Canon Printer Error E48 — Ink Level Unknown

What Does This Error Mean?

Error E48 means the printer cannot detect the ink level in one or more cartridges. This is most common when using third-party, compatible, or refilled cartridges that do not have a working ink level chip. You can often dismiss the warning and continue printing — but you won't get low-ink alerts.

Affected Models

Canon PIXMA MG2522
Canon PIXMA MG2922
Canon PIXMA TS202
Canon PIXMA TR4520
Canon PIXMA MG3620

Common Causes

A third-party or compatible ink cartridge is installed that does not include an ink level chip
A genuine Canon cartridge was refilled and its chip was not reset
The ink level chip on a genuine cartridge has become dirty or damaged
A cartridge chip contact inside the printer is dirty and cannot read the chip
The cartridge was installed at an angle and the chip is not making full contact

How to Fix It

If you are using third-party or compatible cartridges, check the packaging for mention of ink level monitoring.

Many compatible cartridges intentionally omit the ink chip. E48 is expected with these — you can continue printing by pressing OK.
Remove each cartridge and wipe the copper chip contacts with a dry lint-free cloth.

Ink residue on the chip contacts is a common cause of detection failures even with genuine cartridges.
Also clean the contact pins inside the printer carriage where each cartridge seats.

Use a cotton swab very lightly dampened with distilled water — never use rubbing alcohol directly on the pins.
Reinstall each cartridge firmly until it clicks. Close the cover.

Make sure each cartridge is in the correct colour slot — wrong slot placement also causes chip read errors.
If using genuine cartridges and the error persists, try a full power cycle — off, unplugged for 60 seconds, then on.

This resets the printer's ink level memory and forces a fresh chip read on startup.

When to Call a Professional

E48 is rarely a hardware problem and almost never requires professional service. If you have verified that genuine Canon cartridges are installed and the error remains, a technician can clean the chip contacts. This is a minor servicing job — under $30 at most service centers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I keep printing when E48 appears?

Yes, in most cases you can press OK to dismiss E48 and continue printing. You simply will not get accurate ink level warnings. Watch the print quality for signs of running low on ink.

Will switching back to genuine Canon cartridges fix E48?

Yes — genuine Canon cartridges include a working ink level chip and will resolve E48. If E48 still appears with genuine cartridges, the chip contacts need cleaning.

Does E48 mean my cartridge is empty?

No — E48 means the printer cannot read the level, not that the cartridge is empty. The cartridge could be full, half full, or empty. Check your print quality to gauge how much ink remains.