Epson error 0x97: internal hardware error
Epson error code 0x97 signals an internal hardware fault, often linked to the print head or main board. Try a full power reset, then check repair options.
What this error means
Epson printers show code 0x97 with a message that a printer error has occurred and asking you to turn the power off and on. It indicates an internal hardware fault: the printer has detected a problem with an electrical part, often linked to the print head or the main circuit board that drives it. Occasionally it is a temporary fault that clears after a full power reset, but if it returns every time you switch on, a part has usually failed and the printer needs repair.
Common causes
- A temporary electrical fault that clears after a full restart
- A failed or damaged print head
- A fault on the main circuit board or in the cable to the print head
- Ink that has leaked onto electrical parts
- An unstable power supply or a recent power surge
How to fix it
Start with the first fix. They’re ordered from safest and quickest to most involved.
Fixes for Any printer
0 of 6 steps tried
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Do a full power reset
Turn the printer off with its power button, unplug the power cord from the wall and disconnect any USB cable. Wait at least five minutes; while it's unplugged, you can also press and hold the power button for about 30 seconds to drain any leftover charge. Then plug the cord straight into a wall outlet, not a power strip or surge protector, and turn the printer on.
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Check for objects and packing material
With the printer off and unplugged, open the scanner unit or top cover as your manual describes. Look along the path the print head travels for paper scraps, tape, or anything that has fallen inside, and remove what you can reach without force. On a new printer, check the setup guide for packing material you might have missed.
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Reseat the ink cartridges
On cartridge models, turn the printer on and follow your manual to move the print head to the cartridge replacement position, keeping your hands clear while it moves. Press each cartridge down until it clicks, or remove and reinstall it, then close the covers. On ink tank models you don't need to touch the tanks; just check that any transport lock described in the setup guide is released.
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Look for signs of leaked ink
If you see pools of ink inside the printer or underneath it, stop restarting it. Leaked ink can reach electrical parts and is one route to a hardware error like 0x97. Leave the printer unplugged and arrange a repair rather than trying to dry or clean internal parts yourself.
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Update the firmware if the printer recovers
If the printer starts normally after a reset, check for a firmware update through the printer's menu or your model's page on Epson's official support site. An update won't repair failed hardware, but keeping firmware current rules out known software faults.
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Contact Epson through its official support site
If 0x97 returns after a full power reset, the printer needs repair. Look up your model on Epson's official support website for your country to check warranty status and repair options. For an older model, compare the repair cost with a replacement before deciding.
Did this fix it?
Good. To confirm everything is healthy, print a test page. It takes a minute and shows any quality problems early.
Still stuck? The troubleshooter asks a few questions and narrows it down. If your printer is under warranty, the manufacturer can repair or replace it at no cost. Find their official support site on our brand pages.
Common questions
Can error 0x97 fix itself?
Sometimes, if it was caused by a brief electrical glitch. If the code keeps returning after a full power reset, a part has failed and the printer needs repair.
Are there downloads that fix 0x97?
Downloads that claim to fix 0x97 or reset the printer are unofficial. They can't repair a hardware fault, and they can carry malware. Use only software and firmware from Epson's official site.
Is it safe to keep turning the printer on and off?
A few restarts won't harm it, but repeated attempts won't fix a failed part either. If you see leaked ink or smell burning, leave it unplugged and arrange a repair.