How to Prevent and Fix Common Brother Inkjet Printer Errors

Brother Inkjet Printer Error Codes – A Common Frustration for Users

If you're a Brother inkjet printer owner, you've likely encountered an error code or two at some point. It could be something as simple as a paper jam or as perplexing as a printhead malfunction. These error codes can be frustrating, especially when you're in the middle of an important print job and need a quick solution. Navigating the technical jargon and troubleshooting these issues can seem overwhelming for many users.

The anxiety of not knowing what the error code means or how to fix it often adds to the stress. Maybe you’ve tried pressing random buttons, rebooting the printer, or even searching online forums without success, only to find temporary fixes that don’t seem to address the root cause. Whether you’re a home user trying to print a report for school or an office professional printing critical documents, encountering an error can cause unwanted delays, reduced productivity, and wasted time.

But don't worry! In this blog post, we’ll help you decode those frustrating Brother inkjet printer error codes. We’ll walk you through common error codes, what they mean, and most importantly, how you can fix them without the need for technical support. Our practical, easy-to-follow solutions will save you time and keep your printer running smoothly. By the end of this post, you’ll be able to handle these errors with confidence and get back to printing without hassle.

Most Common Brother Inkjet Printer Error Codes and Their Solutions

Brother inkjet printers, like many other devices, rely on a set of error codes to indicate specific issues. These codes serve as a quick way to identify the problem and help users take the appropriate steps to resolve it. While some error codes are straightforward and easy to fix, others may require a bit more troubleshooting.

Let’s dive into some of the most common Brother inkjet printer error codes, their meanings, and the simple solutions you can try to get your printer back to work.

1. Error Code: E50 – Print Head Not Installed Properly

What It Means:
The "E50" error usually means that the print head is either missing or has not been installed correctly. This can happen if the print head was removed for maintenance or cleaning but wasn’t seated properly during reinstallation.

How to Fix It:

• Turn off the printer and unplug it from the power source.

• Open the printer cover and check if the print head is installed properly.

• Gently remove and reinstall the print head to ensure it is securely in place.

• Printer turn on. The error should disappear if the print head is installed correctly.

2. Error Code: E51 – Defective Print Head

What It Means:
If you see the "E51" error code, your printer is telling you that the print head is defective and needs to be replaced. This can occur due to wear and tear or if the print head is clogged beyond repair.

How to Fix It:

• Turn off your printer and unplug it for a few minutes to reset it.

• Try to remove and reinstall the print head to see if that resolves the issue.

• If the error persists, you may need to replace the print head. You can contact Brother customer support or visit a service center for a replacement.

3. Error Code: E52 – No Print Head Installed

What It Means:
The "E52" error code indicates that the print head is not detected at all. This could happen if the print head was accidentally removed or if it’s not properly connected.

How to Fix It:

• Open the printer cover and check the print head area.

• Ensure the print head is correctly installed. If it’s missing, you’ll need to install a new one.

• Once installed, close the cover and restart your printer to see if the issue is resolved.

4. Error Code: E54 – Print Head Alignment Error

What It Means:
If you encounter the "E54" error, it means there’s an issue with the print head alignment. This can occur after a print head replacement or if the printer has been moved.

How to Fix It:

• Access the printer’s menu and perform the automatic print head alignment.

• Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the alignment process.

• If the problem persists, check for paper jams or other obstructions that might be causing the misalignment.

5. Error Code: E55 – Ink Absorber Full

What It Means:
The "E55" error means that the ink absorber, a part that collects excess ink, is full. When this happens, the printer can no longer function properly.

How to Fix It:

• Turn off the printer and unplug it.

• The ink absorber may need to be replaced or cleaned. For cleaning, you can contact Brother support for instructions.

• If you’re unable to clean it yourself, it’s recommended to take the printer to a service center for an ink absorber replacement.

6. Error Code: E61 – Paper Jam or Misfeed

What It Means:
The "E61" error is one of the most common issues with printers. It indicates that there is a paper jam or the paper has not fed correctly through the printer.

How to Fix It:

• Open the printer cover and check for any jammed paper.

• Carefully remove any stuck paper, making sure not to tear it inside the printer.

• Check the paper tray for proper alignment and make sure the paper is loaded correctly.

