Epson Printer Error Code W-12 — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

Epson error W-12 means one or more ink cartridges are empty or nearly empty. The printer may stop printing or produce faded output until the empty cartridge is replaced. Check the printer display or Epson software to see which color needs replacing.

Affected Models

Epson EcoTank ET-2800
Epson WorkForce WF-2960
Epson Expression Home XP-4200
Epson Expression Photo XP-8700
Epson WorkForce WF-7840

Common Causes

One or more ink cartridges have run out of ink through normal printing
The ink level sensor detects a cartridge is below the minimum threshold
A cartridge was recently installed but was already partially empty or refilled
The printer has been running many cleaning cycles, which use up ink faster than printing
The ink chip on the cartridge is reporting incorrect or outdated ink levels

How to Fix It

Check which cartridge is empty. The printer screen or Epson Status Monitor on your computer will show ink levels for each color.

On most Epson printers, press the Home button and navigate to Ink Levels or check Setup > Ink Levels.
Purchase the correct replacement cartridge for your model. The cartridge number is printed on the empty cartridge or listed in your printer manual.

Using the wrong cartridge number will not work. Each Epson model uses a specific cartridge series.
Open the cartridge cover on the printer. Wait for the cartridge holder to move to the replacement position.

Do not force the cartridge holder to move manually. Let the printer position it automatically.
Remove the empty cartridge by pressing the tab and pulling it out. Unpack the new cartridge and remove any protective tape or seals.

Do not touch the green chip or the ink outlet on the new cartridge. Oils from your fingers can cause recognition errors.
Insert the new cartridge into the correct slot and press it down until it clicks. Close the cartridge cover.

The printer will automatically charge the new cartridge. This takes a minute or two and uses a small amount of ink.

When to Call a Professional

The W-12 error is fixable at home by replacing the empty cartridge. You do not need a technician for this. If the error persists after installing a new genuine cartridge, the cartridge sensor may be faulty. A technician can inspect this for $40 to $60.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I keep printing with an empty cartridge?

It depends on which cartridge is empty. If a color cartridge is empty, some models let you print in black only temporarily. If the black cartridge is empty, you generally cannot print at all. Printing with an empty cartridge can damage the printhead.

Are third-party cartridges okay to use?

Third-party cartridges are cheaper but quality varies. Some work perfectly fine. Others may cause recognition errors or print quality issues. Using non-genuine cartridges does not void your printer warranty in most countries. But Epson will not cover damage caused by third-party ink.

Why does my new cartridge still show low ink?

Make sure you removed all protective tape and seals from the new cartridge. Try removing the cartridge and reinstalling it with a firm click. If the problem continues, the cartridge may be defective. Try a different cartridge from the same package or a different package.