Canon error P02 (carriage error)
P02 is the carriage error on older PIXMA MP and MX models with a segment display. The cartridge carriage could not move through its full travel because something stopped it, or the encoder could not track its position. It matches support code 5100 on newer printers with screens.
What causes it
- Paper fragment or small object in the carriage path
- A FINE cartridge not seated and catching the frame
- Dried ink on the carriage rail or the purge unit caps
- Dirty encoder strip
- Carriage belt or motor failure
How to fix it, in order
Work down the list and stop when the printer recovers. The steps are ordered from most likely and least invasive to last resort.
Turn the printer off and unplug
This lets you move the carriage freely and clears the fault state.
Open the cover and remove obstructions
Check the carriage path end to end, including underneath, for paper, staples or packaging.
Slide the carriage by hand
Move it slowly from right to left. If it is stuck at the right, the purge caps may be glued to the cartridges with dried ink; dampen the caps with a swab and gently free it.
Reseat the cartridges
Lower the lock lever, remove both cartridges, refit them until they click and raise the lever.
Clean the encoder strip
Wipe the clear strip behind the carriage with a dry lint-free cloth.
Reconnect and power on
Plug in and switch on. The carriage runs a travel check. If P02 clears, print a nozzle check.
Stopping it happening again
When it is not worth fixing yourself
If you would rather not work through this alone, a printer specialist can take a look with you on a screen-share and tell you honestly whether the machine is worth saving.
Frequently asked questions
Is P02 the same as error 5100?
Yes. P02 is the segment-display version of the carriage error that shows as support code 5100 on newer models.
Why does P02 happen after I changed a cartridge?
The new cartridge is not clicked in and catches the frame as the carriage moves. Reseat it and raise the lock lever.
Can I reset P02 with a button sequence?
Restarting clears the flag, but the physical cause must be removed or it returns immediately.
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