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Complete Epson Printer Error Code List With Solutions

by Will Kessler
Epson Printer Error Code List

Epson is certainly one of the most recognizable brands in the printer industry, as it is one of the longest-standing ones. Being a Japanese company by origin, certain design specifics have been kept along, including simplicity of use and clear information being presented to the user. This includes the error codes which are clearly differentiated and organized into groups, depending on which type of an error the printer is having issues with at any given time. Below you can find designations and solutions to the most common Epson printer error codes.

Our team of printer specialists is formed in such a way that there is one representative for every brand of printer. For example, Jason specializes in Canon printers and has recently finished the comprehensive list of Canon Error Codes with solutions. If you would like to see all of the printer brands and error messages we covered, please visit our Printer Error Codes section.

Errors below have been sorted alphabetically, so the best course of action to find a specific error would be to use the Ctrl+F option and look up the code that is giving you troubles.


Epson Printer Error Code 1131 Solution

The reason behind printer utility setup error 1131 is an issue with the printer’s driver or other software.

To resolve the issue it is recommended to reinstall or update the printer’s driver. First, you will need to uninstall the previous version of the driver, which is best to be done in the Control Panel – Device Manager. Locate your printer on the list, right-click on the item, and select Update Driver. It is best to install the latest driver from the Internet so select that as your source. Turn the printer off after the driver has been installed, let it stay off for at least 10 minutes, and then power it back on.

If the issue is not resolved reset your computer and try printing again.


Epson Printer Error Code 000031 Solution

The reason behind error 000031 is either jammed paper, empty ink, or improper maintenance of the printer.

To resolve the issue it is best to start by removing any jammed paper from the printer. This can be done differently, depending on the exact model of your Epson printer, but in general, it is rather simple to do. You will need to open the compartments to reach the zones in which the paper might be jammed and gently and carefully pull it out so that it does not rip in the process.

If the issue is not resolved your best bet would be to replace the ink cartridges with new, genuine ones. It is best to purchase a new, genuine set, instead of refilling as this can cause additional issues in use further down the line.


Epson Printer Error Code 000041 Solution

The reason behind printer error 000041 is improper installation of ink cartridges, or the ones you are currently using might be running low on ink.

To resolve the issue you should first try to reseat the ink cartridges, especially if you recently installed them. An improper connection between the ink cartridges and the printhead might be the root cause of this error to appear. If your cartridges have been in use for a while, there is a high chance that they are close to running out of ink so it would be a good idea to find some genuine and brand new replacements.

If the issue is not resolved by exchanging the ink cartridges, you should try and work on the printer’s drivers. To do this properly, it is always best to first uninstall the existing and currently active drivers and only then install the new drivers for your Epson printer. Make sure to power your printer off and on a couple of times and try printing again.


Epson Printer Error Code 000044 Solution

The reason behind printer error 000044 is related to a bad logic board that handles scanning on Epson printers. It is considered to be absolute and in most cases, you will be best off to purchase a new printer. However, there are some steps you can take to try and handle this.

To try and resolve the issue you will first need to unplug the power cable out of the printer and let it sit like that for at least 10 minutes. Once this is done, press and hold the power button for about a minute. Continue holding it and plug the power cord back into the printer, releasing the power button as you do this. This process performs a hard reset of your Epson printer and can help temporarily resolve this issue.

If the issue is not resolved there is not a lot you can do, unfortunately. The error indicates a permanent hardware issue related to the scanner’s module logic board that generally costs US$200 or more to replace.


Epson Printer Error Code 031008 Solution

The reason behind printer error 031008 is the improper insertion of the ink cartridges into their designated slots in the printhead.

To try and resolve the issue the first thing you would want to do, especially if you just recently replaced your ink cartridges, is to take them out, clean the contact points with some rubbing alcohol and cotton swabs and install them once again. This should eliminate most causes of this error, which is either a weak connection or some dirt or hardened ink residue, preventing proper contact to take place.

If the issue is not resolved, especially if this error occurred on old, worn-out ink cartridges, it is best to purchase a new genuine set and install it. The most common trigger for this error to occur in the first place is pushing the ink cartridges way over their use limits, which causes dried-up ink and problems that can prevent your printer from functioning properly. Make sure to keep an eye on your ink cartridges’ content level and replace them sooner rather than later.


Epson Printer Error Code 0x10 Solution

The reason behind Epson error 0x10 is a fault inside the scanner mechanism.

To try and resolve the issue, it is best for you to first check out if the scanner mechanism has some visible obstruction, preventing it from functioning properly. This might require a certain degree of disassembly, so if you are not feeling comfortable with this, you can always check out the official user manual to find more information for your specific model. Try to remove as many panels as possible to reveal the scanner’s guide rails which will make it easier to observe any obstruction and material that causes this error to occur. Refrain yourself from using compressed air bottles as this can push debris into other sensitive places, causing additional problems.

