How to Fix Canon Printer Error 5B00 – Quick & Working Guide

Canon printers are known for their reliable performance and high-quality output, but like any device, they can run into issues. One of the most common problems users face is the Canon printer error 5B00, which typically appears when the internal waste ink absorber becomes full. When this happens, the printer may stop working until the issue is fixed. In this blog, you’ll learn what causes this problem, how to fix it safely, and how to prevent it from returning.

If you have also come across the Canon E59 Error, keep in mind that it relates more to printhead or alignment issues and is different from the 5B00 warning. You can explore a detailed step-by-step fix in this guide on how to resolve the Canon E59 error.

What is the Canon Printer Error 5B00?

The error occurs when the printer’s internal waste ink absorber reaches its capacity. Canon inkjet printers are equipped with a waste ink absorber system, which is designed to collect excess ink during printhead cleaning, nozzle cleaning, and other maintenance tasks. Over time, as the printer performs these cleaning cycles or flushes ink, the absorber fills up with ink.

When the absorber reaches its full capacity, the printer's built-in counter triggers the 5B00 error, signaling that it’s time to address the issue. This error often appears as the Canon ink absorber full error, which essentially means that the ink absorber pads are full and need to be cleaned or replaced. If you ignore this error, it can lead to ink leakage inside the printer and permanent damage.

Why Does the Canon Printer Error 5B00 Happen?

There are a few reasons why this error occurs:

• Frequent Printhead Cleanings: Every time you run a cleaning cycle, a small amount of ink is flushed out of the printhead and absorbed into the waste ink absorber. Over time, repeated cleanings cause the absorber to fill up.
   
• Heavy Printing Volume: If you print many pages regularly, the waste ink absorber will fill up much faster than it would for light users.
   
• Aging Printer Models: As printers get older, they might reach the limit of their waste ink counter, even if the pads themselves haven’t reached capacity.
   
• Lack of Maintenance: If the printer isn’t cleaned regularly, excess ink can accumulate inside the system, leading to quicker saturation of the waste ink absorber.

While this issue is common, it’s also something that can be easily fixed with the right steps.

How to Fix Canon Printer Error 5B00 (Canon Ink Absorber Full Error)

Step 1: Reset the Waste Ink Counter

The first step to fixing the Canon printer error 5B00 is to try resetting the waste ink counter. This step works for some users and can allow the printer to bypass the error temporarily. Here's how you can do it:

1. Turn off the printer and unplug it from the power source.
    
2. Press and hold the Power button while plugging the printer back into the power outlet. Keep the Power button held down until the printer turns on.
    
3. Release the Power button, then press the Stop/Reset button five times in quick succession.
    
4. Release the Power button and turn the printer off again.
    
5. Wait for a few seconds, then turn the printer back on.
    

This reset may allow the printer to resume functioning, but it does not actually address the issue of the waste ink absorber being full. It’s a temporary fix and may need to be done again later.

Step 2: Enter Service Mode and Perform a Reset

If resetting the waste ink counter doesn’t resolve the error, you can try accessing the printer’s service mode. Service mode allows you to reset the waste ink counter more thoroughly. This method works for some older Canon printer models. Here's how to do it:

1. Turn off the printer.
    
2. Press and hold the Stop/Reset button while simultaneously pressing the Power button.
    
3. Release the Stop button but continue holding the Power button.
    
4. Press the Stop button 2–5 times (depending on your model), then release the Power button.
    
5. The printer should now enter service mode. You will need to use specialized software, such as the WIC Reset Utility, to reset the waste ink counter.
    
6. Turn off the printer and then power it back on.
    

This method is often effective in resetting the waste ink counter, but it is generally more advanced and may void your warranty if not done correctly. Newer printer models may have restricted access to service mode.

Step 3: Clean or Replace the Waste Ink Absorber Pads

If resetting the counter does not resolve the error, you will need to clean or replace the waste ink absorber pads. These pads accumulate ink during printhead cleaning cycles, and when they become saturated, they trigger the error. Here’s how to clean or replace the waste ink absorber:

1. Turn off and unplug the printer.
    
2. Open the printer casing (usually near the printhead or bottom area) to locate the waste ink absorber pads.
    
3. Remove the absorber pads, which are often made of sponge-like material.
    
4. Rinse the pads under lukewarm water until the ink runs clear. Use gloves to avoid staining your hands with ink.
    
5. Let the pads dry completely, which can take anywhere from 24–48 hours.
    
6. Once the pads are fully dry, reinstall them and reassemble the printer.
    
7. Perform a reset using service mode or another reset method to clear the waste ink counter.
    

If cleaning the pads doesn’t solve the issue, you may need to replace the pads entirely. Replacement kits for waste ink absorbers are available from third-party suppliers. Be sure to buy the correct pads for your printer model.

Step 4: Canon Printer Maintenance Error

The Canon printer maintenance error can occur when performing repairs or cleaning on your printer, especially after resetting or cleaning the waste ink absorber. If the maintenance error persists, there are a few things you can check:

• Check the printhead: Ensure that the printhead is clean and properly aligned. Misaligned or clogged printheads can cause maintenance errors to appear.
   
• Perform a firmware update: Sometimes, Canon releases updates that can resolve maintenance errors related to printer performance.
   
• Run a printhead cleaning cycle: If you haven't run a printhead cleaning recently, try performing a cleaning cycle to clear out any potential clogs. However, avoid overusing the cleaning function, as it can quickly fill the waste ink absorber.
  
   

Step 5: Contact Canon for Further Assistance

If none of the above steps resolve the issue, it may be necessary to get help directly from Canon printer support. If your printer is still under warranty, the repair or replacement may be covered. For out-of-warranty models, Canon can guide you on whether the device should be repaired or if replacing it would be a more cost-effective option.

Preventing Future 5B00 Errors

Once you’ve fixed the error 5B00, it’s important to take some preventive measures to avoid this error in the future. Here are a few tips:

• Limit printhead cleanings: Only perform cleaning cycles when necessary. Excessive cleaning uses up the waste ink absorber quickly.
   
• Use your printer regularly: Regular printing can help prevent excessive cleaning cycles and prevent the waste ink absorber from filling too quickly.
   
• Update the printer’s firmware: Ensure that your printer is using the latest firmware version, as Canon frequently releases updates that can improve printer performance and resolve minor errors.
   
• Print in batches: Instead of printing small jobs frequently, print in batches to reduce the number of cleanings that the printer performs.
   
• Monitor ink levels: Keep an eye on your ink levels. Low ink can sometimes cause the printer to run unnecessary cleaning cycles, which can accelerate the filling of the waste ink absorber.

By taking these preventive measures, you can extend the life of your printer and reduce the frequency of the Canon ink absorber full error.

Conclusion

The Canon printer error 5B00 can be frustrating, but it’s definitely fixable. By following the steps in this guide—such as resetting the waste ink counter and cleaning or replacing the waste ink absorber pads—you can usually resolve the issue and get your printer working again. If the problem continues even after trying all troubleshooting methods, it may be time to seek help from a certified Canon technician who can check the internal components and ensure everything is functioning properly.

Regular maintenance and careful management of your printer can help prevent future issues and extend the life of your device.