# 1-866-203-7571 How to Fix Canon Printer Error 5100?
**Canon Printer Support at 1-866-203-7571**
Canon printers are known for their reliable performance, smooth printing, and high-quality output. However, like any electronic device, they can sometimes run into errors. One of the most common issues users face is **Canon Printer Error 5100**. If you’re seeing this error on your Canon PIXMA, MAXIFY, or other Canon model, don’t worry—this is usually an issue that can be easily fixed with the right steps.
Canon Error 5100 mostly appears due to **carriage problems**, **paper obstructions**, **ink absorber issues**, or **dirty printer components**. This detailed 3000-word guide will walk you through all possible causes and proven solutions to fix Canon Printer Error 5100 at home. If you still need assistance after trying the steps, you can also call **Canon printer support at 1-866-203-7571**.
**Canon Printer Support at 1-866-203-7571**
## **Table of Contents**
1. **What Is Canon Printer Error 5100?**
2. **Common Causes of Error 5100**
3. **Quick Fixes to Try First**
4. **Step-by-Step Solutions to Fix Canon Error 5100**
* Clean and reset the print head
* Remove paper jams
* Check the ink cartridge alignment
* Clean the encoder strip
* Reset the Canon printer
* Fix carriage obstruction
* Check for foreign objects
* Clean printer rollers
* Replace faulty ink cartridges
* Service the ink absorber
5. **How to Prevent Canon Error 5100 in the Future**
6. **Canon Models That Commonly Show Error 5100**
7. **When to Call Expert Support**
8. **Conclusion**
**Canon Printer Support at 1-866-203-7571**
# **1. What Is Canon Printer Error 5100?**
Error 5100 is a **carriage movement error**. This means the part of your printer that holds the ink cartridges (called the carriage) is unable to slide properly from side to side. Canon designed the error to alert users that the printer requires maintenance or cleaning.
The error message usually appears as:
* **“Support Code 5100”**
* **“Printer Error Occurred 5100”**
* **“Error Code 5100: Check ink cartridge or printer”**
This problem can occur on many Canon models, including:
* Canon PIXMA Series
* Canon TR, TS, MX, MG, G Series
* Canon MAXIFY Models
* Canon iP Series Printers
Understanding the underlying cause helps you apply the right fix.
**Canon Printer Support at 1-866-203-7571**
# **2. Common Causes of Canon Printer Error 5100**
Canon error 5100 can be caused by a variety of issues. The most common include:
### ✔ **1. Paper Jam or Debris Inside Printer**
Even a tiny scrap of paper or dust can block carriage movement.
### ✔ **2. Faulty or Misaligned Ink Cartridges**
If cartridges are not seated properly, the carriage fails to move.
### ✔ **3. Dirty or Damaged Encoder Strip**
This transparent plastic strip helps the printer detect carriage movement.
### ✔ **4. Obstruction in Carriage Path**
Sometimes small objects like paper clips, pen caps, or labels fall into the printer.
### ✔ **5. Low Lubrication on Carriage Rail**
If the carriage rail is dry, stiff, or sticky, the carriage won’t slide smoothly.
### ✔ **6. Ink Absorber Full**
When the ink absorber gets saturated, several errors can occur including 5100.
### ✔ **7. Dirty Print Head or Roller**
Built-up ink and dust can cause mechanical errors.
### ✔ **8. Encoder Film Smudges**
Ink mist can create smears that make the printer misread the encoder strip.
### ✔ **9. Internal Mechanical Damage**
Rare but possible—broken carriage belt, sensor issues, or mechanical failure.
Once you identify the cause, you can move to the proper solution.
**Canon Printer Support at 1-866-203-7571**
# **3. Quick Fixes You Should Try First**
Before going deep into technical repairs, try these quick troubleshooting steps:
### ✔ **1. Power Cycle the Printer**
1. Turn off the printer
2. Unplug its power cord
3. Wait 2 minutes
4. Plug the cable back in
5. Power it on
This resets sensors and clears temporary glitches.
### ✔ **2. Check Paper Tray**
Ensure there is:
* No torn paper
* No incorrect paper size
* No overfilled tray
### ✔ **3. Reinstall Ink Cartridges**
Remove and reseat the cartridges firmly.
If these don’t fix it, follow the detailed steps below.
**Canon Printer Support at 1-866-203-7571**
# **4. Step-by-Step Solutions to Fix Canon Printer Error 5100**
Here are the most complete and reliable solutions to fix error 5100.
**Canon Printer Support at 1-866-203-7571**
## **Solution 1: Remove Paper Jams & Debris**
A stuck paper piece is one of the top causes of error 5100.
### **Steps:**
1. Turn off the printer
2. Open the top cover
3. Gently inspect the inside
4. Remove any visible:
* Torn paper
* Dust
* Labels
* Stuck envelope pieces
5. Check the rear tray too
6. Move the carriage manually
7. Ensure it moves smoothly left to right
**Canon Printer Support at 1-866-203-7571**
## **Solution 2: Check & Reinstall Ink Cartridges**
Misaligned cartridges often cause the carriage to jam.