If the issue is not resolved it is possible that you need to restart your printer fully for the changes to take effect. Unplug both data and power cables from your printer and let it sit like that for at least 10 minutes. Then, press and hold the power button for at least a minute. After this, keep holding the power button while you reinsert the power cord back into the printer and only then release the power button. This procedure performs a hard reset and should provide an additional step to clear the 0x10 error code.


Epson Printer Error Code 0x60 Solution

Also known as 60H

The reason behind Epson code 0x60 is an issue related to the printer’s sensors, usually the PW sensors which are installed in specific models.

To try and resolve the issue the first thing you should try is to clean the sensor parts using rubbing alcohol and cotton swabs. The location of sensors varies between different models of Epson printers so it is best to consult the user manual for your exact printer model to determine the locations to check.

If the issue is not resolved by cleaning the sensors as described above, it is possible that there is a different type of obstruction limiting the functionality of the sensors. Tiny objects and pieces of paper that ripped off might be causing the issue, so if the cleaning did not resolve the issue, observe the area around the sensors as well as all of the mechanical carriages for rogue material.


Epson Printer Error Code 0x69 Solution

The reason behind Epson error 0x69 is somewhat difficult to pinpoint, but it usually indicates a hardware issue with your printer. It is also possible that the configuration files inside your Windows installation have gone corrupt and will require fixing.

To try and resolve the issue the first thing you should do is restart your printer. Simply turn it off and unplug both power and data cables. Let it stay like that for at least a minute. Then, press and hold the power button for a minute, and while still holding it, plug the power cable back in. Release the power button and check if the printer has regained its functionality.

If the issue is not resolved you should try updating the printer’s driver. This is best to be done in a way where you remove the previously installed driver, basically disabling the device altogether, and only then install the new driver as if you purchased a new printer. This should fix any configuration files inside your Windows that may have gone corrupt.


Epson Printer Error Code 0x95 Solution

The reason behind Epson error 0x95 is closely related to your printer’s printhead – it is either faulty or requires thorough cleaning.

To try and resolve the issue the first thing to do is to clean the printhead. In order to do this properly and safely, you will need to unplug data and power cables from your printer, open up the ink cartridge compartment, remove the ink cartridges, and only then will you be able to get the printhead out of the printer. Printhead cleaning is done by pouring demineralized water through it several times, as many as it takes until the water running through it becomes nearly clear. It is of utmost importance that the printhead is then dried off properly, which is best to be done naturally, by letting the cleaned printhead sit on air for as long as it takes (a couple of hours at least). Once it is bone dry, you can proceed with the re-assembly and testing if this solved your issue.

If the issue is not resolved your printhead is most likely faulty, which means you will either need to get a new printhead (hardly cost-effective) or purchase a new printer.


Epson Printer Error Code 0x97 Solution

The reason behind error 0x97 is some kind of hardware malfunction, mostly related to the control logic board or other internal components. Here are some solutions for this issue that commonly affects WorkForce printers by Epson, such as the WF-3640.

To resolve this problem it is best to perform a hard reset on your Epson printer. First, dismiss any printing jobs that might have been left in the printing queue. Then, remove all paper material as well as ink cartridges and disconnect both power and data cables from your printer. Once all of this is done, press and hold the power button for at least one minute. While holding the power button, plug the power cable back into the printer and release it shortly after. Place the ink cartridges back and put some paper in the tray and perform a test print to see if this 0x97 fix has worked for your case.

If the issue is still not resolved, it is recommended to thoroughly clean the printhead as well. This is done by removing the ink cartridges from their position, which reveals the printhead body as it is ready to be cleaned. It is recommended to remove the printhead out of the printer and soak it in demineralized warm water for a while. If you do this, make sure to let it air dry for as long as possible before installing it back into the printer.


Epson Printer Error Code 0x9A Solution

The reason behind Epson error 0x9A most likely lies in a faulty ink cartridge or the cartridge simply was not installed correctly in the first place.

To try and resolve the issue it is best to start with cleaning the printer thoroughly. Remove all ink cartridges from their seating and set them aside on a piece of paper towel. Observe the area around the ink cartridge installation spot and make sure to remove any pieces of paper or other debris. If you notice dried-up ink on moving parts of the carriage, use some rubbing alcohol and a cotton swab to remove it. Clean all of the contact points on the ink cartridges as well and reinstall them back into the printhead. Perform a test print to see if the issue has been resolved.

