CANON Error Code 13.1

MEDIUMCommon Issue

Canon Error 13.1: Paper Jam in Cassette/Tray 1 Area

What This Error Means

Canon Error 13.1 indicates a paper jam detected within the paper cassette or Tray 1 feeding mechanism.

Detailed Explanation

Error 13.1 on Canon printers typically points to a paper jam that has occurred as the paper attempts to feed from the main paper cassette (often designated as Tray 1) into the printer's internal path. This error is triggered when the printer's sensors detect an obstruction or an abnormal paper path during the initial pickup phase from the tray. Common culprits include misaligned paper, overloaded trays, or foreign objects obstructing the paper's entry point. The underlying causes can range from simple user error, such as incorrect paper loading or using damaged paper, to mechanical issues like worn-out pickup rollers or a malfunctioning paper separation pad. The printer's internal sensors, specifically those near the paper pickup assembly, are crucial in identifying this type of jam. If the paper doesn't pass these sensors within a specified timeframe after the pickup roller engages, the 13.1 error is generated, halting the print job to prevent further damage.

DIY Troubleshooting Steps
Try these steps before calling a specialist
  1. 1

    Turn off the printer and unplug it from the power source to ensure safety.

  2. 2

    Carefully open the paper cassette (Tray 1) and remove all paper. Inspect the paper for any tears, wrinkles, or damage, and ensure it's stacked neatly.

  3. 3

    Look inside the empty cassette area and gently feel for any foreign objects (paper clips, staples, small debris) that might be obstructing the path. Remove anything found.

  4. 4

    Check the paper pickup rollers, usually visible at the front of the cassette area. If they appear dirty, gently clean them with a lint-free cloth lightly dampened with water or isopropyl alcohol.

  5. 5

    Reload the paper into the cassette, ensuring it's properly aligned with the guides and not overfilled beyond the maximum fill line.

  6. 6

    Close the paper cassette securely. Ensure no paper is sticking out or misaligned.

  7. 7

    Plug the printer back in and turn it on. Attempt to print a test page.

  8. 8

    If the error persists, try using a different ream of paper to rule out paper quality issues.

  9. 9

    Inspect the area immediately above the paper cassette for any access panels that might reveal more of the paper path. Open them carefully and check for hidden paper fragments.

When to Call a Specialist

If you've followed all the DIY steps, including cleaning the rollers and checking for debris, and the 13.1 error continues to appear, it's time to consider professional assistance. This usually indicates a deeper mechanical problem, such as severely worn or damaged pickup rollers that require replacement, a faulty paper separation pad, or a malfunctioning paper sensor that isn't accurately detecting paper movement. These components often require specific tools and expertise to diagnose and replace correctly, and attempting to force them can cause further damage to your printer.

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Estimated Repair Cost

$100-$250

Actual costs may vary based on location and specialist

Commonly Affected Models
  • • Canon imageRUNNER ADVANCE C3525i
  • • Canon imageCLASS MF445dw
  • • Canon PIXMA TR8620
  • • Canon MAXIFY MB2720
  • • Canon i-SENSYS MF742Cdw
Related Error Codes
Canon 13.2Canon 13.3Canon 13.4

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