Brom Disabled By Efuse 0x146 [UPDATED]

: A one-time programmable hardware fuse that, once "blown" (set), permanently changes the chip's security configuration. Disabled Status

Tools like , CM2MTK , or commercial boxes (Infinity CM2, Miracle Thunder) sometimes have built-in brute-force or authentication bypass scripts. These exploit known vulnerabilities in the BROM protocol before the eFuse check is fully enforced. For example, sending a specific sequence of USB commands might trick the BROM into thinking the debug fuse is still intact. However, modern chips have patched most of these exploits.

This is the very first code that runs when an MTK processor powers on. It resides in the chip hardware itself and cannot be modified. It's used for flashing firmware via tools like SP Flash Tool when the phone is dead or has no operating system.

When you see the error , it means the smartphone's security system (often implemented by the manufacturer or carrier) has physically and permanently disabled the low-level boot mode. brom disabled by efuse 0x146

Because this is a hardware-level fuse, you cannot "reset" the 0x146 status. However, you may still be able to service the device using these methods: 1. Use Preloader Mode Since BROM is disabled, you must use .

If you are seeing this error in your SP Flash Tool, UBoot logs, or UART terminal, you have encountered MediaTek’s most aggressive anti-rollback and anti-exploit mechanism to date. This article explains what this error means, how it works at the silicon level, why 0x146 is significant, and whether there is any way to bypass it.

You will need to short a specific pin on the motherboard (called a ) to the ground shield using metallic tweezers while plugging in the USB cable. : A one-time programmable hardware fuse that, once

"When chip designers build a System-on-Chip, they put a Boot ROM inside. That ROM contains the first-stage bootloader—the code that initializes security engines, checks for valid firmware, and loads the next stage from flash or USB.

From the repair community’s perspective, this is often seen as a deliberate measure. A blown BROM does not just stop malicious activity; it also prevents legitimate repair technicians from recovering devices that might otherwise be salvageable. In many forum threads, technicians express frustration that a simple FRP removal or IMEI repair has become impossible without manufacturer authorisation.

Thus, translates to: "BROM download mode permanently disabled by eFuse configuration." For example, sending a specific sequence of USB

For years, security researchers exploited the BROM download mode to bypass signature checks, unbrick devices, and gain low-level access. These exploits (e.g., mtk-su , brom-exploit , kamakiri , mt8163 BROM bugs) worked because the BROM would accept authenticated preloader from the host PC over USB.

Shorting test points may still lead to the same 0x146 error if the fuse is global.

Some devices leave Preloader mode enabled even with BROM disabled. Try:

Some devices require an official service account to flash via "Download Mode" or "EDL" instead of BROM.