cannot re-use a name that is still in use ☸️ Kubernetes

Error: INSTALLATION FAILED: cannot re-use a name that is still in use

helm install was run with a release name that already exists in the namespace (even a failed one).

Seen on: Kubernetes

Meaning

Helm keeps release history as Secrets. A failed earlier install leaves the name taken. Use helm upgrade --install for idempotent deploys, or uninstall the failed release.

Common causes

  • Release already installed (helm install run twice)
  • Earlier install failed and left a failed release
  • Same release name used in CI on every run

⚡ Quick fix

  1. Use helm upgrade --install
  2. helm list -a to see failed releases, then helm uninstall
  3. Choose a different release name

Detailed fix by platform

Helm

  1. bash
    helm list -a -n app
helm upgrade --install web ./chart -n app --create-namespace

How to diagnose

  1. Releases — helm list -a -n ns (status)
  2. Namespace — Correct -n?

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