ErrorCodeDoctor
Brother · Printer (Inkjet)

Brother Printer (Inkjet) Cannot Detect Ink / Cannot Detect Ink Volume error code

Difficulty: Easy · Cost: $10–$40 · Duration: 5m

The Cannot Detect Ink or Cannot Detect Ink Volume message on your Brother inkjet printer means the machine cannot detect the ink volume in the cartridge. This is almost always caused by a non-genuine Brother ink cartridge. The machine may not be able to detect ink levels in third-party cartridges. Use a new genuine Brother ink cartridge. If the error is not cleared contact a qualified technician.

Common causes

  • A non-genuine or third-party ink cartridge is installed — the printer cannot read its ink volume

How to fix it

  1. 1

    Replace the cartridge with a new genuine Brother ink cartridge

  2. 2

    If the error persists after installing a genuine cartridge contact a qualified technician

Related Brother Printer (Inkjet) error codes

1

Absorber Near Full / Ink Absorber NearFull

The ink absorber box is nearly full — service will be required soon

hard
2

Ink Absorber Full / Ink Absorber Pad Full

The ink absorber box is completely full — the printer requires service

hard
3

B&W Print Only

One or more color ink cartridges have reached the end of their life — black and white printing only

easy
4

Ink Low

The ink level is low — prepare a replacement ink cartridge

easy

Cannot Detect Ink / Cannot Detect Ink Volume error — frequently asked questions

What does the Cannot Detect Ink / Cannot Detect Ink Volume error mean on a Brother printer (inkjet)?

The printer cannot detect the ink volume — a non-genuine ink cartridge may be installed

What causes the Cannot Detect Ink / Cannot Detect Ink Volume error?

The Cannot Detect Ink / Cannot Detect Ink Volume error is usually caused by: A non-genuine or third-party ink cartridge is installed — the printer cannot read its ink volume.

Can I fix the Cannot Detect Ink / Cannot Detect Ink Volume error myself?

Yes — this is rated an easy fix that most people can do themselves, typically in 5m.

How much does it cost to fix the Cannot Detect Ink / Cannot Detect Ink Volume error?

Fixing the Cannot Detect Ink / Cannot Detect Ink Volume error on a Brother printer (inkjet) typically costs $10–$40, depending on parts and whether you do it yourself or hire a technician.

Is it safe to keep using my printer (inkjet) with the Cannot Detect Ink / Cannot Detect Ink Volume error?

In most cases yes, but it's best to address the Cannot Detect Ink / Cannot Detect Ink Volume error soon — see the fix steps below to resolve it.