### **Steps:**
1. Lift the top lid
2. Wait for the cartridge holder to center
3. Remove cartridges
4. Check for:
* Tape left on contact
* Ink leakage
* Dust on copper contacts
5. Clean contacts gently with a lint-free cloth
6. Reinsert cartridges
7. Close lid and restart printer
**Canon Printer Support at 1-866-203-7571**
## **Solution 3: Clean the Encoder Strip**
The encoder strip is a thin transparent film that directs carriage positioning. If it's dirty, the printer throws error 5100.
### **Steps:**
1. Turn off the printer
2. Open top cover
3. Look for the clear strip behind the carriage rail
4. Use a soft cloth slightly dampened with warm water
5. Gently wipe the strip from left to right
6. Don’t pull or push the strip—it is delicate
Cleaning the strip often fixes the problem instantly.
**Canon Printer Support at 1-866-203-7571**
## **Solution 4: Check for Foreign Objects Inside Printer**
Unexpected objects like paper clips or plastic pieces can fall inside the printer.
### **Steps:**
1. Turn off printer
2. Use a flashlight
3. Inspect deep inside carriage area
4. Remove any foreign objects
5. Also check bottom and rear path
**Canon Printer Support at 1-866-203-7571**
## **Solution 5: Lubricate the Carriage Rail (If Dry)**
A dry rail prevents smooth carriage movement.
### **Steps:**
1. Turn off printer
2. Locate metal carriage rail
3. Apply ONE drop of sewing-machine oil
4. Move carriage manually to spread oil
Do NOT over-apply oil.
**Canon Printer Support at 1-866-203-7571**
## **Solution 6: Clean Printer Rollers**
Dusty rollers stop paper movement and cause carriage strain.
### **Steps:**
1. Go to printer maintenance menu
2. Select **Roller Cleaning**
3. Remove all paper
4. Allow printer to rotate rollers
5. Then load a few papers for final cleaning
**Canon Printer Support at 1-866-203-7571**
## **Solution 7: Reset the Printer to Factory Settings**
A full reset clears mechanical error logs.
### **Steps:**
1. Press and hold **Stop/Reset**
2. Press and hold **Power**
3. Keep holding Power while releasing Stop
4. Press Stop 5 times
5. Release all buttons
6. Wait for reset
**Canon Printer Support at 1-866-203-7571**
## **Solution 8: Clean Print Head and Contact Points**
Ink build-up may cause carriage resistance.
### **Steps:**
1. Remove print head
2. Clean with warm water
3. Dry completely
4. Clean printer contacts
5. Reinstall print head
**Canon Printer Support at 1-866-203-7571**
## **Solution 9: Check Ink Absorber**
A full ink absorber triggers multiple error codes.
If your screen shows messages like:
* “Ink absorber full”
* “Contact service center”
Then error 5100 is related to absorber saturation.
A technician may need to replace or reset the absorber.
**Canon Printer Support at 1-866-203-7571**
## **Solution 10: Replace Faulty Cartridges**
If a cartridge sensor is faulty, it prevents carriage movement.
Replace cartridges if:
* Printer doesn’t detect them
* They show “Low Ink” error despite being full
* They leak ink
* They cause repeated 5100 errors
**Canon Printer Support at 1-866-203-7571**
# **5. How to Prevent Canon Printer Error 5100 in the Future**
Follow these tips to avoid this error:
### ✔ Always use good quality paper
Low-grade paper produces dust that causes jams.
### ✔ Clean your printer regularly
Encoder strip, rollers, and carriage rail should be cleaned monthly.
### ✔ Do not overfill the paper tray
Extra sheets increase chances of jams.
### ✔ Check for loose labels or glue
Sticky materials can get into the carriage area.
### ✔ Use original Canon ink
Cheap ink often leaks and damages sensors.
### ✔ Keep the printer covered
Prevents dust collection on sensitive parts.
**Canon Printer Support at 1-866-203-7571**
# **6. Canon Models That Commonly Show Error 5100**
This error affects many popular models:
### **PIXMA Series**
* MG2522, MG2920, MG3620
* TS3120, TS3322, TS3520, TS7020
* G2020, G3020, G6020
### **MAXIFY Series**
* MB2020
* MB2120
* MB2320
* MB2720
### **Other Models**
* iP Series
* MX Series
Regardless of model, the troubleshooting steps remain similar.
**Canon Printer Support at 1-866-203-7571**
# **7. When Should You Call Canon Support?**
If you’ve tried all troubleshooting steps and still see error 5100, you may need technical support.
Call **Canon Printer Support at 1-866-203-7571** if:
* The carriage is stuck permanently
* The encoder strip is broken
* Printer makes grinding noises
* Ink absorber needs replacement
* Printer won’t reset
* Firmware is corrupted
* The printer is under warranty
Technicians can diagnose internal issues and guide you through advanced repairs.
**Canon Printer Support at 1-866-203-7571**
# **8. Conclusion**
Canon Printer Error 5100 may seem frustrating at first, but in most cases, it is a simple carriage or obstruction issue that can be fixed at home. By following the steps in this guide—checking for debris, cleaning the encoder strip, resetting the printer, reinstalling cartridges, and inspecting the carriage—you can fix the error in just a few minutes.
If the problem persists or you suspect internal hardware failure, don’t hesitate to contact Canon support at **1-866-203-7571** for professional help.
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