If the issue is still not resolved your printer’s encoder strip might be stained and therefore not provide the correct carriage position to the logic board of the printer. This strip is located behind the ink cartridge carriage and it should be completely translucent. If you see any ink spots on it, these should be cleaned. However, special attention and care are required as it is a very fragile and critical part of your printer which is hard to replace if torn.


Epson Printer Error Code 0x9D Solution

The reason behind error 0x9D can often be difficult to determine, but in most cases, it is a matter of dirty printhead or issues with the printer driver.

To try and resolve the issue the first order of business would be to perform some basic maintenance for your printer. The focus should be on the printhead itself, as dried-up ink can cause issues with the printer’s functionality, especially if you have a habit of pushing your ink cartridges to their limits. Cleaning the printhead is a rather simple but structured task; you will need to open the ink cartridge compartment, remove the ink cartridges, and set them aside. This will provide you access to the printhead, which can easily be removed out of the printer and washed thoroughly with demineralized water. Wash it for as long as there is a clear stream of water coming out of it – this indicates that it has been cleaned properly. Let it air dry for a while and install everything back together.

If the issue is still not resolved you should try updating your printer’s drivers as this is the second most common problem that posts 0x9D error on Epson printers. Driver files carry configuration files that can become corrupted for a variety of reasons, so it is a good idea to renew all of the files so that the printer can operate in optimal conditions.


Epson Printer Error Code 0x9E Solution

The reason behind error 0x9E is closely related to the printhead. It may be incorrectly installed or it carries a critical fault that can render your printer useless without a replacement.

To try and resolve the issue the first thing you should try is to take your printhead out of your printer and clean it well with demineralized water. It is important to use demineralized water to avoid any caulk build-up inside the delicate channels of the printhead which can cause blockages. In order to gain access to the printhead, you will need to remove all of the ink cartridges. Make sure to dry the printhead well after cleaning it, as the moisture will most likely cause issues with print quality further down the line.

If the issue is still not resolved there is not much you can do other than order a replacement printhead or purchase a new printer.


Epson Printer Error Code 0xE3 Solution

The reason behind error 0xE3 is a failure of the CR encoder, usually caused by contamination on the scale or a critical logic board problem. Some users reported that this error was caused by the timing belt slippage, caused by worn-out teeth on the supporting gearing.

To try and resolve the issue there are some things to take into consideration. It is common for this error to appear when the printer is brand new and run for the first time as the packing material has not been completely removed by the user. There are large chunks of packing material inside the printer as well so it is important to check if all of this has been removed prior to first-time usage. In cases where you have been using your printer for a while and the 0xE3 error appeared, some basic maintenance might resolve the issue. Cleaning the cartridge carriage and the guides is a good place to start, make sure these are as clean as possible, without any ink residue or pieces of paper stuck in between.

If the issue is still not resolved you will most likely require assistance from a qualified Epson printer technician. Gears and belts are difficult to source and can be quite complicated to install properly, but it is a repair worth paying for as it should not break the bank. Consider contacting a local printer service company.


Epson Printer Error Code 0xE5 Solution

The reason behind Epson error 0xE5 is most likely a contaminated encoder strip or a physical blockage preventing the determination of printhead position properly.

To try and resolve the issue the focus of your attempts needs to be set onto the encoder strip itself. This is a transparent piece of delicate tape that can be found behind the ink cartridges and it should be transparent at all times in order for the encoder to work properly. If there are any splashes of ink or dried-up ink on it, the encoder might have difficulties with the operation. Use a bit of rubbing alcohol on a piece of clean cotton cloth to wipe it gently. Reinstall everything back in its position and initiate a test print job.

If the issue is still not resolved check the rest of the printer for pieces of paper, lint, or dust. All of these can be the culprit for the 0xE5 error message in Epson printers.


Epson Printer Error Code 0xE8 Solution

The reason behind Epson error 0xE8 is a direct obstruction causing the printhead to be unable to move freely.

To resolve this issue, first, turn the printer off and disconnect all cables, both power and data. Open up all of the covers that have been put in place for basic servicing and make sure that there is no leftover paper or any other material. Once removed, hold the power button for at least a minute, and while still holding it plug the power cord back into the printer. Release the power button and your printer should be good to go.

If the issue is still not resolved there is not much you can do on your own and your printer will require professional service. In this case, it might be worth your money as it is most likely an issue with a gear spinning out or some other mechanical part that should not cost a fortune, but it might be difficult to trace.


Epson Printer Error Code 0xEA Solution

The reason behind the Epson 0xEA error, if the printer is brand new, is a most likely leftover packaging material that prevents the ink cartridge carriage from moving properly and freely. If the printer has been in use for a while, the issue might be triggered by an improper installation of the ink cartridge.

