Epson Printer Error Codes

Complete List with Solutions

By TestMyPrinter Team | Updated December 2026

Jump to Error Code

Error 0x97

Critical

Meaning: Internal hardware failure, usually motherboard or print head related.

How to Fix:

  1. Turn off the printer and unplug from power
  2. Wait 5 minutes (important!)
  3. Open the printer and remove all ink cartridges
  4. While unplugged, press the power button 5 times
  5. Reinstall the ink cartridges
  6. Plug in and turn on the printer
  7. Run a nozzle check to verify function

If error persists: The motherboard or print head may need replacement. Contact Epson support or consider if repair cost exceeds printer value.

Error 0x9a

Hardware

Meaning: Paper feed mechanism or carriage error.

How to Fix:

  1. Turn off printer and open all covers
  2. Check for and remove any jammed paper
  3. Inspect the carriage (print head holder) path for obstructions
  4. Ensure the carriage can move freely left to right
  5. Check the timing belt isn't loose or damaged
  6. Clean any debris from the paper path
  7. Close covers and restart printer

Error 0xf1

Hardware

Meaning: Ink pad is at the end of its service life.

How to Fix:

  1. Option 1: Contact Epson for ink pad replacement service
  2. Option 2: Use Epson's online Maintenance Reset Utility (available for some models)
  3. Option 3: Use WIC Reset Utility (third-party, use at own risk)

What is this? Epson printers have ink waste pads that absorb excess ink during cleaning. When saturated, the printer stops to prevent ink leakage.

Error E-01

Paper Jam

Meaning: Paper jam detected or foreign object in printer.

How to Fix:

  1. Turn off the printer
  2. Open the scanner unit (top cover)
  3. Gently pull jammed paper in the direction of paper travel
  4. Check rear access panel if available
  5. Look for small torn pieces of paper
  6. Close all covers and restart

Error E-02

Paper

Meaning: Paper out or not feeding properly.

How to Fix:

  1. Check paper is loaded in tray
  2. Fan the paper stack to separate sheets
  3. Ensure paper guides are snug but not too tight
  4. Don't overload the tray
  5. Use correct paper size and type
  6. Clean paper feed rollers with damp lint-free cloth

Warning W-01

Warning

Meaning: Paper jam in ADF (Automatic Document Feeder).

How to Fix:

  1. Open the ADF cover
  2. Remove jammed documents carefully
  3. Check ADF rollers for debris
  4. Close cover and reload documents

Warning W-13

Warning

Meaning: Ink cartridge not recognized or installed incorrectly.

How to Fix:

  1. Remove and reinsert the cartridge
  2. Ensure cartridge clicks into place
  3. Check cartridge is correct model for your printer
  4. Clean cartridge contacts with dry lint-free cloth
  5. If using third-party ink, try genuine Epson cartridge

Common Ink Errors

"Ink cartridge cannot be recognized"

Remove cartridge, clean contacts, reinsert. If third-party, try genuine Epson.

"Ink low" but cartridge is full

Epson uses chips to track ink. Third-party cartridges may not reset properly. Try resetting the chip or using cartridges with auto-reset chips.

"Replace ink cartridge" immediately after install

Cartridge may be defective or incompatible. Try another cartridge of same color. Clean printer contacts with isopropyl alcohol.

"Non-genuine ink" warning

This is a warning, not an error. You can usually click OK/Continue to proceed. Using non-Epson ink may void warranty.

EcoTank Specific Errors

"Ink tank not filled" on new printer

Follow initial setup to fill tanks. Press and hold the ink button for 3 seconds after filling to reset.

"Check ink levels"

EcoTank printers estimate ink based on usage. Refill any tank below the lower line. Ink level on screen is approximate.

When to Contact Epson Support

  • Error persists after all troubleshooting steps
  • Error codes starting with 0x (hardware failures)
  • Printer is under warranty
  • Physical damage to printer components

Epson Support: epson.com/support | 1-800-463-7766

Related Guides