HP Error E5 — What It Means & How to Fix It
Updated July 2026 · Independent PrinterCare USA support guide
The E5 error on HP DeskJet printers is frustrating because it shuts down your entire scanning capability without obvious cause. This error almost always means the scanner module has encountered an internal fault, whether from a loose connection, outdated firmware, or genuine hardware degradation.
The good news is that most E5 errors can be resolved through straightforward troubleshooting steps that take less than thirty minutes. We'll walk you through each solution from simplest to most involved, so you can get back to scanning without unnecessary expense or downtime.
How to fix it — step by step
- Perform a Complete Power Cycle. Turn off your HP DeskJet using the power button on the front panel. Unplug the power cable from the wall outlet and wait a full two minutes to allow capacitors to discharge. Plug the printer back in and power it on normally, then attempt a test scan to see if the error has cleared.
- Check the Scanner Cable Connection. Power off the printer and open the scanner lid completely. Look underneath the lid and locate the flat ribbon cable that connects the scanner assembly to the main circuit board. Gently press down on both ends of this cable where it plugs in to ensure it is fully seated, then close the lid and power on the printer.
- Clean the Scanner Glass and Sensors. Power off the printer and let it cool for five minutes. Use a soft, lint-free cloth slightly dampened with distilled water to gently wipe the glass scanning surface on the underside of the lid. Also wipe the white sensor strip that runs along the bottom edge of the scan area, as dust accumulation can sometimes trigger false error readings.
- Update or Reinstall Printer Drivers on Windows. On Windows 11, go to Settings, then Devices, then Printers and Scanners. Click your HP DeskJet in the list, select Printer Properties, and check for any available updates. Alternatively, visit the HP support website, enter your printer model number, and download the latest full software suite from the Drivers and Downloads section.
- Update or Reinstall Printer Drivers on macOS. On macOS, go to System Settings, then Printers and Scanners, and select your HP DeskJet. Click the Options and Supplies button, then the Driver tab, and look for any software updates. If none are available, remove the printer entirely and download the latest HP Smart app from the Mac App Store to reinstall with current drivers.
- Perform a Hard Reset on the Printer. Power off the printer completely and unplug it. Hold down the power button for ten seconds to clear residual power from the logic board. Wait five minutes, then plug in the printer and power it on, allowing it to run through its full boot sequence before attempting any operations.
- Check for Firmware Updates Through HP Smart App. Open the HP Smart app on your computer, select your printer from the device list, and navigate to Printer Settings or Maintenance. Look for a Firmware Update or Software Update option and allow any available updates to install completely. The printer will restart automatically during this process, so keep it plugged in and do not turn it off.
- Contact HP Technical Support for Hardware Diagnosis. If the error persists after all these steps, the scanner module likely has a hardware failure that requires professional service. Contact HP support directly at the phone number on your printer or through the HP website. Remote support technicians can perform deeper diagnostics and may recommend repair or replacement, with remote assistance sessions typically costing forty-nine dollars for out-of-warranty service.
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Frequently asked questions
Does the E5 error mean I need to replace my printer?
Not necessarily. While E5 indicates a scanner fault, most cases are resolved through power cycling, cable reseating, or driver updates. True hardware failure requiring replacement is less common than temporary faults, so complete all basic troubleshooting before considering replacement.
Can I still print if I get the E5 error?
Yes, printing should work normally even with an E5 scanner error. The E5 error affects only the scanning function, so you can continue using your HP DeskJet for printing documents. However, any attempt to scan or copy will fail until you resolve the error.
Why does my E5 error come back after I fix it?
Intermittent E5 errors usually indicate a loose scanner cable or aging hardware that is beginning to fail. If the error returns repeatedly, the cable may need to be fully reseated or replaced, or the scanner module itself may be degrading and will eventually require service.
Is there a way to fix the E5 error without opening the printer?
Yes, start with power cycling, driver updates, and the HP Smart app diagnostics, as these can resolve many E5 errors without opening the printer case. Only if these fail should you open the scanner lid to check the cable connection, which is a non-invasive inspection that takes one minute.