Fix Canon Error 5100: Carriage Error
critical Severity: critical
If your Canon printer is displaying error 5100, do not worry – this is a known issue with a proven fix. This error typically indicates carriage error that can usually be resolved without a service call. Follow the steps below to clear this error.
What Causes Canon Error 5100?
This error can be triggered by one or more of the following issues:
- Ink carriage obstructed by jammed paper or foreign object
- Encoder strip dirty or damaged
- Carriage rail needs cleaning and lubrication
- Ink cartridge not seated properly causing carriage misalignment
How to Fix Canon Error 5100
Follow these steps in order. After each step, check whether the error has cleared before proceeding to the next one.
- Step 1: Turn off the printer and open the top cover
- Step 2: Check for and remove any jammed paper or foreign objects in the carriage path
- Step 3: Gently slide the carriage by hand to verify it moves freely
- Step 4: Clean the encoder strip (thin transparent strip) with a lint-free cloth and distilled water
- Step 5: Clean the carriage rail with a lint-free cloth
- Step 6: Reseat all ink cartridges
- Step 7: Close the cover and restart the printer
Affected Canon Printer Models
The following Canon printer models are known to display error 5100:
- Canon PIXMA TR8620a
- Canon PIXMA G7020
- Canon PIXMA TS3520
- Canon PIXMA TS9520
- Canon PIXMA MG3620
- Canon PIXMA G620
Related Canon Error Codes
If you are troubleshooting error 5100, these related error codes may also be relevant:
- 6000 – Paper Feed Error
- B200 – Printhead Voltage Error
- 1403 – Printhead Not Installed Correctly
- 5B00 – Waste Ink Absorber Full
- 1700 – Ink Absorber Almost Full
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Canon error 5100 mean?
Error 5100 on Canon PIXMA printers indicates the ink carriage is obstructed or cannot move properly. This is one of the most common Canon inkjet errors.
How do I fix Canon error 5100?
Open the printer, check for paper jams or obstructions in the carriage path, clean the encoder strip and carriage rail, reseat cartridges, and restart. If the error persists, the carriage motor may need replacement.
Error still not resolved?
If the steps above did not fix the error, the issue may require professional service. Contact the manufacturer support line or visit an authorized service center near you.