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Unable to Update Local Ref on Git Pull: 4 Ways to Fix it
Optimize the directory and check for bad reference
2 min. read
Updated onFebruary 22, 2024
updated onFebruary 22, 2024
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Key notes
Many users reported getting theunable to update local referror when executing the GitPullorGit Pushcommand.
This usually happens due to a mismatch in the commit IDs or due to permission issues when the local repository is created as a different user.
How do I fix the unable to update local ref error?
Before we try more complex solutions, try restarting your PC and ensuring that you can access project files. Also, keep Git updated and check the names of the branches for mismatches.
1. Optimize the local directory
The first command cleans up the unnecessary files. It’s recommended to run it in each repository for optimal disk usage and better performance.
The second,remote prune, command removes the old, unused remote-tracking branches.
Remember, you may have to run the second command more than once to fix theunable to update local referror.
2. Update the reference
Here,[branch name]refers to the branch that’s throwing the error due to aCommit IDmismatch. Once done, you can continue with theGit PullorGit Pushcommand.
3. Check for a bad reference
4. Delete the corrupt or broken references after a BSOD
You can also access them by navigating to:%repo_root%/.git/refs/remotes/origin/some/branch
One of these solutions should help fix theunable to update local refGit error. Remember, there are several underlying causes, but in most cases, thegit prunecommand should do the trick! It works for 7 out of 10 users.
A similar set of fixes works with theNot possible to fast-forward, abortingerror. This isn’t the only issue you can encounter, and users reportedGitHub Desktop not opening, but we covered that in another guide.
For any queries or to share what worked for you, drop a comment below.
Kazim Ali Alvi
Windows Hardware Expert
Kazim has always been fond of technology, be it scrolling through the settings on his iPhone, Android device, or Windows PC. He’s specialized in hardware devices, always ready to remove a screw or two to find out the real cause of a problem.
Long-time Windows user, Kazim is ready to provide a solution for your every software & hardware error on Windows 11, Windows 10 and any previous iteration. He’s also one of our experts in Networking & Security.
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Kazim Ali Alvi
Windows Hardware Expert
Kazim is specialized in hardware devices, always ready to remove a screw or two to find out the real cause of a problem.
