To fix a Canon printer error, note the complete code and your exact printer model, then look up that combination in Canon’s Error Code Finder or the model’s manual and support page. Follow only the instructions Canon gives for that model and code. If you can’t find the code or the recommended step doesn’t work, use Canon’s model-specific support options rather than trying a generic reset.
Start with the code and exact model
- Copy the whole error. Record every letter, number, and accompanying message shown on the printer’s LCD or LED, computer, or Canon app. Don’t assume the same code format appears on every model.
- Identify the printer. Find its complete model name on the device, its information screen, or its documentation. A series name alone may not be specific enough.
- Look up the code for that model. Select your printer in Canon’s U.S. Error Code Finder, or open its manual or support page. Canon Japan also describes a code- and model-based lookup process for inkjet printers; its guidance is intended for the Japanese market and support wording or availability may differ elsewhere: Canon Japan inkjet error guidance.
- Follow the matching instructions. Use the action listed for your specific model and code, then check whether the message clears.
- Escalate if needed. If the code is not listed, or the prescribed action does not resolve it, use the model’s manual, knowledge base, community, or Canon support route through the Error Code Finder.
Canon uses the term “support code” in documentation for the PIXMA G3270 and G3272, where it describes the number shown with an error message on the printer LCD or computer screen. That page’s code list and instructions apply to those named models, not every Canon printer: G3270/G3272 support-code information.
Why the printer model matters
Canon error codes do not form one universal dictionary with one fix for every printer. A code’s meaning and the display format can vary by model or series. Canon’s U.S. finder asks you to select the printer, and Canon’s published code lists are scoped to the devices named on their pages.
For that reason, don’t choose a fix just because a code looks familiar or appears in a search result for another Canon printer. Confirm that the instructions match your full model name. If your printer is not available in the U.S. finder, consult its manual or the support page for your market.
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- Compatible with TS3520/3522, TR4720/4722, TS3720/3722 inkjet printers.
- Value pack of 2 cartridges: PG-275 Black ink yields up to 100 pages, CL-276 color ink yields up to 100 pages.
- Canon Genuine Inks provide peak performance that is specifically designed for compatible Canon printers. The PG black ink cartridge produces crisp, sharp black text for your documents and the CL color cartridge produces accurate impressive color photos.
- Canon's FINE (Full-photolithography Inkjet Nozzle Engineering) technology utilizes 6,000 or more nozzles inside the print heads to provide greater efficiency, higher print precision and reliable accuracy in your photos and documents.
- Don’t be fooled by imposters - look for the Canon logo on all ink packaging to ensure you’re buying Genuine Canon Ink for outstanding quality and performance you can rely on.
Examples of model-specific Canon fixes
The following are examples from Canon’s LED error guide for the models covered by that page. They are not guaranteed meanings or remedies for every PIXMA, MAXIFY, imageCLASS, or other Canon device.
| Code in the cited guide | What Canon says it may mean | Action in that guide |
|---|---|---|
| E02 | Paper needs to be loaded. | Reload paper in the front tray and press Black or Color. |
| E03 | A paper jam may have occurred. | Remove jammed paper, load paper properly, then press Black or Color. |
| E04 | A FINE cartridge is not installed properly. | Check the cartridge locks and reinstall the cartridge if needed. |
These instructions come from Canon’s model-specific LED error guidance. Check the page for your own printer before trying the same steps.
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- [Compatible Printers]: Canon PIXMA TR8520, Canon PIXMA, TR7520, Canon PIXMA, TS9120, Canon PIXMA, TS8120, Canon TS6120
- Combined with Genuine Canon photo paper this ink protects your photos from fading for longer, thanks to the ChromaLife100 System.
- Genuine Canon inks provide optimal performance and offer exclusive access to Creative Park Premium content.
Does a cartridge error mean you need to buy a cartridge?
No—not automatically. In the cited LED guide, E04 calls for checking that a FINE cartridge is installed and locked correctly; it is not, by itself, an instruction to buy a replacement. Follow the troubleshooting steps for your model before purchasing a part.
