Canon Error E32 — What It Means & How to Fix It
Updated July 2026 · Independent PrinterCare USA support guide
Canon PIXMA printers display error E32 when the memory card reader cannot detect or communicate with an installed memory card. This is one of the most common card-related errors, and in most cases you can resolve it yourself without expensive service calls.
This error typically appears when you try to print photos directly from the memory card, access stored files, or use the printer's card slot features. The good news is that the fix is usually straightforward and takes only a few minutes of your time.
How to fix it — step by step
- Power cycle the printer completely. Turn off your Canon PIXMA printer using the power button and unplug it from the electrical outlet. Wait for at least thirty seconds, then plug it back in and power it on. This simple reset often clears temporary communication errors between the printer and the memory card slot.
- Remove and inspect the memory card. Open the memory card slot door on your PIXMA printer and gently remove the memory card. Examine both sides of the card for any visible dirt, dust, or debris accumulation. Look specifically at the gold contact pins to see if they appear tarnished or discolored.
- Clean the memory card contacts. Use a soft, dry, lint-free cloth to gently wipe the gold contact pins on the back of the memory card. Do not use water, alcohol, or any cleaning solutions. Wipe in one direction from the contacts toward the edge of the card, using light pressure to avoid damaging the pins.
- Clean the slot contacts inside the printer. Take a clean, dry cotton swab and gently wipe the metal contacts inside the memory card slot on the printer itself. Be very gentle and do not force the swab deep into the slot. Allow the contacts to air dry completely before inserting the card back into the slot.
- Reinsert the memory card firmly. Insert the memory card back into the slot with the gold contacts facing into the printer. Push the card in steadily until you hear or feel a click, indicating the card is fully seated. The card should not stick out from the slot opening.
- Test the card with a print job. Load a photo onto your memory card using your computer, then insert the card back into the printer. Try printing a photo directly from the card by using the printer's card printing feature. If the error E32 does not appear and the photo prints successfully, the problem is resolved.
- Try a different compatible memory card. If error E32 still appears, borrow a compatible memory card from a friend or family member and test it in your PIXMA printer. If a different card works without errors, your original memory card may be faulty or incompatible. If the error persists with multiple cards, the card slot hardware may require professional service.
- Contact a technician for hardware replacement. If you have tried all the above steps and the error E32 continues to appear, the memory card slot itself may be damaged or defective. Contact a certified printer repair technician who can diagnose the slot hardware and replace it if necessary. Remote diagnostic support is available starting at $49 per incident.
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Frequently asked questions
What does error E32 mean on a Canon PIXMA printer?
Error E32 indicates that your Canon PIXMA printer cannot detect, read, or communicate properly with the memory card inserted in the card slot. This error prevents you from printing photos directly from the card or accessing files stored on the card through the printer's control panel. The error can be caused by dirty contacts, a loose card connection, or a faulty memory card.
Can I still print normally if I get error E32?
Yes, error E32 only affects the card reading functionality and does not prevent you from printing documents or photos sent wirelessly or through a USB connection from your computer. You can continue to use the printer normally for all other functions. The error only appears when you try to use the memory card slot feature.
What types of memory cards work with Canon PIXMA printers?
Canon PIXMA printers typically support SD cards, SDHC cards, and SDXC cards depending on the specific model. Some older PIXMA models may also support CompactFlash cards. Check your printer's user manual or the Canon support website to confirm which card types your specific model accepts. Using an unsupported card type can trigger error E32.
How much does it cost to fix error E32 professionally?
Remote diagnostic support from a certified technician typically starts at forty-nine dollars per incident, which can often identify and resolve the issue without requiring you to ship the printer. If the memory card slot needs physical replacement, the cost will be higher depending on the specific PIXMA model and your location. Many repairs cost between eighty and one hundred fifty dollars total.