ErrorCodeDoctor
Brother · Printer (Inkjet)

Brother Printer (Inkjet) Cannot Detect / No Ink Cartridge error code

Difficulty: Easy · Cost: $0–$40 · Duration: 5m

The Cannot Detect or No Ink Cartridge message on your Brother inkjet printer means the machine cannot detect an ink cartridge. This is most commonly caused by a cartridge installed too quickly, a used cartridge being reinstalled, an air bubble in a new cartridge, or a non-genuine Brother cartridge. Remove the cartridge and reinstall it slowly and firmly until it clicks. If the error persists try a new genuine Brother cartridge.

Common causes

  • The ink cartridge was installed too quickly and was not detected
  • An ink cartridge is not installed correctly or is not fully seated
  • A used or empty cartridge was reinstalled
  • The new cartridge has an air bubble in it
  • The wrong Brother model ink cartridge was installed
  • A non-genuine Brother ink cartridge is being used

How to fix it

  1. 1

    Open the ink cartridge cover

  2. 2

    Remove the ink cartridge

  3. 3

    If the cartridge is new slowly turn it so the ink supply port points downward to remove any air bubbles then reinstall it

  4. 4

    Reinstall the cartridge slowly and firmly until you hear it click into place

  5. 5

    If using a used cartridge replace it with a new genuine Brother ink cartridge

  6. 6

    Verify the cartridge model number is compatible with your specific Brother printer model

  7. 7

    If the error persists after trying a new 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 / No Ink Cartridge error — frequently asked questions

What does the Cannot Detect / No Ink Cartridge error mean on a Brother printer (inkjet)?

The printer cannot detect an ink cartridge — it is missing, incorrectly installed, or incompatible

What causes the Cannot Detect / No Ink Cartridge error?

The Cannot Detect / No Ink Cartridge error is usually caused by: The ink cartridge was installed too quickly and was not detected; An ink cartridge is not installed correctly or is not fully seated; A used or empty cartridge was reinstalled; The new cartridge has an air bubble in it; The wrong Brother model ink cartridge was installed; A non-genuine Brother ink cartridge is being used.

Can I fix the Cannot Detect / No Ink Cartridge 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 / No Ink Cartridge error?

Fixing the Cannot Detect / No Ink Cartridge error on a Brother printer (inkjet) typically costs $0–$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 / No Ink Cartridge error?

In most cases yes, but it's best to address the Cannot Detect / No Ink Cartridge error soon — see the fix steps below to resolve it.