Canon Printer Error Code E36 — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

Canon error E36 means the printer detected a problem with the scanner unit or its home position sensor. The scanner carriage — the mechanism that moves across the glass when scanning — did not return to its starting position correctly. This error stops all printing and scanning.

Affected Models

Canon PIXMA MG3600 Series
Canon PIXMA MG2900 Series
Canon PIXMA TS3300 Series
Canon PIXMA MX490 Series
Canon PIXMA E470 Series

Common Causes

The scanner carriage is physically blocked by an object left on or inside the scanner
The scanner lid was opened while a scan was in progress, interrupting the carriage mid-movement
The scanner carriage motor or drive belt has worn out and can no longer move the carriage reliably
Dust, debris, or a sticky residue on the scanner rail is preventing smooth carriage movement
A sudden loss of power during a scan left the carriage stranded away from its home position

How to Fix It

Turn the printer off and unplug it from the wall. Open the scanner lid and look across the full length of the glass.

Check for any paper, small objects, or even a pen that might be resting on the glass and blocking the carriage's path.
Look for the scanner carriage (the bright scanning bar visible through the glass). It should be parked at the left or right end. If it is stuck in the middle, try gently sliding it toward the home end by hand.

Only move the carriage by hand when the printer is powered off. Never force it if it feels jammed — you may break the belt.
Close the scanner lid firmly and plug the printer back in. Turn it on and let it complete its full startup self-test.

During startup the printer will move the carriage to its home position. Watch and listen for any grinding or clicking noises.
If the error clears, run a scan from the printer's control panel to confirm the scanner is working.

If the scan completes without error, the problem was a temporary carriage position issue that the restart resolved.
If the error returns, inspect the scanner rail inside the unit for dust or sticky buildup. Use a dry cotton swab to carefully clean the rail on both sides of the glass where the carriage slides.

A slightly tacky residue on the rail is enough to cause the carriage to stall. This is a common issue in humid environments.

When to Call a Professional

If the scanner carriage is visibly stuck and does not move after a full reset, the motor or belt drive may have failed. A technician can open the scanner unit and repair or replace the carriage mechanism. For budget inkjet models, weigh the repair cost against the cost of a replacement printer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I still print if my Canon printer shows E36?

No. Error E36 halts all printer functions, including printing. Even if you only want to print and not scan, the printer treats the scanner unit as part of its overall system check. The error must be resolved before printing can resume.

Is it safe to manually push the scanner carriage back into position?

Yes, as long as the printer is completely powered off and unplugged. Gently slide the carriage toward the home end — usually the left side. Never force it past any resistance. If it moves freely, a power cycle after repositioning it often clears the error.

My Canon printer showed E36 after a power outage. Is it broken?

Probably not. Power outages can interrupt the scanner mid-movement, leaving the carriage stranded. This is one of the most common causes of E36. Simply power cycle the printer — it will re-home the carriage on startup. If it does so successfully, E36 should clear on its own.