How to Fix Canon Printer in Error State
A Canon printer in error state can be frustrating, disrupting your work or daily printing needs. This issue may arise due to connectivity problems, outdated drivers, paper jams, hardware malfunctions, or software conflicts. This comprehensive guide will walk you through troubleshooting and resolving the error state in your Canon printer.
Step 1: Check the Printer Connection
A poor connection between your printer and computer can trigger an error state. Follow these steps to ensure a stable connection:
For USB Connection:
-
Check if the USB cable is properly connected to the printer and computer.
-
Try using a different USB port.
-
Replace the USB cable if it's damaged.
For Wireless Connection:
-
Ensure that the WiFi router is functioning properly.
-
Verify that your Canon printer is connected to the correct network.
-
Restart the router, printer, and computer.
-
If necessary, reconnect the printer to WiFi.
For Wired (Ethernet) Connection:
-
Ensure that the Ethernet cable is properly plugged into the printer and router.
-
Check if the router is assigning an IP address to the printer.
Step 2: Restart Your Devices
Restarting your printer and computer can resolve minor glitches.
-
Turn off your Canon printer and unplug it from the power source.
-
Restart your computer.
-
After a few minutes, plug the printer back in and power it on.
-
Try printing a document to check if the issue is resolved.
Step 3: Set Canon Printer as Default
If your Canon printer is not set as the default printer, it may not function correctly.
For Windows Users:
-
Go to Control Panel > Devices and Printers.
-
Right-click on your Canon printer.
-
Click Set as Default Printer.
-
Try printing a test page.
For Mac Users:
-
Go to System Preferences > Printers & Scanners.
-
Select your Canon printer from the list.
-
Click Set as Default.
Step 4: Check Printer Status and Clear Print Queue
A stuck print job can cause an error state.
For Windows Users:
-
Open Control Panel > Devices and Printers.
-
Right-click on your Canon printer and select See what's printing.
-
Click Printer > Cancel All Documents.
-
Restart the printer and try printing again.
For Mac Users:
-
Open System Preferences > Printers & Scanners.
-
Select your Canon printer.
-
Click Open Print Queue and Cancel all print jobs.
-
Restart the printer and try printing.
Step 5: Update or Reinstall Printer Drivers
Outdated or corrupt printer drivers can cause the error state issue.
Update Canon Printer Drivers (Windows)
-
Open Device Manager.
-
Expand Printers.
-
Right-click on your Canon printer and select Update Driver.
-
Choose Search automatically for drivers.
-
Restart your computer after updating.
Update Canon Printer Drivers (Mac)
-
Open System Preferences > Printers & Scanners.
-
Select your Canon printer and click Remove (-).
-
Download the latest drivers from ij.start.canon.
-
Install the drivers and add the printer again.
Step 6: Check for Paper Jams
A paper jam can put your Canon printer in an error state.
-
Open the paper tray and output cover.
-
Check for any jammed paper and remove it carefully.
-
Close all covers properly.
-
Restart the printer and try printing.
Step 7: Check Ink Levels and Cartridges
Low ink levels or improperly installed cartridges can cause errors.
-
Open the printer cover and check the ink cartridges.
-
Replace any empty or low cartridges.
-
Ensure cartridges are installed correctly.
-
Run a printer nozzle check and cleaning cycle.
Step 8: Disable Use Printer Offline Mode
If the printer is set to offline mode, it won't print.
-
Open Control Panel > Devices and Printers.
-
Right-click on your Canon printer and select See what's printing.
-
Click Printer and uncheck Use Printer Offline.
-
Try printing again.
Step 9: Run Windows Printer Troubleshooter
Windows has a built-in troubleshooting tool to fix printer errors.
-
Open Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
-
Click on Additional Troubleshooters.
-
Select Printer and click Run the Troubleshooter.
-
Follow the on-screen instructions.
Step 10: Reset Your Canon Printer
If all else fails, resetting the printer to factory settings can resolve persistent issues.
-
Press the Setup button on the printer.
-
Navigate to Device Settings.
-
Select Reset Settings and choose Reset All.
-
Confirm and restart the printer.
Conclusion
A Canon printer in error state can be resolved by following these troubleshooting steps. Start with checking the connections, restarting the printer, clearing the print queue, updating drivers, and resetting the printer if needed. These solutions will help restore your printer to working condition, ensuring smooth and efficient printing operations.