Canon Error 1300 — What It Means & How to Fix It
Updated July 2026 · Independent PrinterCare USA support guide
Canon's error 1300 is one of the most common jam messages you'll encounter, and it usually appears right when you need to print something important. This error specifically points to paper or debris caught in the front cover assembly or output slot—the area where your finished pages exit the machine. The good news is that in most cases, you can fix this yourself in under ten minutes without special tools.
The frustrating part is that sometimes the jam is completely cleared, but the error code remains because the printer's sensors haven't reset. This guide will walk you through both clearing the physical jam and resetting your Canon printer so it recognizes that the problem is solved.
How to fix it — step by step
- Power off and unplug your printer. Turn off your Canon printer using the power button, then wait five seconds and unplug it from the electrical outlet. This ensures your safety while you work inside the machine and allows the sensors to reset. Leave it unplugged for at least thirty seconds before proceeding to the next step.
- Open the front cover completely. Locate the front cover release lever or button on your Canon printer's lower front panel and pull it toward you firmly. The entire front cover should swing open, giving you clear access to the paper path and output area. Do not force the cover if it seems stuck, as this can damage the hinges.
- Remove visible paper and debris from the output slot. Look directly into the output slot where paper normally exits and remove any torn pieces, crumpled paper, or debris you can see. Use a flashlight if the area is dimly lit so you do not miss small fragments. Gently pull any stuck paper straight out rather than at an angle, and do not use tools like tweezers or scissors that could scratch internal components.
- Check and clean the rubber rollers. Examine the rubber rollers inside the output area for debris, dust, or sticky residue that might trigger the jam sensor. If you see buildup, dampen a lint-free cloth with distilled water and gently wipe each roller while rotating it by hand. Allow the rollers to air dry completely before closing the cover.
- Inspect the rear access cover. Open the rear access cover of your Canon printer if your model has one, as paper sometimes wraps around the fuser assembly near the back. Carefully look for any shredded paper or jams in this area and remove them with the same gentle technique as the front. Close the rear cover securely once you have cleared any obstructions.
- Close all covers and plug the printer back in. Push the front cover closed until you hear or feel it latch firmly into place, then plug the power cord back into the outlet. Press the power button to turn the printer on and allow it to complete its startup sequence, which may take thirty to forty seconds. The printer should run a brief calibration cycle automatically.
- Clear the error code from printer memory. On your Canon printer's control panel, navigate to the menu, find the settings or maintenance section, and look for an option to clear error codes or reset the jam sensor. The exact menu path varies by model, but common names include Reset, Maintenance, or Device Settings. Select the option to clear the jam error and confirm the action.
- Run a test print. Print a single test page using Windows 11 by opening Settings, selecting Devices, then Printers and Scanners, finding your Canon printer, and clicking Print a Test Page. On macOS, open System Settings, select Printers and Scanners, choose your Canon printer, and click the Print Test Page button. If the page prints without the error 1300 message, the jam is fully cleared.
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Frequently asked questions
I cleared the paper jam but error 1300 still appears when I try to print. What should I do?
The paper jam sensor may still be triggered even though the physical jam is gone. Unplug the printer again for two minutes to allow the sensor to fully reset, then plug it back in and attempt a test print. If the error persists, the sensor itself may be faulty and require professional service, which Canon-authorized technicians or remote support services can diagnose for around $49.
Is it safe to reach inside my Canon printer to remove paper?
Yes, it is safe as long as the printer is powered off and unplugged from the outlet before you begin. Never attempt to clear a jam while the printer is on or in sleep mode, and avoid touching the fuser area near the rear of the machine, which becomes very hot during operation. If you feel uncomfortable opening your printer, professional technicians can clear the jam safely.
How can I prevent error 1300 from happening again?
Always use paper that meets your Canon printer's specifications, typically twenty-pound white copy paper, and store paper in a dry location to prevent moisture curling. Do not overfill the input tray beyond the marked maximum line, and fan the paper stack before loading it to prevent sheets from sticking together. If you frequently experience jams, the pickup roller may be worn and may need replacement by a technician.
What if error 1300 appears but there is no visible paper jam inside the printer?
A phantom jam error usually means the sensors are dirty or misaligned and need professional calibration. Before calling for service, try powering off the printer, waiting five minutes, and powering it back on to reset the sensors. If the error reappears immediately without an actual jam, the sensor itself has likely failed and requires replacement or professional repair through Canon support or an authorized technician.