Canon’s U.S. guidance for B200, B201, B202, B203, B204, and B205 is a separate, narrower case: it applies to Canon models with two cartridges. Canon says the print head built into one or both cartridges has overheated and suggests attempting cartridge replacement. Do not apply that explanation or recommendation to other Canon printers. First verify that your exact model is covered and identify the correct cartridge number using Canon’s B200-family guidance.
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- Compatible with TS3520/3522, TR4720/4722, TS3720/3722 inkjet printers.
- PG-275 Black ink yields up to 100 pages, CL-276 color ink yields up to 100 pages.
- Canon Genuine Inks provide peak performance that is specifically designed for compatible Canon printers. The PG black ink cartridge produces crisp, sharp black text for your documents and the CL color cartridge produces accurate, impressive color photos.
- Canon's FINE (Full-photolithography Inkjet Nozzle Engineering) technology utilizes 6,000 or more nozzles inside the print heads to provide greater efficiency, higher print precision and reliable accuracy in your photos and documents.
- Don’t be fooled by imposters - look for the Canon logo on all ink packaging to ensure you’re buying Genuine Canon Ink for outstanding quality and performance you can rely on.
What to do when the code stays on
- Confirm that you copied the complete code and selected the exact printer model, not merely a similar-looking series.
- Recheck the model-specific instructions and make sure you completed each step as written.
- If the code is absent from the lookup, or the listed action fails, move to the manual or Canon support route for your model.
- Avoid guessed reset sequences or repair steps taken from instructions for a different printer. Canon’s published guidance does not establish a universal reset or a single remedy for all Canon error codes.
Canon’s U.S. Error Code Finder links users to further resources, including manuals, a knowledge base, community, and support when the model or code is unavailable.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Compatible with iP2820, MX492, MG2420/2520/2920/2922/2924/3020/2525, TS3120/302/302a/202/4520/3320 inkjet printers.
- Value pack of 2 cartridges: PG-243 Black ink yields up to 100 pages, CL-244 color ink yields up to 100 pages.
- Canon Genuine Inks provide peak performance that is specifically designed for compatible Canon printers. The PG black ink cartridge produces crisp, sharp black text for your documents and the CL color cartridge produces accurate, impressive color photos.
- Canon's FINE (Full-photolithography Inkjet Nozzle Engineering) technology utilizes 6,000 or more nozzles inside the print heads to provide greater efficiency, higher print precision and reliable accuracy in your photos and documents.
- Don’t be fooled by imposters - look for the Canon logo on all ink packaging to ensure you’re buying Genuine Canon Ink for outstanding quality and performance you can rely on.
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- For Canon 245XL 246XL combo packs: Simply remove the protective tape and insert the cartridge into your Canon printer. It delivers great compatibility with your printer.
- For canon 245xl 246xl combo pack printers PIXMA TR4500, TR4522, TR4520, TS3322, TS3122, TS3120, TS3320, TS3300, TS202, TS302, MX492, MX490, MG2500, MG3022, MG2525, MG2522 MG2920, MG2420, MG2520, MG2922, MG3020, MG3029, MG2924, IP2820
- PG-245XL CL-246XL 245XL ink cartridge for Canon printers estimated high page yield: 500 pages per Pixma 245XL black ink cartridge , 400 pages per 246XL color ink cartridge (depends on printer and usage), suitable for school, home, and office printing.
- For canon ink 245 and 246 print bright and accurate colors to ensure that the print results are always clear and sharp. Use our inks to protect your printer and get long-lasting, high-quality prints.
- Leak-Proof Sealed Design: Each 245XL 246XL ink cartridge features a protective foil seal and snap-fit installation that prevents ink leakage during shipping or installation. The integrated construction eliminates the connection points where traditional ink tanks might leak or drip. Arrives vacuum-sealed to preserve ink freshness—store unopened cartridges for up to 24 months without quality degradation, perfect for keeping spares on hand for busy school seasons or tax time.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
