Canon Printer Error E27 — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

Error E27 on Canon printers means the ink absorber inside the printer is completely full. The printer has stopped all printing to prevent ink from overflowing and causing internal damage. This error requires servicing — the absorber pad must be physically replaced or cleaned before printing can resume.

Affected Models

Canon Pixma E400
Canon Pixma E480
Canon Pixma E560
Canon Pixma E3170
Canon Pixma E3370

Common Causes

The ink absorber pad has reached its maximum capacity after years of normal use
Excessive print head cleaning cycles filled the absorber much faster than normal printing would
The printer was used heavily with photo prints or graphics, which use more ink per page
The absorber counter was reset previously without the pad being physically replaced, allowing it to exceed safe limits
The E26 warning was repeatedly dismissed without arranging the necessary service

How to Fix It

Do not attempt to force the printer to print — doing so risks ink overflowing and permanently damaging internal components.

When the absorber is full, ink has nowhere to go. Forcing a print can cause ink to leak onto the circuit board.
Use the Canon Service Tool to reset the absorber counter as a short-term emergency measure. Search for the Canon Service Tool online and download the version for your model.

This resets the counter so the printer will work again, but the pad is still physically full. Use this only to print something urgent, then arrange service promptly.
Find an authorized Canon service center. Visit canon.com and use the support section to locate a service center in your area.

Authorized centers have the correct replacement pads and service tools for your specific printer model.
Consider DIY replacement if you are technically confident. Open the printer body, locate the absorber pad (usually a thick felt-like pad near the bottom), remove it, and replace it with a new pad.

Replacement pads are available online for most Canon Pixma models for a few dollars. You will also need to reset the counter using the Canon Service Tool after replacing the pad.
Evaluate whether to repair or replace the printer. If the printer is old or low in value, compare the service cost against buying a new model.

E27 is a common end-of-life error for Canon inkjet printers. Many users choose to replace the printer at this point rather than pay for service.

When to Call a Professional

Error E27 means the ink absorber is completely full — printing has stopped entirely. This cannot be fixed with a button press or software reset alone. The absorber pad must be physically replaced or cleaned by a service technician. Contact a Canon service center at canon.com or an independent printer repair shop. Service typically costs $30 to $80, depending on location and model.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is E27 the same as error 5B00?

Yes — E27 and 5B00 mean the same thing on different Canon printer series. Both indicate the ink absorber pad is completely full and printing has stopped. E27 typically appears on the E series (budget Pixma models), while 5B00 appears on other Pixma series. The service procedure is the same for both.

Can I DIY the ink absorber replacement at home?

Yes, many people do this successfully with a guide and some patience. You need to open the printer, remove the old absorber pad, insert new absorbent material, and reset the counter using the Canon Service Tool. Video guides for specific models are available on YouTube. However, this voids any remaining warranty and carries some risk if done incorrectly.

Will Canon replace my printer for free because of E27?

Only if the printer is within its warranty period. E27 is caused by normal wear over time — it is not typically considered a manufacturing defect. If your printer is out of warranty, Canon will charge for service. Contact Canon Support to discuss your options.