Printer Error Codes Explained: HP, Canon, Epson, and Brother

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Printer error codes come in a lot of forms: a two-character code on a small LCD screen, a blinking light pattern, or a plain-language message on a touchscreen. None of them are self-explanatory unless you already know the shorthand. This guide translates the error codes we get asked about most, organized by brand, so you can go straight to the fix. It's part of our full Printer Troubleshooting Center.

The Short Answer

Error codes almost always fall into one of three buckets: a cartridge or toner problem, a paper jam or carriage obstruction, or a hardware fault that needs service. Find your brand below, match the code, and follow the linked fix.

HP Error Codes

On HP DeskJet, ENVY, and OfficeJet models, error codes often show as a blinking light pattern rather than text:

  • E1 / E2 — A cartridge is missing, incompatible, or has a fault. Reseat or replace the cartridge.
  • E3 / E4 — The print carriage is jammed or there's paper stuck in the path. Clear any visible paper and gently check the carriage can move freely.
  • E5 / E6 — A generic hardware error. Power cycle the printer; if it returns, it may need service.
  • Er/04, Er/05, Er/06 (HP LaserJet MFP) — Paper jam codes at different points in the paper path.

Source: HP's official blinking lights and error codes guide. If your code points to a cartridge problem, our HP OfficeJet ink issues guide covers cartridge fixes that apply across most HP models, and our HP printer reset guide covers a full reset if the code won't clear.

Canon Error Codes

Canon PIXMA and MAXIFY printers show numeric or letter-number error codes on the display or via blinking lights:

  • B200 / B201–B207 — The print head has a communication failure or is overheating. Unplug the printer, let it cool for 30 minutes, then reseat the cartridges before restarting.
  • 5100 — The print carriage is jammed, blocked by a foreign object, or an ink tank isn't seated correctly. Open the cover and check the carriage path.
  • 5B00 / 5B01 — The waste ink absorber is full. This isn't user-serviceable and typically requires a repair or replacement.

These are documented in Canon's official knowledge base articles for each code. If the code clears but print quality is still off afterward, our Canon print head cleaning guide is the next step.

Epson Error Codes

Epson printers most commonly show one of two messages:

  • "The ink pad is at the end of its service life" — This refers to internal absorbent pads that soak up waste ink during cleaning cycles. They aren't user-replaceable on most consumer models, so this message means the printer needs Epson service or replacement.
  • E-01 or a generic "Printer Error" — Turn the printer off and back on, check for a hidden paper jam, and contact Epson support if the message persists.

If you're seeing blank pages or missing lines rather than a coded error, see our guides on printer printing blank pages and fixing missing lines on printouts.

Brother Error Codes

Brother laser and inkjet models tend to show plain-language errors on their LCD rather than numeric codes, but a few specific issues come up often:

Still Seeing the Code After Restarting?

If the code keeps coming back after a power cycle, the underlying issue may be broader than a single error message. These guides cover the next layer of troubleshooting:

If It's Time to Replace It

Some error codes, like a full waste ink absorber or a repeated hardware fault, point to a printer that's reached the end of its practical life. Prices and stock change often; as an Amazon Associate, Castle Ink earns from qualifying purchases.

The Epson EcoTank ET-2980 (check price on Amazon) skips traditional cartridges entirely, which eliminates several of the error codes on this page from ever coming up in the first place.

Written and reviewed by William Elward — Founder of Castle Ink, 20+ years in the printer & imaging supplies industry.

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Written and reviewed by — Castle Ink CEO since 2005; more than 20 years of experience in the printer supplies and e-commerce industry..

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