7. Error Code: E62 – Paper Feed Mechanism Error

What It Means:
If your printer displays the "E62" error, it means there’s a problem with the paper feed mechanism. This could be caused by a jam, faulty rollers, or an obstruction.

How to Fix It:

• Turn off the printer and unplug it.

• Open the printer and check for any visible obstructions in the paper feed path.

• Try gently cleaning the rollers with a lint-free cloth and make sure they’re free of dust or debris.

• Once you’ve cleared any blockages, turn the printer back on and test it.

8. Error Code: E63 – Ink Cartridge Not Installed Properly

What It Means:
The "E63" error typically happens when the ink cartridge is not installed correctly or the printer fails to recognize it.

How to Fix It:

• Open the printer door cover and check ink cartridges.

• Remove and reinstall the cartridges, ensuring they are seated correctly in their slots.

• If the issue continues, check for any protective tape that might still be on the cartridges or replace the cartridges if they are defective.

9. Error Code: E70 – Out of Paper

What It Means:
The "E70" error means that your printer is out of paper. This can happen if the paper tray is empty or the paper isn’t properly loaded.

How to Fix It:

• Load the paper tray with the correct paper size and type.

• Ensure the paper is loaded properly and aligned in the tray.

• Close the printer cover and try printing again.

Troubleshooting Advanced Brother Inkjet Printer Error Codes

While the common error codes we discussed in the previous section are typically easy to fix, there are times when more complex issues arise. These errors can stem from deeper mechanical or electrical problems within your printer. In this section, we'll go over some of the more advanced error codes you might encounter with your Brother inkjet printer, as well as troubleshooting steps to resolve them.

1. Error Code: U051 – Incorrect Ink Cartridge Installed

What It Means:
The "U051" error code indicates that the printer is detecting an ink cartridge that is either not compatible with your printer model or incorrectly installed. This error may also occur if the ink cartridge is missing or improperly inserted.

How to Fix It:

• Open the printer door cover and check ink cartridges.

• Ensure that the cartridges are the correct type for your specific Brother printer model.

• Remove the cartridges and reinstall them, ensuring they are properly seated in their designated slots.

• Ensure that the protective tape has been taken off the cartridges before you install them.

• If the issue persists, try replacing the ink cartridges with new ones to rule out any defects.

2. Error Code: U152 – Internal Parts Misaligned

What It Means:
The "U152" error means that some internal components of the printer, such as the printhead or other parts, have become misaligned. This could be due to a recent move, shock, or mechanical failure.

How to Fix It:

• Turn off the printer and unplug power cable for a few minutes.

• After waiting, power the printer back on to see if the error clears on its own.

• If the error persists, gently open the printer cover and check for any loose or misaligned parts. Be careful not to touch any internal components too forcefully.

• If you’re unable to realign the parts yourself, it may be necessary to contact Brother support or take the printer to a service center for professional repair.

3. Error Code: U161 – Ink Cartridge Not Detected

What It Means:
This error code, "U161," typically appears when the printer is not detecting one or more ink cartridges. It may be due to improper installation or issues with the cartridge’s chip.

How to Fix It:

• Open the printer cover and check the ink cartridges to ensure they are installed correctly.

• Try removing and reinstalling the cartridges, ensuring that the chips on the cartridges are properly aligned with the printer’s contacts.

• Clean the cartridge contacts using a soft, lint-free cloth to remove any dust or ink residue that might be blocking the connection.

• If the error continues, try replacing the cartridge with a known good one to see if the issue lies with the cartridge itself.

4. Error Code: E73 – Printer Unable to Connect to Network

What It Means:
The "E73" error typically occurs when your Brother printer is having trouble connecting to your network, whether it's via Wi-Fi or Ethernet. This error might appear if the printer was previously connected to a network and the connection is now lost.

How to Fix It:

• First, ensure that your Wi-Fi network is working properly and that your printer is within range of the router.

• Check if other devices can connect to the same network to confirm it's not a network-wide issue.

• On your printer’s control panel, navigate to the network settings and ensure it’s connected to the correct Wi-Fi network.

• If necessary, reset the network settings on the printer and reconnect it by entering the network password again.

• If you are using Ethernet, check the cables to ensure they are securely plugged in.

