CANON Error Code E19
MEDIUMCommon IssueCanon E19 Error: Incorrect Ink Cartridge Installation
The Canon E19 error code indicates that one or more ink cartridges are not installed correctly or are not recognized by the printer.
The Canon E19 error typically signals an issue with the ink cartridge installation. This could mean a cartridge is not fully seated in its slot, is in the wrong slot, or the printer's sensors are failing to detect it properly. While sometimes it can point to a faulty cartridge or a dirty contact, the most frequent cause is a simple misalignment during installation. The printer's internal system performs a check upon closing the cartridge access door, and if it doesn't receive the expected signal from all installed cartridges, it triggers this error to alert the user. This error prevents printing because the printer cannot verify the presence and type of ink, which is crucial for its operation. It's a protective measure to ensure proper ink delivery and prevent potential damage or print quality issues from missing or incorrect cartridges. Although it can be frustrating, it's usually a straightforward fix involving re-seating or inspecting the cartridges.
- 1
Turn off the printer and unplug it from the power source for about 30 seconds, then plug it back in and turn it on. This can sometimes clear temporary glitches.
- 2
Open the printer's ink cartridge access door. Wait for the print head carriage to move to the replacement position.
- 3
Carefully remove all ink cartridges one by one. Pay attention to how they were seated.
- 4
Inspect each cartridge for any protective tape or caps that might have been left on, especially on the electrical contacts. Remove them if found.
- 5
Gently wipe the metallic electrical contacts on both the cartridges and inside the printer's carriage with a clean, lint-free cloth or cotton swab lightly dampened with distilled water. Ensure they are dry before reinserting.
- 6
Reinsert each cartridge firmly into its correct slot. Listen for a click or feel it lock into place. Ensure the color matches the label on the carriage.
- 7
Close the ink cartridge access door. The printer should initiate a recognition process. Wait for the printer to return to a ready state.
- 8
If the error persists, try replacing the suspected faulty cartridge (if you have identified one) with a new, genuine Canon cartridge.
If you have meticulously followed all the DIY steps, including trying a new, genuine Canon ink cartridge, and the E19 error continues to appear, it might indicate a more serious hardware issue. This could include a faulty print head carriage, damaged electrical contacts within the printer, or a problem with the printer's main logic board. These issues are beyond typical user repair and would require diagnosis and repair by a qualified printer technician.
Find a certified printer specialist near you →$75-$200 (if internal hardware repair is needed)
Actual costs may vary based on location and specialist
- • Canon PIXMA TS series (e.g., TS3320, TS6320)
- • Canon PIXMA MG series (e.g., MG2522, MG3620)
- • Canon PIXMA TR series (e.g., TR4520, TR8620)
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