When your Canon printer shows “Printer in Error State”(Call 1-801-878-6858 USA), it can completely stop your printing work and create confusion, especially if there is no clear error code displayed. This issue is common on Windows and Mac systems and may occur due to hardware problems, software conflicts, connection issues, or incorrect printer settings.
What Does “Canon Printer in Error State” Mean?
The message “Canon printer in error state” indicates that your printer is unable to complete print jobs due to a detected problem. The error state acts as a protective mechanism to prevent further damage to the printer or poor-quality printing.
This error can appear:
On Windows computers
On Mac systems
In printer queue or device status
During wireless or USB printing
The good news is that most error state issues can be fixed without professional help.
Common Causes of Canon Printer in Error State
Understanding the root cause makes troubleshooting much easier. Below are the most common reasons your Canon printer enters an error state.
1. Paper Jam or Paper Feed Problems
Paper-related issues are the most frequent cause.
Paper jam inside the printer
Torn paper stuck in rollers Incorrect paper size or type
Overloaded paper tray
2. Low Ink or Ink Cartridge Issues
Ink problems can immediately trigger an error state.
Empty ink cartridge
Improperly installed cartridge
Incompatible or third-party ink
Dirty cartridge contacts
3. Printer Offline or Connection Errors
Connectivity issues can falsely show the printer as being in an error state.
USB cable loose or damaged
WiFi disconnected
Printer and computer on different networks
Network interruption
4. Outdated or Corrupt Printer Drivers
Drivers play a critical role in printer communication.
Outdated Canon drivers
Corrupt driver installation
Incorrect driver version for OS
5. Windows or macOS System Errors
Operating system conflicts can cause printer errors.
Windows update issues macOS compatibility problems
Print spooler malfunction
6. Printer Hardware Malfunction
In some cases, the problem is hardware-related.
Faulty printhead Sensor failure Internal mechanical issues
How to Fix Canon Printer in Error State – Step-by-Step Solutions
Solution 1: Restart Printer and Computer
A basic restart can clear temporary glitches.
Turn off the Canon printer
Unplug it from the power source Shut down your computer
Wait 5 minutes
Restart both devices
Check if the error state is resolved.
Solution 2: Check Printer for Paper Jams
Power off the printer
Open all access covers
Carefully remove jammed paper
Check rollers for torn pieces
Close all covers properly
Restart the printer
Solution 3: Inspect Ink Cartridges
Open the printer cover
Remove all ink cartridges
Check ink levels
Clean contacts gently
Reinstall cartridges securely
Replace empty cartridges if needed
Solution 4: Set Canon Printer as Default
On Windows
Open Control Panel > Devices and Printers
Right-click your Canon printer
Select Set as Default Printer
On Mac
Open System Settings > Printers & Scanners
Select your Canon printer
Set it as the default
Solution 5: Disable “Use Printer Offline” Option (Windows)
Open Devices and Printers
Right-click the Canon printer
Select See what’s printing
Click Printer menu
Uncheck Use Printer Offline
Solution 6: Check USB or Wireless Connection
USB Connection
Reconnect USB cable securely
Try a different USB port
Replace damaged cables
Wireless Connection
Ensure printer and computer are on the same
WiFi Restart router
Reconnect printer to WiFi
Solution 7: Restart Print Spooler Service (Windows)
Press Windows + R Type services.msc
Find Print Spooler
Right-click and restart
Solution 8: Update or Reinstall Canon Printer Drivers
For Windows
Open Device Manager
Expand Printers
Uninstall Canon printer
Download latest drivers from Canon website
Install and restart system
For Mac
Open Printers & Scanners
Remove the Canon printer
Add the printer again
macOS installs updated drivers automatically
Solution 9: Run Printer Troubleshooter (Windows)
Open Settings > Update & Security
Select Troubleshoot
Run Printer Troubleshooter
Solution 10: Reset Canon Printer
Resetting can clear persistent errors.
Turn off the printer
Press and hold the Stop/Cancel button
Turn on the printer while holding the button
Release after reset Reconnect printer afterward.
Fix Canon Printer Error State on Mac
Mac users may face error states due to driver or permission issues.
Steps:
Remove the printer from Printers & Scanners
Restart Mac Add the printer again
Reset printing system if needed
Advanced Troubleshooting for Persistent Error State
Firmware Update
Visit Canon official website
Download latest firmware for your model
Follow update instructions carefully
Hardware Inspection
Check for unusual noises
Inspect internal components
Contact Canon service if hardware fault is suspected
Tips to Prevent Canon Printer Error State
Use genuine Canon ink cartridges
Keep printer firmware updated
Avoid paper overloading
Clean printer regularly
Shut down printer properly
Warnings
Do not force paper removal
Avoid interrupting firmware updates
Do not ignore repeated error states
Avoid unauthorized repair attempts
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why does my Canon printer keep showing error state?
This usually happens due to paper jams, ink issues, driver problems, or connectivity errors.
Can outdated drivers cause error state?
Yes, outdated or incompatible drivers are a major cause of printer error states.
Is printer error state a hardware failure?
Not always. Most cases are software or settings-related and can be fixed at home.
Should I reset my Canon printer?
Resetting helps when other troubleshooting steps fail, but it should not be done frequently.
Conclusion:
A Canon printer in error state can be frustrating, but it is usually fixable with the right approach. By carefully checking paper, ink, connections, drivers, and settings, most users can resolve the issue without professional assistance. Regular maintenance and correct usage significantly reduce the chances of error states in the future. With this complete guide, you can confidently troubleshoot and fix Canon printer error state problems and restore smooth, reliable printing.