Canon Printer Error Code E21 — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

Error E21 means the print head carriage is stuck or unable to move correctly. The carriage holds the ink cartridges and travels back and forth when printing. The printer cannot print until the carriage can move freely.

Affected Models

Canon PIXMA MG2500 Series
Canon PIXMA MG3500 Series
Canon PIXMA MX470 Series
Canon PIXMA IP2840
Canon PIXMA TR4500 Series

Common Causes

A piece of paper or foreign object is blocking the carriage track
A zip tie or packaging material from installation was not removed
The carriage belt has slipped off its track
The carriage motor has failed
The ink cartridge is not seated properly and is catching on the housing

How to Fix It

Turn off the printer and unplug it from power. Open the front cover or cartridge access panel.

Never try to move the carriage manually while the printer is powered on.
Let the carriage sit for a minute. It should come to rest in the center or right side of the track.

Do not force the carriage — let it settle naturally before touching it.
Look along the entire carriage track for any obstructions — paper scraps, debris, packaging materials.

Pay special attention to the ends of the track where items can get wedged.
Gently try to slide the carriage left and right by hand. It should move smoothly with light resistance.

If it feels rough or grinds, the rail may need to be lightly lubricated with petroleum jelly.
Check that all ink cartridges are firmly seated. Close the cover and power the printer back on.

If the carriage moves freely on startup, the error should clear.

When to Call a Professional

If the carriage is visibly stuck and you cannot find an obstruction, the belt or motor may have failed. Carriage belt replacement is a moderate repair — around $50 to $120 at a service center. For basic PIXMA models, the cost of repair may exceed the printer's value.

Frequently Asked Questions

My Canon is brand new and shows E21 on first use. What do I do?

Check for orange protective tape or a zip tie holding the carriage in place. These are installed for safe shipping and MUST be removed before first use. The instruction sheet that came in the box explains where these are located.

I heard a grinding sound before E21 appeared. Is that bad?

Grinding usually means the carriage belt has slipped or the motor is straining against a blockage. Stop using the printer immediately to prevent further damage. Inspect the carriage path carefully for any obstruction before powering on again.

Is there a way to reset the carriage position on a Canon printer?

Yes, powering the printer off and back on triggers a home position reset. The printer will try to move the carriage to its home position on startup. If it fails to do so, the carriage or motor needs inspection.