Canon Printer Error B206 — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

Error B206 on a Canon printer indicates a fatal hardware error in the printer's core systems. This is a step above B205 — it means the printer's self-diagnostic has found a fault it cannot recover from automatically. B206 is one of the most serious B-series errors and often requires professional repair or printer replacement. Do not attempt to use the printer until the issue is resolved.

Affected Models

Canon PIXMA MG5320
Canon PIXMA MX882
Canon PIXMA MG6120
Canon PIXMA MP560
Canon PIXMA all-in-one series

Common Causes

Main logic board failure causing the printer to fail its startup hardware test
Printhead with a catastrophic internal failure drawing incorrect current
Power supply board fault delivering incorrect voltage to core printer systems
Severe internal electrical damage from a power surge or lightning strike
Corrupted firmware causing repeated self-test failure

How to Fix It

Turn off the printer and unplug it completely. Wait 10 minutes. Plug back in and power on. Observe whether B206 appears immediately on startup or after a delay.

B206 on immediate startup suggests a main board failure. B206 after a delay may indicate a thermal or current fault that appears after components warm up.
Remove any USB cables, ethernet, or external devices connected to the printer. Power cycle again with only the power cable connected.

Occasionally a faulty USB device draws enough current to cause error codes on sensitive printers, though this is rare.
Open the printer and remove the printhead. Inspect the printhead contacts and carriage contacts for ink contamination, burnt spots, or physical damage. Clean both contact surfaces with a damp lint-free cloth.

A printhead that has shorted internally can pull enough current to trigger B206. Removing the printhead and retesting helps determine if it is the source.
If you have access to a replacement printhead (borrow or purchase), install it and test. If B206 clears with a new printhead, the original printhead has failed.

If B206 persists with a new printhead installed, the fault is in the printer's board — not the printhead.
Contact Canon support for warranty service if the printer is new. For out-of-warranty printers, obtain a repair estimate from Canon's authorized service network. Compare the estimate to the cost of a comparable replacement printer.

Canon's repair service center locator is at usa.canon.com/support.

When to Call a Professional

B206 almost always requires professional repair or printer replacement. The cost to diagnose and repair a logic board or power supply on a home PIXMA printer often exceeds the printer's value. Contact Canon support at 1-800-OK-CANON to check if your printer is covered under warranty or a current service program. For printers older than 3 years, buying a replacement is often the most practical choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a firmware update that fixes B206?

In rare cases, a corrupted firmware can cause B206. Check Canon's support website for firmware updates for your specific model. However, if the printer cannot start up fully due to B206, you may not be able to install a firmware update without Canon's service tools.

Can a power surge cause B206?

Yes. A power surge can damage the printer's internal power supply or logic board. If B206 appeared after a storm, power outage, or when plugged into an unprotected outlet, a surge may be the cause. Using a surge-protected power strip protects your printer from future events.

Should I try to repair a printer that shows B206?

For entry-level Canon PIXMA printers priced under $100, repair is rarely cost-effective. For mid-range or professional Canon printers valued at $200 or more, getting a repair estimate makes sense. Always compare the estimate against the current price of a replacement model.