HP Printer Error Code E4 — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

The E4 error means there is a paper jam specifically in the paper tray area. Unlike the E1 error which can happen anywhere inside the printer, E4 points to the tray. You need to remove the tray and clear the stuck paper.

Affected Models

HP DeskJet 2700 Series
HP DeskJet 4100 Series
HP ENVY 6000 Series
HP OfficeJet Pro 9000 Series
HP LaserJet Pro M400 Series

Common Causes

Paper is crumpled or folded at the entrance of the tray
Multiple sheets fed at once because they were stuck together
The paper tray is overfilled beyond the maximum line
The paper guides in the tray are not adjusted to the correct paper size
Worn or dirty tray rollers cannot grip the paper evenly

How to Fix It

Turn the printer off and unplug it. Pull the paper tray completely out of the printer.

On most HP models, the tray slides straight out. Check your manual if it feels stuck.
Remove all paper from the tray. Look for any jammed, torn, or crumpled sheets inside the tray slot.

Use a flashlight to check deep inside the slot where the tray was sitting.
Gently pull out any stuck paper. Pull it in the direction the paper normally feeds — usually toward the front.

If the paper tears, make sure you get all the pieces. Even tiny scraps can cause future jams.
Fan a fresh stack of paper and load it neatly into the tray. Do not fill past the maximum line.

Fanning the paper separates sheets that may be stuck together from humidity or static.
Slide the tray back in until it clicks. Plug in the printer and turn it on. Print a test page.

Make sure the paper guides are snug against the paper stack but not squeezing it.

When to Call a Professional

Tray paper jams are almost always fixable at home. If the tray rollers are visibly worn or damaged, they may need professional replacement. Roller replacement typically costs $40 to $90 including labor.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between E1 and E4 on an HP printer?

E1 means a paper jam somewhere inside the printer body. E4 means the jam is specifically in the paper tray area. The fix for E4 focuses on the tray itself rather than the internal paper path.

How much paper should I put in the tray?

Never fill past the maximum line marked inside the tray. For most HP printers, this is about 60 to 100 sheets of standard paper. Overfilling is one of the most common causes of tray jams.

My HP printer jams every time I use the tray. Is the tray broken?

Probably not broken, but the tray rollers may be dirty. Wipe the small rubber rollers inside the tray with a damp lint-free cloth. If the rollers look smooth or shiny instead of slightly rough, they are worn and may need replacement.