To resolve this issue it is first necessary to check whether or not there is nothing obstructing the carriage’s pathway, such as styrofoam, cardboard, or sticky tape that might have been left there unintentionally. This solution obviously applies to brand new printers that have been put in use before removing all of the packing material. If your printer only recently posted the 0xEA code, check that all of your ink cartridges are installed correctly by removing them, cleaning the contacts on both ends, and reinstalling them properly.

If the issue persists after the above solutions, you might need to contact a qualified Epson service technician as there might be some additional and more advanced repair tasks to be attempted.


Epson Printer Error Code 0xF1 Solution

Also known as F1

The reason behind the Epson 0xF1 error is hardware-based in nature, often indicating an issue such as paper jam or obstructed printhead movement.

To resolve this issue on your L575 or similar Epson printer it is best to start with checking whether or not there are pieces of torn paper stuck in between the moving parts of the internals. There are service openings on every printer designed to make this as simple as possible so make sure to check everything you can for rogue material. Remove any lint, dust buildup as well as dried-up ink by using cotton swabs and rubbing alcohol and try printing again.

If the above solution did not resolve your problem, your printer’s printhead is most likely out of alignment. This is a rather simple fix to take, as you just need to take your printhead out and install it once again. To do this, open up the ink cartridge compartment and remove all of the ink cartridges, placing them on a piece of paper towel. Then, take the printhead out of the printer. While you are at it, we would recommend that you clean your printhead using distilled water, letting it run through until it runs completely clear. Make sure to dry it up properly as well, best to leave it to air-dry. Once done, reinstall everything back together and give it another shot.


Epson Printer Error Code 0xF3 Solution

The reason behind the Epson 0xF3 error is a failure in the PF encoder, usually caused by a soiled scale or an issue with the encoder board itself.

To resolve this issue you will need to get behind the printhead as this is where the transparent encoder tape is located. Remove all of the ink cartridges as well as the printhead to gain access to this area. Observe the transparency of the tape – if there are any spots of dried-up ink or some dust, take a cotton cloth, douse it with rubbing alcohol, and gently slide across the tape to remove all of the contaminants. Take a look around the area to remove any other material such as pieces of paper, dust, lint, or similar. Assemble everything back together and try to print.

If the issue still persists, a more complex repair will need to take place. We would recommend taking your printer to an authorized service shop as your printer might need to have some gearing replaced and get everything timed properly again with the timing belt.


Epson Printer Error Code 0xFA Solution

The reason behind the Epson 0xFA error is a mechanical obstruction that might have caused the printer’s motor to overload or one of the cables going into the logic board has been dislodged.

To resolve this issue open up the service compartments and observe the surrounding area for pieces of paper or other rogue material that might have caused the printer to stall. Make sure to check the area around the printhead and the guide rails as this is where most of the exertion takes place when it comes to motors. Remove all foreign material and try printing once again.

If the issue has not been resolved, check all of the cables you can see inside and out and make sure these are properly connected, without any loose ends. Another point of interest here is the transparent encoder strip which is located right behind the printhead. You can attempt to wipe it clean with a clean piece of cotton cloth and some rubbing alcohol, just make sure you are as gentle as possible.


Epson Printer Error Code E-01 Solution

The reason behind the Epson E-01 printer error is commonly linked to ink cartridges, whether the connection has not been made properly or there is an issue with the ink cartridge itself.

To resolve this issue the first order of business would be to take all of the ink cartridges out and place them on a clean piece of paper towel. Observe the connection points on the printhead, making sure there aren’t any traces of dried-up ink, dust, or any other misplaced material. Clean it all thoroughly by using either paper towels or cotton swabs assisted with some rubbing alcohol. Then, clean the connection points on the ink cartridges themselves using the same method. Make sure everything has dried up properly before reassembling.

If the issue has not been resolved you might want to perform a hard reset on your Epson printer. This is done by turning the printer off and unplugging all of the cables, including power and data. Let it stay like that for at least five minutes. Then, press and hold the power button for one minute, after which period, while still holding the power button, plug the power cable back into the printer. With this, your printer will be fully reset and ready for printing.


Epson Printer Error Code W-61 Solution

The Epson W-61 error indicates an issue with communication between your computer and your printer. In cases where your Epson printer operates over Wi-Fi, the issue might be in the network configuration itself.

To resolve this issue it is necessary to check all data connections of your printer and computer. This usually revolves around a single USB data cable. Unplug it and plug it back in on both ends and try printing or scanning once again.

If the issue has not been resolved with the above solution, try installing your printer’s drivers once again. This can be done properly by removing the old version of the printer’s drivers and installing the latest drivers downloaded from Epson’s official website. By installing the latest drivers you will be providing your printer and computer with a fresh set of instructions so there is a high chance of success in tackling this issue in this way.