Canon Printer Error Code E15 — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

The E15 error means your Canon printer does not detect an ink cartridge in one or more slots. Either a cartridge is missing, not seated properly, or has a dirty contact. The printer will not print until every cartridge slot is filled and recognized.

Affected Models

Canon PIXMA TS3500 Series
Canon PIXMA MG2500 Series
Canon PIXMA TR4700 Series
Canon PIXMA MG3600 Series
Canon PIXMA TS5300 Series

Common Causes

One or more ink cartridges are not installed in the printer
A cartridge was installed but not pushed down firmly enough to click into place
The gold or copper electrical contacts on the cartridge are dirty or have protective tape still on them
The cartridge is not compatible with your specific Canon printer model
The cartridge contacts inside the printer are dirty or have dried ink on them

How to Fix It

Open the printer cover and wait for the cartridge holder to move to the center. Check that every slot has a cartridge installed.

If any slot is empty, install the correct cartridge for that slot. Each slot is labeled with a color.
Remove each cartridge one at a time and push it back in firmly until you hear a click.

A cartridge that looks installed but is not fully seated is the most common cause of E15.
Check the bottom of each cartridge for protective tape or plastic. New cartridges often have orange tape covering the contacts and ink nozzle.

The tape must be completely removed before installation. Even a small piece left behind can block the contacts.
Clean the gold or copper contacts on the cartridge with a dry lint-free cloth. Also gently wipe the matching contacts inside the printer.

Dirty contacts prevent the printer from recognizing the cartridge. Do not use water or cleaning solutions.
If using third-party or refilled cartridges, try an official Canon cartridge instead to rule out compatibility issues.

Some third-party cartridges have chips that are not recognized by all Canon models.

When to Call a Professional

The E15 error is usually fixable at home by reseating or replacing cartridges. If the error persists after trying all steps, the cartridge slot contacts inside the printer may be damaged. A Canon authorized service center can inspect and repair this for $40 to $70.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between E04 and E15?

E04 means the printer sees a cartridge but does not recognize it. E15 means the printer does not detect a cartridge at all in one or more slots. E04 is usually a compatibility issue. E15 is usually a seating or contact issue.

Can I print with only one cartridge installed?

Most Canon PIXMA printers require all cartridges to be installed. Even if you only want to print in black, the color cartridge must be present. Some models let you print temporarily with one empty cartridge, but E15 means a slot is completely undetected.

Why does my new cartridge trigger E15?

New cartridges sometimes have protective tape or plastic that must be removed. Check the bottom and back of the cartridge for any orange tape. Also make sure you bought the correct cartridge number for your specific printer model.