"Your computer is disabled, try again in X minutes" PROBLEM

[Audit13]

Sorry but I'm not sure how removing the DVD drive from a Mac caused the OP's issue.

 

[Suveer83]

I got an iMac 21.5 2010 model in today and it had same issue, Your computer is disabled... No passcode prompt after waiting... Here's how I fixed it; I booted to an old 10.6 original install disk. Went to Utilities, Firmware Password Reset. It said there was no password set, so I set a simple one, rebooted, then I could use that password to get past the lock screen when holding Option on startup. I booted to the 10.6 disk again, turn off the firmware password, rebooted, then did 3 consecutive PRAM resets. I had previously erased the HD , thinking that was part of my issue, but it was not, so I used option again and booted to my USB El Cap drive and installed without a hitch! Hope it helps! J

Mine is a 2017 MBP which is stuck with padlock screen. I was selling it to a person, while erasing it from iCloud it asked me to set some passcode which I didn’t paid attention. I had set it something and forgot it now. Now I’m stuck with padlock, can you please help me with how to reset it now. There’s no data in it hence I’m ok to format and reinstall Mac OS as well if there’s an option. I can’t fix it in Apple store since I don’t have the purchase receipt as I bought it from someone else in the past.

Please help me what are my options.

PS: the laptop still shows on my FindmyPhone screen as an erased laptop with no options other than to make a sound. All other options are disabled.

 

[DeltaMac]

Boot to a USB macOS installer. Try to erase the drive from Disk Utility.
DON'T set any passwords, and shut off the MBPro when you get to the new user setup screen. Let the new owner set that up the way they want.
If you get the padlock screen when trying to select that USB boot (or any other bootable drive), then you have (unfortunately) set a firmware password.
The only folks that can help you with that are at the Apple store - and you have to prove ownership to Apple's satisfaction.
If not - you could sell it for parts, and get something out of it.

 

[Suveer83]

Boot to a USB macOS installer. Try to erase the drive from Disk Utility.
DON'T set any passwords, and shut off the MBPro when you get to the new user setup screen. Let the new owner set that up the way they want.
If you get the padlock screen when trying to select that USB boot (or any other bootable drive), then you have (unfortunately) set a firmware password.
The only folks that can help you with that are at the Apple store - and you have to prove ownership to Apple's satisfaction.
If not - you could sell it for parts, and get something out of it.

Since it was logged in with my apple id before they should be able to help me right without proof of purchase. its also listed under my devices in appleid.apple.com
I don't know why they can't use that as proof. this could happen to the original owner also sometimes, they can loose the receipt or what if some one gifts them without any receipt.
I'm having an appointment with store on monday evening. Keeping fingers crossed.