > Advanced Wipe.1 Choose the “Data” partition. Then, click “Repair or Change File System” and then you may try to change the file system to ext4 or f2fs (if your device supports it).
Sometimes, this can solve compatibility problems with the file system.
Re-flash Stock Firmware: If none of the previously mentioned steps were successful in solving the problem, downloading and re-flashing stock firmware is the most recommended way for you. It will bring your device back to its initial state and replace any corrupted system files. The process implies you install the appropriate firmware for your device model and use a flashing utility like Odin (Samsung), MiFlash (Xiaomi, or similar applications for other brands).
Check for Hardware Issues: If there is still no solution after re-flashing the stock firmware, it may be the storage device that has a defect. In this case, it is the manufacturer of the device, or you can take it to a repair technician who would be the right person to find the hardware problem.
Backups: Prior to TWRP operations such as formatting or switching of file system, it is mandatory to perform a backup of your important data to avoid potential loss.
Device Specifics: Keep in mind that the given commands and procedures may slightly vary according to the type of your device. Look for your manufacturer’s official forum or guides where you can find even more tailored instructions.
Encryption: The very first step comes in the form of formatting when you need to remove encryption from the data partition so you can install your custom ROMs or carry out other endeavors.
ADB Setup: Beforehand, you should be advised that ADB and Fastboot configuration requires a certain level of technical knowledge. Follow only trustworthy tutorials to avoid misconfigurations.
Example of e2fsck command (Important!) The correct partition number of the /data partition is an essential point. You may use the command adb shell ls -l /dev/block/platform/soc/*.mmc/by-name (or something similar) to view a list of block devices by name.
Look for the partition which has a similar name as “userdata”.
The corresponding device (e.g., /dev/block/mmcblk0p27) will give you the partition number (27 in this example).
Then you would use the command: adb shell e2fsck -y /dev/block/mmcblk0p27
By going through these troubleshooting methods, you will likely ace the battle over Failed to mount /data (Invalid argument) error in TWRP and hence gain the freedom to access your device’s data partition.
In case you are still facing problems and being stuck it is recommended to take help from experienced users in online forums or communities.
