ErrorCodeDoctor
HP · Printer (DeskJet)

HP Printer (DeskJet) E3 error code

Difficulty: Easy · Cost: $0 · Duration: 5–10m

The E3 error means your HP DeskJet printer's print carriage — the assembly that holds the ink cartridges and moves back and forth during printing — is jammed or stalled. This is usually caused by a piece of paper, debris, or an object blocking the carriage path. Opening the cartridge access door and carefully removing any obstruction clears the jam in most cases.

Common causes

  • A piece of jammed paper is blocking the carriage path
  • A foreign object is lodged in the carriage area
  • Ink cartridges are improperly installed causing the carriage to stall
  • A piece of torn paper remains inside the printer

How to fix it

  1. 1

    Press the Cancel button to attempt to automatically clear the jam

  2. 2

    If the jam persists open the cartridge access door

  3. 3

    Wait for the carriage to stop moving completely before reaching inside

  4. 4

    Carefully look for and remove any jammed paper, torn paper pieces, or objects blocking the carriage

  5. 5

    Do not touch the ink nozzles or copper-colored contacts on the cartridges

  6. 6

    Remove and reinstall the ink cartridges to ensure they are seated correctly

  7. 7

    Close the cartridge access door and press the Resume button to continue printing

  8. 8

    If the error persists turn the printer off and on again

Related HP Printer (DeskJet) error codes

1

E0

One or both ink cartridges are unusable and need attention

easy
2

E1

The paper size in the print job does not match the paper loaded in the input tray

easy
3

E2

The paper length in the print job does not match the paper loaded in the input tray

easy
4

E4

Paper is jammed inside the printer

easy

E3 error — frequently asked questions

What does the E3 error mean on a HP printer (deskjet)?

The print carriage is jammed or stalled and cannot move

What causes the E3 error?

The E3 error is usually caused by: A piece of jammed paper is blocking the carriage path; A foreign object is lodged in the carriage area; Ink cartridges are improperly installed causing the carriage to stall; A piece of torn paper remains inside the printer.

Can I fix the E3 error myself?

Yes — this is rated an easy fix that most people can do themselves, typically in 5–10m.

How much does it cost to fix the E3 error?

Fixing the E3 error on a HP printer (deskjet) typically costs $0, depending on parts and whether you do it yourself or hire a technician.

Is it safe to keep using my printer (deskjet) with the E3 error?

In most cases yes, but it's best to address the E3 error soon — see the fix steps below to resolve it.