Epson Printer Error Code 0x99 — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

Epson error 0x99 means the printer detected an internal communication failure. A critical component inside the printer stopped responding during startup or operation. This error freezes the printer completely and requires troubleshooting before it can be used again.

Affected Models

Epson WorkForce WF-2860
Epson WorkForce Pro WF-3720
Epson Expression Home XP-4100
Epson Expression Home XP-4105
Epson EcoTank ET-2720

Common Causes

The connection between the main board and the print head has developed a fault
The printer's firmware crashed during a print job and corrupted its internal state
Static discharge or a power spike damaged the internal communication circuitry
The print head needs cleaning but the blockage is severe enough to trigger a hardware fault
A cable connecting internal components has come loose from its connector

How to Fix It

Unplug the printer from the wall outlet. Leave it completely unplugged for 10 full minutes. Then plug it back in and power it on.

10 minutes is enough to fully discharge all capacitors inside the printer, forcing a complete hardware reset.
Run a print head cleaning cycle if the printer will allow it. Go to the printer's maintenance menu and select Head Cleaning or Nozzle Check.

If the error was triggered by a severe print head blockage, a cleaning cycle may resolve it.
Update the printer firmware. Visit epson.com/support on your computer, find your printer model, and download and run the latest firmware update via USB connection.

A firmware crash can leave the printer in error state 0x99 — fresh firmware installation often clears this.
Uninstall and reinstall the printer driver on your computer. Download the latest driver from epson.com/support.

Corrupted driver software can sometimes cause communication errors that surface as hardware error codes.
If none of the above resolves the error, the printer requires professional service. Contact Epson at 1-800-463-7766 and have the model number and serial number ready.

Epson support can arrange mail-in service and will quote repair costs for out-of-warranty units.

When to Call a Professional

Error 0x99 is a serious internal hardware or firmware error. If the steps below do not clear it, contact Epson Support at 1-800-463-7766 or visit epson.com/support. For printers under warranty, this error is generally covered for free repair or replacement. For out-of-warranty units, a print head or main board replacement may be required.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do Epson printers get so many 0x-style errors?

Epson uses hexadecimal codes (starting with 0x) to identify specific internal fault states. These codes map to different components or communication paths inside the printer. Each code helps Epson's engineers and technicians quickly identify which part of the system failed.

My Epson is only 1 year old. Should this be happening?

Critical errors like 0x99 within the first year are not normal and are likely covered under warranty. Epson's standard warranty is one year for most consumer models. Contact Epson Support immediately — they typically replace or repair units showing hardware faults within the warranty period.

Can a power strip or surge protector cause these internal errors?

Yes. Cheap power strips without proper surge protection can pass voltage spikes to the printer. A good-quality surge protector (not just a power strip) is worth the investment for any expensive electronics. For printers, a surge protector rated at 1000 joules or more provides adequate protection.