Epson Printer Error 0xa8 — Scanner Unit Fault

What Does This Error Mean?

Error 0xa8 is a fatal internal error that appears on Epson multifunction printers when the scanner unit fails to initialize or a scanner sensor detects a fault. Ensuring the scanner lid is closed, removing items from the glass, and doing a full power cycle resolves most cases.

Affected Models

Epson EcoTank ET-4850
Epson EcoTank ET-3850
Epson WorkForce WF-2960
Epson WorkForce WF-7840
Epson Expression Home XP-4200

Common Causes

The scanner lid was open or not fully closed when the printer powered on
An item left on the scanner glass is blocking the scanner lamp from reaching its home position
The scanner carriage is physically stuck or obstructed and cannot complete its startup sweep
The scanner lamp or CIS (Contact Image Sensor) has failed
A firmware fault caused the scanner module to report an error during the power-on self-test

How to Fix It

Open the scanner lid and remove all documents, books, and objects from the scanner glass.

Even a small object in the corner of the glass can block the scanner carriage.
Close the scanner lid firmly until it is fully latched.

A partially open scanner lid causes the printer to shut down with a fatal error on startup.
Turn the printer off and unplug it for 60 seconds.

A full power cycle clears any scanner initialization state that was corrupted.
Plug the printer back in and turn it on. Allow the startup cycle to complete.

You should hear the scanner carriage sweep across the glass during startup. If it is silent, the scanner carriage may be stuck.
If the error persists with the lid closed and glass clear, check for a firmware update in Epson Software Updater.

Some 0xa8 errors are resolved by a firmware update. Connect the printer to your computer and run Epson Software Updater.

When to Call a Professional

If the scanner lid is closed, the glass is clear, and 0xa8 still appears after multiple restarts, the scanner lamp or sensor module has likely failed. Epson service can replace the scanner assembly. Note that on print-only Epson models (no scanner), 0xa8 may indicate a different internal sensor fault.

Frequently Asked Questions

0xa8 appeared after I updated the firmware — is that related?

Yes, firmware updates can occasionally introduce scanner initialization bugs. Check Epson's support forums for reports of 0xa8 after your specific firmware version. If other users report the same issue, Epson usually releases a corrective firmware update.

Can I still use the print function if 0xa8 is showing?

0xa8 is a fatal error that blocks all functions on most Epson models. Unlike some warning codes, fatal errors stop the printer until resolved. Fix the scanner fault first to restore printing.

My Epson printer has no scanner — why is it showing 0xa8?

On print-only Epson models, 0xa8 may be assigned to a different internal sensor. The fix steps (power cycle, checking for obstructions) still apply. If none of them help, the error may be model-specific and require Epson support.