Epson Printer Error Code W-13 — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

Epson error W-13 means the printer cannot recognize one or more installed ink cartridges. The printer sees that a cartridge is physically present but cannot read its chip or identify it. This usually happens with third-party cartridges, dirty contacts, or a cartridge meant for a different model.

Affected Models

Epson EcoTank ET-2800
Epson WorkForce WF-2960
Epson Expression Home XP-4200
Epson Expression Photo XP-8700
Epson WorkForce WF-7840

Common Causes

A third-party or refilled cartridge has a chip that the printer does not recognize
The cartridge's green chip has dirty or damaged electrical contacts
The contacts inside the printer's cartridge slot are dirty or have dried ink on them
The cartridge was installed for the wrong model — different models use different cartridge numbers
The cartridge is defective and its chip cannot communicate properly with the printer

How to Fix It

Open the cartridge cover and remove the cartridge that is not being recognized. Check the printer display to see which slot has the problem.

Handle the cartridge by its sides. Do not touch the green chip or the ink nozzle area.
Gently wipe the green chip on the cartridge with a dry lint-free cloth. Also wipe the matching contacts inside the printer's cartridge slot.

Dirty contacts are the most common reason a cartridge is not recognized. A clean contact makes a big difference.
Reinsert the cartridge firmly until you hear a click. Close the cartridge cover and check if the error clears.

If the cartridge is not fully seated, the chip will not make proper contact with the printer's reader.
Verify you have the correct cartridge for your model. Check the cartridge number printed on the cartridge against the number listed in your printer manual.

Epson cartridge numbers vary by region too. A European cartridge will not work in a US-model printer.
If using a third-party cartridge, try a genuine Epson cartridge instead. Some third-party chips are not compatible with newer Epson firmware.

Epson firmware updates sometimes block third-party cartridges that previously worked fine.

When to Call a Professional

W-13 is usually fixable at home by cleaning or replacing the cartridge. If the error persists with a genuine new cartridge, the printer's cartridge reader may be faulty. A technician can test and repair this for $40 to $70.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my Epson reject third-party cartridges?

Epson printers read a chip on each cartridge to verify it. Third-party cartridges use cloned chips that may not match the printer's expectations. Epson firmware updates can change what chips are accepted. If a third-party cartridge stops working after an update, this is likely the reason.

Can a firmware update cause W-13?

Yes, this is a known issue. Epson periodically releases firmware updates that change cartridge authentication. After an update, previously working third-party cartridges may stop being recognized. You can try downgrading the firmware, but this is an advanced step.

What if my genuine Epson cartridge triggers W-13?

First, clean the contacts on both the cartridge and the printer slot. Try removing and reinstalling the cartridge a few times. If it still does not work, the cartridge may be defective. Contact Epson support or return it to the store for a replacement.