How to Fix: Paper Feed Issues
The printer fails to pick up paper from the tray, feeds multiple sheets at once, or feeds paper crookedly. Paper feed problems prevent printing and can lead to paper jams if not corrected. These issues are commonly caused by worn rollers or incorrect paper loading. This guide walks you through the most common causes and step-by-step solutions to fix paper feed issues on any printer, regardless of brand or model.
Common Causes
This problem is most often caused by one or more of the following:
- Worn paper pick-up rollers with reduced friction
- Paper guides not properly adjusted to the paper size
- Paper is stuck together due to static or humidity
- Wrong paper size or type loaded for the selected tray
- Separation pad worn out, allowing multiple sheets to feed simultaneously
Step-by-Step Solution
Follow these steps to diagnose and fix the issue. Test your printer after each step.
- Step 1: Remove the paper stack, fan it thoroughly to separate sheets, and reload it
- Step 2: Adjust the paper guides to fit snugly against the paper without being too tight
- Step 3: Clean the paper pick-up rollers with a lint-free cloth dampened with distilled water
- Step 4: Verify the correct paper size is selected in both the printer settings and the driver
- Step 5: Do not overfill the tray — keep paper below the maximum fill line
- Step 6: Try a fresh ream of paper, as old or stored paper can absorb moisture and stick together
- Step 7: If rollers are worn smooth, replace the paper pick-up roller kit for your printer model
Brand-Specific Troubleshooting
Some printer brands require slightly different troubleshooting approaches. See the brand-specific guidance below.
Hp Printers
HP LaserJet roller kits are available as user-replaceable maintenance kits. For HP inkjet printers, the paper feed rollers are accessible from the rear panel on most models. HP’s pick roller replacement instructions are available in the printer’s service manual.
For more Hp-specific troubleshooting, visit our Hp Printer Troubleshooting hub.
Canon Printers
Canon printers have a paper feed cleaning function in the maintenance menu that runs a cleaning sheet through the rollers. Use plain A4/Letter paper for this cleaning cycle. Canon’s rear tray printers may benefit from adjusting the paper thickness lever.
For more Canon-specific troubleshooting, visit our Canon Printer Troubleshooting hub.
Epson Printers
Epson printers have a ‘Paper Guide Cleaning’ utility in the printer driver’s Maintenance tab. This runs paper through the feed mechanism to clean the rollers. Epson rear-feed printers are particularly sensitive to paper curl — use flat, uncurled paper.
For more Epson-specific troubleshooting, visit our Epson Printer Troubleshooting hub.
Brother Printers
Brother laser printers may feed multiple sheets when the separation pad is worn. The separation pad is user-replaceable on most Brother models and is included in the paper feed kit. Check Brother’s parts ordering page for your model’s specific kit.
For more Brother-specific troubleshooting, visit our Brother Printer Troubleshooting hub.
Related Problems
Users experiencing paper feed issues often encounter these related issues:
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my printer keep pulling multiple sheets of paper?
Multiple sheet feeding is caused by worn separation pads, static electricity between sheets, or paper that has absorbed humidity. Fan the paper stack thoroughly before loading, keep paper stored in its wrapper until use, and ensure the tray is not overfilled. If the problem persists, the separation pad or pick rollers likely need replacement.
How do I clean printer feed rollers?
Turn off and unplug the printer. Locate the feed rollers inside the paper tray area. Dampen a lint-free cloth with distilled water (not soaking wet) and gently rub the rollers while rotating them. Do not use alcohol or cleaners, as these can degrade the rubber. Allow rollers to dry completely before using the printer. Some printers also have a built-in roller cleaning function.
How often do paper feed rollers need to be replaced?
Paper feed rollers typically last 100,000 to 200,000 pages on laser printers and 30,000 to 50,000 pages on inkjet printers. Signs of wear include frequent misfeeds, multiple sheet feeds, and the rubber feeling smooth or shiny. Replacement roller kits are available from the manufacturer and are generally straightforward to install.
Need brand-specific help?
This guide covers the general fix. For model-specific instructions, find your printer brand below and navigate to your exact model for tailored troubleshooting steps.