Macbook 10.6.7 won't go to safemode

Just purchased used MB had fresh install of 10.6 ran software updates. And started checking into system, disk utility showed numerous repairs, but the issue I am confused about is: when I hold down the shift key to restart in safe mode it seems to do a normal restart, which is really fast. I do not get the screen showing it is in safemode. So, my question is, why wont it restart in safemode?
I am not that knowledgable past these steps, so simple terms would really help.

13.3" MB 2 GHz Mac OS X (10.6.7)

Welcome to Mac-Forums
When are you holding the shift key down?
You should be pressing it just after you hear the startup chime and holding it down until safe mode starts, if you press it down when the Apple Logo shows it's too late.

Hope this helps
- Simon

Thank you for you input. I have tried pressing it before the chime and right after the chime. Also I have tried immediately after clicking restart. I have used the same technique on all my other Macs.

You may need to do a shut-down rather than a restart. Shut it down, leave it for a few seconds then press the power button and follow my instructions above.

Hope this helps

- Simon

Ok I will try that! Thank you!

It still did not work.

Im thinking it could have something to do with the Update. 10.6.7 is reporting some problems.

If you have only done a recent install of the OS, i would do another install then go and download the 10.6.6 Combo Update. NOT VIA SOFTWARE UPDATE !!!! . . . . I had problems on the w/end with 10.6.7 and have gone back to 10.6.6
I cant find anything specific out there but someone has only been able to boot into safe mode after the update . . .

If others cant come up with a solution then this is what i would be doing
Im not really sure if a update *could* stuff up Safe Mode Boot up but it is something to think about if al else fails.

Cheers

Just something else to think about, does the machine have an EFI passcode set on it? If so this makes sure that you cannot zap PRAM/ NVRAM or enter Single User Mode or Safe Mode.

- Simon

If it had a firmware password set, it would display an icon depicting a lock when attempting to enter Safe Boot.

How do I check for a EFI Password?
Thank you