Canon Printer Error Code E32 — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

Error E32 means your Canon printer detected a paper size that it does not support or did not expect. The printer picked up a sheet that is too large, too small, or doesn't match the selected print settings. This is a settings or loading problem — not a hardware failure.

Affected Models

Canon PIXMA MG Series
Canon PIXMA MX Series
Canon imageCLASS MF Series
Canon MAXIFY MB Series
Canon PIXMA TR Series

Common Causes

The paper size selected in the printer driver does not match the actual paper loaded in the tray
A mix of different paper sizes was loaded in the tray and an unsupported size fed through
The paper size guides in the tray are not adjusted to fit the paper, causing a misread
A print job was sent with a non-standard or custom page size that the printer does not support
The paper size detection sensor in the tray is dirty or stuck

How to Fix It

Cancel the current print job from your computer or press the printer's Stop/Reset button.

Clearing the job queue ensures the printer will not immediately try the same incorrect settings again.
Open the paper tray and remove all paper. Check that every sheet is the same size and that it matches what you intend to print.

Reload a clean, even stack of paper and adjust the side and rear guides to fit snugly against all edges.
On your computer, open the printer driver (File > Print > Printer Properties) and set the paper size to match what is loaded.

For Canon PIXMA printers, the paper size setting is under the Main or Page Setup tab in the print dialog.
If printing from a smartphone or tablet, check the paper size in the Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY app settings.

Mobile apps sometimes default to A4 size even if your printer is configured for Letter paper.
Press OK on the printer panel to clear the error and send the print job again.

If E32 returns immediately, remove and reload the paper — make sure the tray guides are firmly touching the paper edges.

When to Call a Professional

Error E32 is almost always a settings or loading issue you can fix yourself. If the error persists after correcting the paper size and tray guides, the size detection sensor may need cleaning or repair. Contact Canon support or a service center if the sensor is suspected.

Frequently Asked Questions

What paper sizes does a Canon PIXMA printer support?

Most Canon PIXMA printers support Letter, Legal, A4, A5, B5, and 4x6-inch photo paper. Envelopes in DL and #10 sizes are also usually supported. Check your specific model's specifications on Canon's website for the full list of supported sizes.

Can I print a custom page size on my Canon printer?

Yes. In the Canon printer driver, go to Page Setup and select Custom Paper Size. Enter the exact width and height in millimeters or inches. Note that very small or very large custom sizes may not be supported on all models.

Why does my Canon show E32 only when printing from one specific app?

The app likely has a different default paper size setting than your printer expects. For example, many European apps default to A4, while US printers are often set to Letter. Open that app's print settings and change the paper size to match your printer's loaded paper.