Canon printer errors can stop your printing at the worst possible moment. At PrintFixQuick, we help people across the UK understand what their Canon printer error codes mean and how to fix them. Maybe a code has appeared on the screen or your computer, or the orange light won't stop flashing. The good news is that most Canon printer errors point to something simple: paper, ink, or a cartridge that isn't seated properly.
This guide explains each common Canon printer error and Canon support code in plain English, what to try first, and which errors mean it's time to stop and get help. If your printer shows as offline rather than displaying a code, read our guide on why a Canon printer keeps going offline.
What does a Canon error code mean?
It's a number shown on the printer's display or your computer when something stops the printer working. Codes starting with 1 usually mean paper or ink problems you can fix yourself, such as 1300 (paper jam) or 1688 (ink has run out). Codes like 5100, 5200, 5B00 or B200 point to internal faults that may need servicing.
Common Canon Printer Error Codes at a Glance
Find the Canon support code shown on your printer or computer below. Codes vary slightly between models, so if yours isn't listed, check the online manual for your model.
| Support code | What it usually means | Can you fix it yourself? |
|---|---|---|
| 1000 | No paper detected | Yes |
| 1300 | Paper jam | Yes |
| 1401 | Cartridge not installed | Yes |
| 1403 / 1485 | Wrong or incompatible cartridge | Yes |
| 1682 / 1684 | Cartridge not recognised | Usually |
| 1686 / 1688 | Ink low or run out | Yes |
| 1702 / 1704 / 1712 / 1714 | Ink absorber almost full | Short term only |
| 5100 | Cartridge holder can't move | Sometimes |
| 5200 | Print head problem, often overheating | Sometimes |
| 5B00 / 5B02 and similar | Internal error, often ink absorber full | No |
| 6000 | Paper or object blocking the mechanism | Sometimes |
| B200 / B203 | Serious internal fault | No |
| E05 (on screen) | Cartridge problem | Yes |
Canon Printer Flashing Orange Light
Printers without a screen use the orange Alarm light instead of a code. Count the flashes before it pauses.
On many PIXMA models, 2 flashes means no paper, 3 means a paper jam, 4 or 5 means a cartridge problem, 8 means the ink absorber is almost full, and 16 means the ink has run out.
Patterns differ between models, so if the count doesn't match, search your model's manual for "alarm lamp flashes".
How to Fix the Most Common Canon Printer Errors
First, Try a Full Reset
Switch the printer off, unplug it from the wall and wait at least three minutes. Plug it back in, switch it on and let it finish its start-up noises before printing. This clears a surprising number of errors on its own.
Canon Paper Jam and Paper Errors (1000, 1300, 6000)
- To clear a Canon paper jam, switch the printer off before touching any paper.
- Pull jammed paper out slowly in the direction it normally feeds, using both hands.
- Check inside with a torch for torn scraps, as even a small piece can cause the error again.
- Reload a neat stack of plain A4 paper and print a test page.
Ink and Cartridge Errors (1401 to 1688, E05)
- Open the cover and wait for the cartridge holder to stop moving.
- Remove the cartridge and check all protective tape is off.
- Gently wipe the gold contacts with a dry, lint-free cloth.
- Push the cartridge back in firmly until it clicks, and check the cartridge number matches your model.
Refilled or non-genuine cartridges are sometimes not recognised, which can also cause these errors.
Support Codes 5100 and 5200
For 5100, switch off, open the cover and remove any packing tape, plastic clips or paper blocking the cartridge holder. For 5200, replace any empty cartridges and let the printer cool for ten minutes. If either code keeps returning, don't take the printer apart; get help instead.
Canon 5B00 Error and Ink Absorber Warnings
The ink absorber is a pad that collects waste ink. A 1700-series code means it is almost full, and you can usually press OK and keep printing for a while. A 5B00-series code means it is full and the printer will stop. This is a service job, so don't try to reset it yourself.
