Canon Printer Error Code E10 — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

The E10 error means your Canon printer's ink absorber is almost full. The ink absorber is a sponge inside the printer that soaks up excess ink during cleaning cycles. When it gets close to full, the printer warns you with this code. You can still print for a while, but the absorber will need to be replaced soon.

Affected Models

Canon PIXMA TS3500 Series
Canon PIXMA TR4700 Series
Canon PIXMA G3000 Series
Canon PIXMA MG2500 Series
Canon PIXMA TS5300 Series

Common Causes

The ink absorber pads have soaked up a large amount of waste ink over time from regular use
You have run many printhead cleaning cycles, which dump extra ink into the absorber
The printer has been used heavily for a long period without the absorber being serviced
Deep cleaning or nozzle check operations have accelerated ink waste buildup
The ink absorber counter has reached its warning threshold based on estimated ink usage

How to Fix It

Press the Resume or Stop button on the printer to dismiss the warning temporarily. The printer should let you continue printing.

This only works while the absorber is 'almost full.' Once it reaches full capacity, the printer will stop entirely.
Reduce printhead cleaning cycles. Only run cleaning when print quality is visibly poor.

Each cleaning cycle dumps ink into the absorber. Fewer cleanings means more time before it fills up.
Check if your Canon model allows a user-accessible ink absorber reset. Some models have a reset process in the service menu.

Search for your exact model number plus 'ink absorber reset' online. Not all models support this.
If you are comfortable with DIY repairs, some users replace the absorber pads themselves. Replacement pads are available online for a few dollars.

This requires opening the printer and is not officially supported by Canon. Proceed at your own risk.
Contact Canon support or an authorized service center to have the ink absorber professionally replaced and the counter reset.

This is the safest and most reliable option. Canon can also inspect the printer for other wear issues.

When to Call a Professional

The ink absorber cannot be easily replaced at home on most Canon models. Canon recommends contacting an authorized service center to replace the absorber pads. Service typically costs $40 to $80 depending on your model. Some users reset the counter themselves, but this risks ink overflow.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an ink absorber and why does it fill up?

The ink absorber is a set of sponge pads inside the printer. When you run cleaning cycles or the printer maintains itself, excess ink drains into these pads. Over months or years of use, the pads fill up with waste ink.

Can I keep printing after seeing the E10 error?

Yes, for a while. The E10 error is a warning that the absorber is getting close to full. Press Resume to continue printing. But you should plan to get it serviced soon before it reaches full capacity.

What happens if I ignore the E10 warning?

Eventually the absorber will reach full capacity. When that happens, the printer will stop working completely and show a different error. Waste ink could also leak out of the printer and make a mess. It is best to address this warning before it becomes critical.