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Printer Error Codes

Cryptic codes decoded. Every entry includes a plain-English explanation and a fix verified through hands-on testing — not copied from a support forum.

HP Errors
CodeMeaningFix
0x97 Fatal carriage error — internal hardware fault Power off completely, disconnect for 60 seconds, reconnect and restart. If the error returns immediately, the carriage motor has failed and the unit requires servicing.
59.F0 Laser beam detection error Check that all print cartridges are fully seated. Perform a hard reset by holding the power button for 10 seconds. If it persists, the laser scanner assembly may need replacement.
E3 Paper jam detected — door or feed path Open all doors, carefully remove any jammed paper (pull in the direction of travel, not against it), and close firmly. Check the rear access panel is fully latched.
0xc19a0013 Ink system failure Remove all cartridges, power off, wait 2 minutes, then reinstall each cartridge firmly. If any cartridge contacts look dirty, clean gently with a dry lint-free cloth.
59.30 Fuser temperature error Allow the printer to cool for 10 minutes before restarting. If the error continues, the fuser assembly is failing and will need to be replaced.
Epson Errors
CodeMeaningFix
5B00 Ink pad saturated — end of service life indicator The internal waste ink pads have reached capacity. Reset the counter using Epson's service utility (search for your model's reset tool). The pads themselves should be replaced or the printer serviced.
0xF1 Mechanical fault — carriage obstruction Power off, open the scanner lid and check the carriage path for any foreign objects or paper fragments. Move the carriage manually to check for resistance, then power back on.
E-01 Paper jam or feed failure Remove all paper from the tray, power off, then slowly pull any jammed paper out through the rear. Fan paper before reloading and ensure the stack is within capacity limits.
W-01 Low ink warning — one or more cartridges nearly empty This is a warning, not an error. You can continue printing until ink is fully exhausted. Replace the indicated cartridge when convenient — the printer will specify which colour.
I-60 Scanner initialisation failure Ensure the scanner lid is closed fully and the transportation lock (if fitted) is disengaged. Perform a full power cycle. If the issue persists, the scanner unit may require servicing.
Canon Errors
CodeMeaningFix
B200 Print head temperature out of range — hardware fault Power off completely. Open the lid, move the cartridge cradle to the centre, then close without switching on. Hold the Stop button, press Power, and release both. This resets the print head. If the error returns within minutes, the print head assembly has failed.
5100 Carriage error — path obstruction Open the lid and check carefully for any paper scraps, dust build-up, or foreign objects in the carriage path. Clean gently with a dry cloth. Do not force the carriage manually.
6000 Paper jam detected Open all access panels and remove jammed paper slowly, pulling in the direction the paper travels. Check both the front tray and rear access cover. Reload paper flat and within tray capacity.
1401 / 1403 Ink cartridge not recognised Remove the cartridge, clean the gold contacts on both cartridge and cradle with a lightly damp cloth, allow to dry, then reinstall firmly. If the error continues, the cartridge may be faulty or incompatible with this model.
6500 Scanner unit open or not correctly closed Ensure the scanner lid is pressed down firmly until it clicks. Check nothing is obstructing the hinge. Perform a power cycle after confirming the unit is fully closed.
Brother Errors
CodeMeaningFix
Unable to Print 50 Drum unit error — end of drum life or detection fault Open the front cover, remove the drum and toner unit, reinstall firmly, and close the cover. If the drum counter hasn't been reset after replacing the drum, do so via the menu: Settings → Machine Info → Reset Parts Life.
No Paper Paper tray empty or paper not feeding correctly Fan the paper stack and reload, ensuring it's seated flat and below the maximum fill line. Check the paper guides are set to match the paper width exactly — too loose causes feed errors.
Cover Open Front or rear access cover not fully closed Check all covers are pressed firmly shut, including the rear cover. Look for any paper fragments caught in the door seam that might prevent it from closing fully.
Toner Low Toner cartridge approaching end of life This is an advisory warning. You can continue printing. Gently rock the toner cartridge side-to-side to redistribute remaining toner and extend the yield. Replace when print quality drops.
Unable to Scan 46 Waste toner box full The waste toner box must be replaced. This is a consumable component. Locate the box (usually at the front or side of the unit) and replace it with a compatible unit for your specific model number.