Canon support code 2500 (automatic print head alignment failed)
Support code 2500 means the automatic print head alignment could not be completed. The printer prints an alignment sheet and scans it with the sensor in the carriage; if it cannot read the pattern, because of the wrong paper, blocked nozzles, or a dirty sensor, it reports 2500. Printing still works but alignment may be off, causing misaligned lines or banding.
What causes it
- Alignment printed on coloured, glossy or non-standard paper instead of plain white A4 or Letter
- Clogged nozzles producing a faint or incomplete pattern
- Dirty sensor on the carriage or a dirty platen
- Paper loaded in the wrong tray for alignment
- Light shining into the printer from a window affecting the sensor
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.
Press OK to clear the message
Dismiss the error. The printer will use its previous alignment settings and still print.
Load plain white paper in the rear tray
Automatic alignment needs at least one sheet of plain white A4 or Letter paper in the tray the printer specifies, usually the rear tray on two-tray models. Remove photo paper.
Print a nozzle check first
Go to Setup, Maintenance, Nozzle Check. If any colour shows gaps, run Cleaning and repeat until the pattern is complete. A faint pattern is the most common reason alignment fails.
Run automatic alignment again
From Setup, Maintenance, choose Auto head alignment and let the printer print and scan the sheet without opening the cover. Keep the lid closed and avoid bright light on the printer.
Use manual alignment
If auto alignment fails repeatedly, choose Manual head alignment. The printer prints numbered patterns and you pick the best of each on the screen. This bypasses the sensor entirely.
Clean the platen and sensor
With the printer unplugged, wipe ink from the platen under the carriage path and the small sensor window on the carriage with a dry cotton swab.
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.
Printers that show this code
Frequently asked questions
Can I ignore error 2500?
Yes. It does not stop printing. Clear it and try alignment again on plain paper after a nozzle check.
Why does alignment fail on my new PIXMA?
New printers often have the nozzles only partly primed. Run a cleaning cycle and a nozzle check, then repeat the alignment.
Does manual alignment work as well as automatic?
Yes, if you choose the patterns carefully under good light. It takes a few minutes longer but does not depend on the sensor.
Questions & comments (0)
No comments yet. Describe your printer model, operating system and the exact message you see; comments appear after review.
Ask about this page
Your comment appears after our team approves it. Or sign in to post faster.