Low severity Hardware Code: Paper Jam

Paper jam — how to clear it safely

A sheet has stopped in the paper path, or the printer reports a jam even when you can't see one. Clearing it the right way avoids torn paper and roller damage.

Symptoms

  • "Paper jam" message
  • Crumpled or half-fed sheet
  • Printer stops mid-job

Likely causes

  • Misfed, curled or overloaded paper
  • Torn scrap left in the path
  • Worn pickup rollers
  • Foreign object (staple, label backing)

How to fix it — step by step

Work through these in order; most people are fixed by the first two or three.

Power off and remove paper gently

Turn the printer off. Pull jammed paper slowly in the direction of the paper path (usually the way it feeds), using both hands to avoid tearing.

Check every door and tray

Open the rear door, duplexer and toner/cartridge area and look for small torn pieces. Even a tiny scrap triggers a jam message.

Re-load paper correctly

Fan the stack, don't overfill the tray, and set the guides snug against the edges. Use the correct paper size/weight.

Clean the pickup rollers

Wipe the feed rollers with a lint-free cloth lightly dampened with water. Dusty rollers slip and cause repeat jams.

Still not fixed? For hardware faults still under warranty, contact the manufacturer's official support. This is an independent guide — always confirm steps for your exact model in its manual.

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