5. Error Code: E74 – Paper Feed Problem

What It Means:
The "E74" error indicates that there is a serious issue with the paper feed mechanism. It could be due to an internal paper jam, misfed paper, or a malfunctioning roller.

How to Fix It:

• Turn off the printer and unplug it to prevent any damage while troubleshooting.

• Open the printer’s cover and check the paper path for any visible obstructions. Remove any jammed or misfed paper.

• Use soft cloth slowly-slowly to clean the rollers.

• If the problem persists, check the printer’s settings for paper size and type to make sure they match the loaded paper.

6. Error Code: E75 – Scanner Malfunction

What It Means:
If your Brother inkjet printer is showing the "E75" error, it indicates a problem with the scanner. This could be caused by a mechanical fault or internal malfunction within the scanner assembly.

How to Fix It:

• Power off the printer and unplug it for a few minutes to reset the scanner.

• Open the scanner lid and gently check for any obstructions, such as dust or paper that may have gotten stuck inside.

• Make sure the scanner’s glass is clean and free of smudges, as dirt on the scanner bed can cause errors.

• If the scanner still isn’t working, try rebooting the printer and performing a scanner test through the printer’s control panel.

• If the issue persists, you may need to consult with Brother support for a deeper hardware inspection.

Preventative Maintenance Tips to Avoid Future Errors

Dealing with error codes can be time-consuming and frustrating, but regular maintenance and care can help you avoid many common issues before they even arise. In this section, we’ll go over some simple preventative maintenance tips that will keep your Brother inkjet printer running smoothly and reduce the likelihood of encountering error codes.

1. Regularly Check Ink Cartridges

One of the most common causes of errors is ink cartridge issues. To prevent cartridge-related errors:

• Ensure you’re using genuine Brother ink cartridges designed for your printer model.

• Regularly check the ink levels and replace cartridges before they run completely dry.

• Clean the cartridge contacts occasionally with a soft cloth to remove any dust or ink buildup that could affect performance.

2. Keep the Printer Clean

Dust, paper debris, and ink residue can accumulate inside your printer, causing performance issues and errors. To keep your printer in good working condition:

• Turn off and unplug the printer before cleaning it.

• Use a soft, lint-free cloth to gently clean the exterior and interior of the printer, especially around the paper tray and print head area.

• Clean the paper rollers regularly to ensure smooth paper feed.

3. Use Quality Paper

The quality of the paper you use can affect the printer’s performance. Low-quality or incorrect paper may lead to paper jams or feed issues. Always use paper that is compatible with your printer and fits within the recommended paper size and weight.

4. Keep the Printer Updated

Printer firmware updates typically come with bug fixes and enhancements. Make sure you periodically check for software and firmware updates for your Brother printer:

• Go to the Brother website or use the printer's software to check for available updates.

• Install updates as necessary to ensure your printer functions properly and efficiently.

5. Perform Regular Test Prints

Regular test prints can help you spot potential problems early. Print a test page periodically to check for any quality issues, such as faint printing, streaks, or color discrepancies. Early detection allows you to take action before a small problem becomes a larger issue.

How to Avoid Common Brother Inkjet Printer Problems in the Future

While troubleshooting error codes is an essential skill, prevention is always better than cure. In this section, we’ll explore some best practices and habits that will help you avoid common Brother inkjet printer problems in the future. Implementing these simple tips will extend the life of your printer, ensure smoother operation, and reduce the chances of encountering error codes.

1. Choose the Right Ink Cartridges

Using the correct ink cartridges is one of the easiest ways to avoid common ink-related error codes. Installing non-compatible or counterfeit cartridges can lead to frequent error messages, poor print quality, and malfunctioning components.

What You Can Do:

• Always use genuine Brother ink cartridges. These are designed to work seamlessly with your printer and deliver consistent performance.

• Double-check the cartridge model number before purchasing to make sure it matches your printer’s requirements.

• If you need to buy third-party ink, do thorough research to find reliable, high-quality options that will not damage your printer.

Why It Matters: Using counterfeit or incompatible cartridges can cause various issues, including clogged printheads, incorrect ink detection, and even permanent printer damage. Genuine cartridges are optimized for your specific Brother printer, which reduces the chances of malfunction.

