Canon Printer Error Code E04 — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

The E04 error means your Canon printer does not recognize one or more ink cartridges. The cartridge may be installed incorrectly, have a dirty contact, or be incompatible. Reseating or replacing the cartridge usually fixes this error.

Affected Models

Canon PIXMA TS3500 Series
Canon PIXMA TR4700 Series
Canon PIXMA TS5300 Series
Canon PIXMA MG3600 Series
Canon PIXMA G6000 Series

Common Causes

An ink cartridge is not fully clicked into its slot
The gold contacts on the cartridge are dirty, smudged, or have protective tape still covering them
The cartridge is not compatible with your specific Canon printer model
A recently installed cartridge is defective or has a damaged chip
The cartridge slot contacts inside the printer are dirty or corroded

How to Fix It

Open the top cover of the printer and wait for the cartridge holder to move to the center.

Do not force the holder to move. It should slide to the access position automatically.
Press down on the cartridge that is causing the error until it clicks and pops out. Check the bottom for any protective tape or film that was not removed.

New cartridges have orange or yellow tape covering the contacts. This must be peeled off before installation.
Clean the gold or copper contacts on the bottom of the cartridge with a lint-free cloth slightly dampened with distilled water.

Do not touch the ink nozzle opening. Only clean the flat electrical contacts.
Also clean the contacts inside the cartridge slot in the printer using the same method.

Let everything dry completely for two to three minutes before reinserting.
Reinsert the cartridge firmly into the correct slot until you feel it click into place. Close the top cover.

If the error persists with a specific cartridge, try replacing it with a new genuine Canon cartridge.

When to Call a Professional

If cleaning and reseating all cartridges does not clear the E04 error, the cartridge detection circuit in the printer may be faulty. This is uncommon but requires professional repair. Cost varies from $60 to $120 depending on the model.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use third-party cartridges in my Canon printer?

Some third-party cartridges work fine, but others have chips that Canon printers do not recognize. If you just installed a third-party cartridge and got the E04 error, it may be incompatible. Try a genuine Canon cartridge to confirm.

I just bought a new cartridge and it shows E04. Is it defective?

Possibly. First, make sure you removed all protective tape and packaging. Then clean the contacts and reinstall it firmly. If it still does not work, exchange it at the store — defective cartridges do happen occasionally.

Does the E04 error damage my printer?

No. The E04 error simply means the printer cannot communicate with a cartridge. It pauses printing until the issue is resolved. No harm is done to the printer itself.