Canon Error E13 — What It Means & How to Fix It
Updated July 2026 · Independent PrinterCare USA support guide
Canon Error E13 is frustrating because your printer often works fine otherwise, but refuses to print until the ink level detection system functions properly. This error appears on your printer's display screen and prevents normal printing operations, even when you have plenty of ink remaining in your cartridges.
This error typically stems from three causes: dirty or corroded cartridge contacts, incompatible third-party ink cartridges, or a faulty ink sensor in the printer itself. The good news is that most users can resolve this issue at home within ten minutes using basic tools you already have.
How to fix it — step by step
- Power cycle your printer completely. Turn off your Canon printer using the power button and unplug it from the electrical outlet. Wait for at least thirty seconds to allow the printer's memory to fully reset. Plug the printer back in and power it on, then check if the E13 error has cleared.
- Remove all ink cartridges from the printer. Open your printer's access panel or top cover to expose the cartridge bay. Gently push down on each cartridge until it clicks and release it, allowing it to spring out slightly. Carefully remove each cartridge by pinching the sides and pulling it straight out toward you.
- Clean the cartridge contact points. Examine the gold or copper-colored contacts on the bottom and sides of each cartridge where they connect to the printer. Use a clean, dry, lint-free cloth or coffee filter to gently wipe these contact points until they shine without any visible residue or discoloration. Never use water or cleaning solutions, as moisture can damage the cartridge.
- Inspect the cartridge bay contacts inside the printer. Look inside the empty cartridge bay and locate the metal contacts that align with the cartridge contacts. These are typically small gold or copper pins arranged in rows. Gently wipe these internal contacts with a dry lint-free cloth, being careful not to push too hard or bend any pins.
- Reinstall all cartridges in the correct positions. Insert each cartridge back into its designated slot, pushing firmly until you hear a distinct click indicating it is fully seated. Most Canon printers use color-coded cartridge positions: black, cyan, magenta, and yellow. Verify that each cartridge is installed in the correct color slot according to your printer model's diagram.
- Test with genuine or certified Canon cartridges. If you use third-party or refilled cartridges, the error may persist because some non-genuine cartridges lack proper chip communication. Contact your cartridge supplier or purchase genuine Canon cartridges from authorized retailers to confirm compatibility with your specific printer model.
- Clear the printer's error memory and test printing. Close the cartridge bay access panel and allow the printer to complete its initialization cycle, which typically takes thirty to sixty seconds. Print a test page from your computer or use the printer's built-in test print function to verify that the E13 error has resolved and printing functions normally.
- Contact professional support if error persists. If the E13 error returns after completing all steps above, the fault likely lies with the printer's internal ink sensor or circuit board. A remote technician can diagnose the issue and provide advanced solutions for approximately forty-nine dollars, or you may need in-person service from a certified Canon repair center.
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Frequently asked questions
Why does my Canon printer show Error E13 when I just refilled the cartridges?
Refilled cartridges sometimes lack proper contact between the cartridge chip and the printer's sensor, especially if the refilling process damaged the contact pins. Remove the cartridge, inspect both the cartridge contacts and the printer bay contacts for debris or damage, and clean them thoroughly with a dry cloth. If the error persists, your cartridge may have been damaged during refilling and require replacement.
Can I continue printing if I ignore the Canon E13 error?
Most Canon printers will not allow printing when Error E13 is active, as the system locks out print functions until ink levels can be properly detected. This safety feature exists to prevent damage to the printer from operating with unmonitored ink levels. You must resolve the error before resuming normal printing operations.
Does Error E13 mean my printer's ink sensor is broken?
Not necessarily, though a faulty sensor is one possible cause. In most cases, E13 results from dirty contacts or incompatible cartridges rather than a broken sensor. Try cleaning all contacts and using genuine Canon cartridges first; if the error persists after these steps, then a sensor failure becomes likely and professional diagnosis is recommended.
Are third-party ink cartridges more likely to cause Error E13?
Yes, some third-party and refilled cartridges are manufactured with contact pins that do not align perfectly with your printer model's sensor specifications. Genuine Canon cartridges are specifically engineered to communicate with your printer's ink detection system, while cheaper alternatives may trigger the E13 error even if they work physically. If E13 started after switching to third-party cartridges, switching back to genuine cartridges usually resolves the issue.