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

What Does This Error Mean?

Error 0xBB on Epson printers signals an internal hardware fault, typically related to the paper feed mechanism or a motor assembly. The printer has detected that a physical component is not responding or is out of its expected position during startup. A forced restart combined with checking for physical obstructions resolves some cases, but many require professional service.

Affected Models

Epson WorkForce WF-3720
Epson WorkForce Pro WF-4740
Epson XP-640
Epson WorkForce WF-2860
Epson Expression Home XP-4100

Common Causes

The paper feed roller assembly has jammed or seized due to a torn paper scrap lodged inside
The paper feed motor has failed after prolonged use and is not responding to startup commands
A piece of paper or foreign object is blocking the paper path sensor that confirms correct paper movement
The printer was jarred or dropped, causing the paper feed mechanism to come out of alignment
A firmware glitch during a previous print cycle left the motor control registers in a bad state

How to Fix It

Turn off the printer. Open every accessible door — front cover, rear access panel, and any paper tray covers. Look carefully through all paper paths for any torn paper, labels, or foreign objects.

Even a coin-sized piece of torn paper caught behind a roller can jam the feed mechanism and trigger error 0xBB.
Remove the paper tray completely. Inspect the rollers visible from the bottom of the paper tray slot. Spin each roller by hand — they should turn smoothly and feel slightly grippy.

A roller that refuses to turn or feels rough may be the exact component causing the 0xBB error.
Turn the printer back on. Listen carefully during the startup sequence. You should hear the feed rollers spin briefly as part of initialization. If you hear grinding or silence where there should be motor sound, the feed mechanism needs further inspection.

Knowing at exactly what point the error appears helps narrow down which component is failing.
Check for a firmware update for your specific Epson model. Epson has released updates that resolve false 0xBB errors on certain WorkForce models by correcting how the motor controller is initialized.

Use Epson's official Epson Software Updater tool to find and install firmware updates.
Perform a factory reset through the printer's menu. On most Epson WorkForce models, go to Setup > Restore Default Settings > Reset All. After the reset, attempt a test print.

If the printer cannot even complete a factory reset without showing 0xBB, the hardware fault is severe enough to require professional service.

When to Call a Professional

If clearing the paper path and performing a firmware update do not resolve 0xBB, the paper feed motor or its driver circuit on the main board has likely failed. This is an internal repair that requires disassembly and component replacement. Epson's paid repair service or a qualified printer technician is the recommended path forward.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 0xBB a fatal error like 0x97?

It is similarly severe in terms of severity, but 0xBB has a higher chance of being resolved without full hardware replacement. Where 0x97 is almost always a printhead failure, 0xBB more often involves the paper feed mechanism — which is sometimes just a jam or a roller issue. Start with the physical checks before assuming the worst.

The error appeared mid-print, not at startup. Does that change anything?

Yes — an error that appears mid-print rather than at startup suggests a transient problem rather than a complete component failure. A paper jam, a momentary motor stall, or a debris hit mid-feed are all possible causes. Focus on clearing the paper path thoroughly before considering hardware repair.

Does Epson offer free repair for 0xBB errors?

Not typically — unless your printer is within its warranty period (usually one year from purchase). If the printer is under warranty, contact Epson with your proof of purchase. Epson's Customer Care team can arrange a free repair or replacement for units confirmed to have a hardware defect.