CANON Error Code 1686
MEDIUMCommon IssueInk Cartridge Not Recognized or Empty
Error code 1686 indicates that a FINE cartridge is not installed correctly or is not recognized by the printer.
Canon error code 1686 typically appears when the printer cannot properly detect one or more of its ink cartridges. This can happen for several reasons, including a cartridge not being seated correctly in its slot, a faulty chip on the cartridge preventing communication with the printer, or the printer incorrectly identifying a cartridge as empty or incompatible. While the message might sometimes suggest an empty cartridge, it's more broadly a detection issue. This error essentially halts printing operations because the printer's internal system relies on accurate cartridge information to manage ink levels and print quality. Without proper detection, the printer cannot proceed with any print jobs, even if other cartridges are full. It's a safety mechanism to prevent damage to the print head from running dry or to ensure consistent print output.
- 1
Turn off your Canon printer and unplug it from the power source.
- 2
Open the printer's cover to access the ink cartridge compartment. Wait for the print head carriage to move to the center, if it does, or manually slide it gently if it's unlocked.
- 3
Carefully remove all installed FINE cartridges (both color and black).
- 4
Inspect the electrical contacts on the back of each cartridge (small copper-colored squares) and inside the printer's cartridge slots. Gently wipe them with a clean, lint-free cloth slightly dampened with distilled water or isopropyl alcohol. Ensure they are dry before proceeding.
- 5
Reinsert each cartridge firmly into its correct slot until you hear a click, indicating it's securely latched. Make sure the labels on the cartridges match the slots (e.g., black in the black slot, color in the color slot).
- 6
Close the printer's cover and plug the power cord back in. Turn the printer on.
- 7
If the error persists, try replacing the suspected cartridge (often indicated by the printer's display or software) with a new, genuine Canon cartridge. Sometimes, a cartridge might be defective from the factory.
- 8
Perform a nozzle check and print head alignment from the printer's maintenance menu to ensure proper function after reinstallation.
If you have followed all the DIY steps, including trying a new, genuine Canon ink cartridge, and the error code 1686 still persists, it might indicate a more serious hardware problem. This could be an issue with the printer's print head assembly, the main logic board, or the cartridge detection sensors. These components are not typically user-serviceable. At this point, contacting Canon support or a certified printer technician would be advisable, especially if your printer is still under warranty.
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- • Canon PIXMA MG Series (e.g., MG2522, MG3620)
- • Canon PIXMA MX Series (e.g., MX492, MX922)
- • Canon PIXMA TS Series (e.g., TS3120, TS5120)
- • Canon PIXMA TR Series (e.g., TR4520)
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