Have a Canon printer and no biggie you suddenly get smacked with an Error 5200? This one is quite common on a wide variety of Canon machines, including the PIXMA range, but the great news is that it’s generally an easy one to resolve with a few simple techniques.
In this blog, we’ll dive into Fix Canon Printer Error 5200, why it’s happening (hint: it’s a common problem), as well as how you can go about fixing it without a tech degree. Let’s put your printer back to work!
Read: Fix Brother Printer Troubleshooting
What Is Canon Printer Error 5200?
Canon Error 5200 is generally an ink system issue or a temperature sensor issue. Usually, it shows up because the printer believes it’s overheating or is running low on ink, even if that isn’t the case.
This mistake often leads to your printer not printing anything and instead flashing warning lights or warnings on the monitor.
Common Issues to Fix Canon Printer Error 5200
To troubleshoot the error, it helps to know what is potentially causing it. So, why does Error 5200 occur? Below are some of the most common reasons:
- Low or Empty Ink Cartridges – Occasionally Canon printers will not read the ink levels correctly.
- Print Head Overheating – Due to long-term use or electrical issues.
- Bad Logic Board – Uncommon, but the logic board can also be at fault.
- Obstructed or Dirty Cartridges – If the ink is allowed to pool your sensor won’t function correctly.
Solution 1: Reset Your Printer
This is the simplest approach and often resolves the issue instantly.
Steps:
- Turn off your Canon printer
- Disconnect it from the source of electrical power.
- Wait for about 1–2 minutes.
- Plug the printer back in and power it on.
This simple reset resolves any transient faults that may be triggering the error.
Solution 2: Clean the Ink Cartridge
Occasionally, if the cartridges are simply too dirty or if they are clogged, the printer will not be able to detect them properly.
Steps:
- Shut down the printer and then open the cartridge access.
- Remove the ink cartridges.
- You’ll want to lightly wipe the cartridge nozzles and contacts with a soft cloth moistened with rubbing alcohol.
- Let them dry and reinstall.
Ensure that the cartridges sit in the slots firmly when you install them.
Solution 3: Try a Manual Reset Sequence
Some Canon printers do need to be reset differently (known as the logic reset). This seems to be the case with at least some models.
Procedure (may be slightly different in variations of the model):
- Turn off the printer.
- Hold down the Stop/Reset button.
- Press and hold the Stop/Reset button, and press and hold the Power button.
- Continue to hold the Power button and press the Stop/Reset button.
- Hit the Stop/Reset button twice.
- Release all buttons.
- The printer should display “0” as the number of pages until the next error.
On entering the service mode, the printer error history gets erased allowing you to power off the printer to see whether the error is no more.
Solution 4: Replace or Replenish Ink
Your printer is responsible for convincing you that you’re out of ink, even when you’re not; it’s so good at what it does that I’m worried that if there’s a printer conspiracy, the printer is the one pulling the strings. If you think you’re good on ink, add a fresh cartridge or try filling up yours (assuming it’s a refillable variety).
Make sure to:
- Use compatible Canon ink cartridges or some reputable third-party inks.
- Align the cartridges correctly after installation.
- Manually reset the ink level (some models can do this using software or by using a button combo).
Solution 5: Get in Touch with Canon for Support
If all else fails, there may be a more serious issue at play, such as a defective logic board or damaged print head. Well, in this case, you are probably better off calling the Canon Service or visiting a licensed technician.
Preventing Error 5200 in the Future
To avoid seeing Error 5200 again, try these tips:
- Clean your printer and toner cartridges regularly.
- Don’t allow the ink to run too low before refilling or replacing.
- Don’t print too many copies in one go to overheat the printer.
- When the printer is not being used, you should simply power it off.
Final Thoughts
Fix Canon Printer Error 5200, however, it is generally nothing to worry about. You can correct the issue simply in no time with a few easy steps like resetting the printer, cleaning the cartridges, or updating the ink.