Why can't I clear cache?

[mrjspeed]

So my Moto X (2014) has been a little slow lately. I decided that I'd try and clear the cache for the first time seeing as how I've encountered that recommendation several times here on the site. I've never done it, even after upgrading to 5.0.

Today I tried it and it just got stuck on "Formatting /cache..." for about 10 minutes before I decided just to reboot and try again. I've cleared cache on several other devices before and it's usually very very quick. After a reboot, same thing with the exception of these error messages:


Has anyone experienced this? I gave up and just booted into the OS. The phone is working ok but I don't think my cache is cleared. I have a 32GB Pure Edition. No root or custom ROMs or anything.

 

[Golfdriver97]

The kernel might be slow in formatting the /cache partition. My Nex5 takes about 10-15 minutes. You can do a partial cache clear in Settings>storage. Click the cache part, and it will ask if you want to clear it.

 

[itinj6]

It does take some time for the cache wipe to complete. Possibly in excess of 10 minutes if I recall correctly. I would reboot and try it again and just try to have a little patience. Not sure why the error messages though.

 

[mrjspeed]

Embarrassed. I tried it again and it finished. I timed it and it took 7 minutes. Thanks!

 

[VidJunky]

The error messages were likely due to the way you ended the session. I'm assuming you held the power button until the device turned off? These devices are mini computers and like a computer force quiting or powering off the device before it has finished a process doesn't allow it to do all of the normal stuff it would do during a controlled power down. As Golfdriver suggested give it a bit more time, and if it truly freezes then explore other avenues. There are several apps at the PS that may help you clear the cache if you feel the stock process is failing.