ErrorCodeDoctor
Brother · Printer (Inkjet)

Brother Printer (Inkjet) Cannot Print XX / Cannot Clean XX / Cannot Start XX / Cannot Initialize XX error code

Difficulty: Medium · Cost: $0–$200 · Duration: 5–10m

The Cannot Print, Cannot Clean, Cannot Start, or Cannot Initialize message on your Brother inkjet printer means the machine has detected a mechanical problem or a foreign object such as a paper clip or torn paper scrap is inside. Open the scanner cover and remove any foreign objects or paper scraps. If the error persists disconnect the power for several minutes then reconnect. If you cannot print and have stored faxes transfer them before disconnecting.

Common causes

  • A foreign object such as a paper clip or piece of torn paper is inside the machine
  • A mechanical fault has occurred in the print mechanism

How to fix it

  1. 1

    Open the scanner cover and carefully inspect the inside of the machine

  2. 2

    Remove any foreign objects, paper clips, or torn paper scraps

  3. 3

    Close the scanner cover

  4. 4

    If the error message continues disconnect the machine from power for several minutes then reconnect

  5. 5

    If you have important faxes stored in memory transfer them to another fax machine or PC before disconnecting

  6. 6

    If the error persists after power cycling 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 Print XX / Cannot Clean XX / Cannot Start XX / Cannot Initialize XX error — frequently asked questions

What does the Cannot Print XX / Cannot Clean XX / Cannot Start XX / Cannot Initialize XX error mean on a Brother printer (inkjet)?

The printer has a mechanical problem or a foreign object is inside the machine

What causes the Cannot Print XX / Cannot Clean XX / Cannot Start XX / Cannot Initialize XX error?

The Cannot Print XX / Cannot Clean XX / Cannot Start XX / Cannot Initialize XX error is usually caused by: A foreign object such as a paper clip or piece of torn paper is inside the machine; A mechanical fault has occurred in the print mechanism.

Can I fix the Cannot Print XX / Cannot Clean XX / Cannot Start XX / Cannot Initialize XX error myself?

It's possible for a moderately handy person, but budget 5–10m and expect some disassembly.

How much does it cost to fix the Cannot Print XX / Cannot Clean XX / Cannot Start XX / Cannot Initialize XX error?

Fixing the Cannot Print XX / Cannot Clean XX / Cannot Start XX / Cannot Initialize XX error on a Brother printer (inkjet) typically costs $0–$200, 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 Print XX / Cannot Clean XX / Cannot Start XX / Cannot Initialize XX error?

In most cases yes, but it's best to address the Cannot Print XX / Cannot Clean XX / Cannot Start XX / Cannot Initialize XX error soon — see the fix steps below to resolve it.