Common Printer Error Codes
HP Printer Error Codes
Error 0x61011bed / 0x610000f6
What it means: Cartridge problem detected
Quick fix: Remove and reinstall cartridges, ensuring they click into place
Replace cartridge if: Error persists after reinstalling and cleaning contacts
Error 0xc19a0003
What it means: Ink system failure, usually low/empty cartridges
Quick fix: Check ink levels in printer software
Replace cartridge if: Ink levels show empty or very low
Blinking Power Light
What it means: Paper jam or cartridge issue
Quick fix: Clear any paper jams, check cartridge installation
Replace cartridge if: Cartridges are genuinely empty (not just showing low)
Canon Printer Error Codes
Error 5100
What it means: Print head carriage is stuck or obstructed
Quick fix: Turn off printer, gently move print head left and right
Replace cartridge if: Cartridge is physically damaged or leaking
Error E02/E03
What it means: Paper jam or feed issue
Quick fix: Remove all paper, check for torn pieces, reload properly
Replace cartridge if: Not cartridge-related unless cartridge is blocking mechanism
Support Code 1403
What it means: Ink cartridge not recognized
Quick fix: Remove cartridge, clean contacts with dry cloth, reinstall
Replace cartridge if: Cartridge contacts are damaged or chip is faulty
Epson Printer Error Codes
Red Light Flashing
What it means: Usually indicates low ink or cartridge issue
Quick fix: Check which cartridge light is flashing
Replace cartridge if: Specific cartridge light indicates empty status
Error 0x9a
What it means: Cartridge recognition problem
Quick fix: Turn printer off for 10 seconds, restart, reseat cartridges
Replace cartridge if: Cartridge chip is damaged or incompatible
“Ink Pads Full” Message
What it means: Waste ink pads need professional service
Quick fix: This requires professional servicing, not cartridge replacement
Replace cartridge if: Not cartridge-related
Brother Printer Error Codes
“Replace Ink” Message
What it means: Cartridge is empty or very low
Quick fix: Check actual ink levels by looking at cartridge
Replace cartridge if: Cartridge is genuinely empty (Brother can be overly cautious)
“Ink Absorber Full”
What it means: Internal ink absorber needs replacement
Quick fix: Professional service required
Replace cartridge if: Not cartridge-related
Print Quality Issues
What it means: Could be low ink, clogged nozzles, or cartridge problem
Quick fix: Run printer cleaning cycle 2-3 times
Replace cartridge if: Cleaning doesn’t improve quality and cartridge is old
General Troubleshooting Steps
Before Replacing Any Cartridge:
- Turn printer off and on again (solves 30% of issues)
- Check cartridge installation – remove and reinstall firmly
- Clean cartridge contacts with lint-free cloth
- Run printer’s built-in cleaning cycle
- Check if cartridge is actually empty vs. just showing low
When to Definitely Replace:
Cartridge is physically damaged or leaking
Print quality remains poor after cleaning cycles
Cartridge is genuinely empty (not just low warning)
Error persists after all troubleshooting steps