"Cannot Communicate with the Printer" on Canon
This Canon printer error appears on your computer when it loses its connection to the printer, often after a new router or Wi-Fi password. Restart the router, then the printer, then the computer. Check both are on the same Wi-Fi network, then remove and re-add the printer in your computer's printer settings. If it still won't rejoin your network, follow our Canon printer won't connect guide.
Canon Printer Not Responding
If your Canon printer is not responding and nothing happens when you print, open the print queue on your computer and cancel every waiting document. Make sure "Use printer offline" isn't ticked, restart the printer, and print a test page from the printer itself. If the test page works but your computer still gets no response, the driver usually needs reinstalling. Our Canon printer setup guide explains how.
When Canon Printer Errors Need a Technician
Some faults aren't safe to fix at home. Stop troubleshooting and get help if you see B200, B203 or a 5B00-series code, if 5100 or 5200 keeps coming back, or if the printer makes grinding noises. If the error started straight after a new router, Windows update or new computer, it's usually a settings or driver problem rather than a hardware fault.
If your printer is still under Canon's warranty, contact Canon first, as repairs may be free. For older printers, or for Wi-Fi, software and driver problems, our technicians can help remotely. You can find more fixes on our Canon printer help page and in our Canon printer guides.
Still seeing an error code? Speak to a friendly technician who will guide you through it step by step, with no jargon. Call 020 4628 1297 or request a callback.
PrintFixQuick is an independent support service and is not affiliated with, or endorsed by, Canon. Our support may involve a fee, agreed before any work starts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do I find the support code on my Canon printer?
On models with a screen, the support code appears on the printer's display. On models without a screen, it shows in the error message on your computer, and the orange light flashes a set number of times. Write down the code and your model number before you start troubleshooting, as fixes can differ between models.
How do I reset my Canon printer after an error?
Switch the printer off, unplug it from the wall for at least three minutes, then plug it back in and switch it on. This clears many temporary errors. If the same code appears again straight away, the cause still needs fixing, such as a paper jam, a cartridge problem or an internal fault.
What does the Canon 5B00 error mean?
Codes in the 5B00 range usually mean the ink absorber, a pad that collects waste ink, is full. The printer stops to prevent ink leaking inside. Replacing the absorber is a service job, so don't try to reset it yourself.
Can I fix Canon error B200 myself?
Usually not. B200 means an internal fault the printer can't diagnose on its own, often linked to the print head. Canon recommends contacting a service centre. Get advice before paying for repairs, as they can cost more than a new printer.
What does Canon code 5200 mean?
Support code 5200 is usually linked to the print head, often because it has overheated while printing with an empty cartridge. Switch the printer off, let it cool for ten minutes and replace any empty cartridges. If 5200 keeps returning after that, the print head may need replacing.
Why does my Canon printer say the cartridge isn't recognised?
Common causes are leftover protective tape, dirty contacts, a cartridge that hasn't clicked fully into place, or a refilled or non-genuine cartridge. Remove it, wipe the gold contacts gently with a dry cloth and push it back in firmly.
What does "cannot communicate with the printer" mean on a Canon?
It means your computer has lost its connection to the printer, usually because of a Wi-Fi change such as a new router or password. Restart the router, printer and computer, check they're on the same network, then remove and re-add the printer. Our Canon printer won't connect guide covers this step by step.
Why is my Canon printer flashing an orange light?
The orange light means the printer has found an error. Count the flashes before it pauses: on many PIXMA models, 2 flashes means no paper, 3 means a paper jam and 16 means the ink has run out. Patterns vary by model, so check your printer's manual if the count doesn't match the problem.
Are you the official Canon support service?
No. PrintFixQuick is an independent printer support service and isn't affiliated with Canon. If your printer is under warranty, contacting Canon may be free. We help with setup, Wi-Fi, driver and error problems on any Canon printer. See our printer support FAQs for how our service works.