2. Store Ink Cartridges Properly

Storing ink cartridges improperly can lead to ink drying out or clogging the printhead. When unused cartridges are exposed to heat, sunlight, or extreme temperatures, it can cause leaks or blockages that trigger error codes.

What You Can Do:

• Always keep ink cartridges in a cool, dry location, out of direct sunlight.

• Keep them in their original packaging or a sealed container to prevent them from drying out or becoming contaminated with dust.

• If you're storing cartridges for long periods, check them periodically to ensure they’re still in good condition.

Why It Matters: Improper storage can cause the ink inside the cartridges to degrade, affecting print quality and potentially causing errors related to ink detection or printhead clogging.

3. Use the Printer Regularly

Many issues with inkjet printers arise due to long periods of inactivity. Ink can dry up or clog the printhead, leading to poor print quality or error codes like the "No Ink Detected" or "Printhead Jam" errors.

What You Can Do:

• If you don’t need to print often, print a test page at least once every two weeks to keep the ink flowing and prevent it from drying out.

• If you won’t be using your printer for an extended period, perform a head cleaning before storing it to ensure that the nozzles are free of dried ink.

Why It Matters: Regular use ensures the printer’s internal components, such as the printhead, stay in good working condition and minimizes the likelihood of ink-related problems. A well-maintained printer will perform better and require fewer repairs.

4. Avoid Overloading the Paper Tray

Overloading the paper tray is a common cause of paper jams, which can trigger error codes like "Paper Jam" or "No Paper Feed." Overloaded trays can cause the printer to misfeed or jam, resulting in delays or interruptions to your printing.

What You Can Do:

• Always load the paper tray according to the printer’s recommended paper capacity. Check your printer’s manual for the maximum paper capacity.

• Use a paper size guide to ensure paper is properly aligned and not overfilled.

• If you're using thicker paper types or envelopes, load them in small batches to prevent feeding issues.

Why It Matters: Overloading the paper tray increases the chance of misfeeds or paper jams, leading to performance issues. By following the manufacturer’s guidelines, you ensure smoother paper handling and fewer disruptions to your printing tasks.

5. Perform Regular Printer Cleaning

Dust, ink residue, and paper fibers can accumulate inside the printer and cause various issues, including misfeeds, poor print quality, and error messages. Regular cleaning helps maintain smooth operation and prevents errors like "Paper Jam" and "Cartridge Not Recognized."

What You Can Do:

• Clean the paper rollers regularly with a soft, lint-free cloth to remove paper dust and prevent paper jams.

• Use a slightly damp cloth to clean the printhead area and the scanner bed (if applicable) to remove any ink or debris that might affect print quality.

• Periodically perform the printer’s internal cleaning cycle from the printer’s control panel to ensure the ink nozzles remain clear.

Why It Matters: Cleaning your printer regularly reduces the risk of clogs, paper jams, and other mechanical issues, helping the printer run smoothly and without errors.

6. Update Printer Firmware and Drivers

Printer manufacturers, including Brother, regularly release firmware updates to improve functionality and fix bugs that may cause error codes or reduce performance. Keeping your printer’s firmware and drivers updated can help you avoid these issues.

What You Can Do:

• Periodically check for firmware and software updates on Brother’s official website or through the printer’s management software.

• Set up your printer’s software to check for automatic updates, ensuring that your printer always has the latest version.

• If you're experiencing persistent issues or errors, check for updates before attempting further troubleshooting.

Why It Matters: Printer software and firmware updates often contain important bug fixes that can resolve known issues, enhance performance, and eliminate error codes caused by outdated software.

7. Handle the Printer Gently

Physical damage to the printer can cause many problems, including misalignments, faulty paper feeds, and internal malfunctions. It's essential to handle your printer with care to avoid triggering any error codes.

What You Can Do:

• Place your printer on a stable surface away from the edges to avoid accidental falls.

• Avoid moving or jostling the printer while it is in use, as this can dislodge internal components.

• When opening the printer, be gentle to avoid damaging delicate parts like the printhead or the paper rollers.

Why It Matters: Physical damage can lead to misalignments and internal issues that cause error codes and require expensive repairs. By handling your printer with care, you reduce the risk of accidental damage.