Canon support code 5200 (print head temperature or ink system error)
Support code 5200 is a printer error raised when the print head temperature sensor reports an abnormal value or the ink system cannot be primed. On FINE cartridge printers it is very often caused by a cartridge that is empty or refilled and running dry, so the head overheats. On tank models it can indicate a print head failure or ink not reaching the head.
What causes it
- An empty or nearly empty cartridge that continued printing after the ink ran out
- A refilled cartridge with dry nozzles
- Ink or debris on the cartridge contacts giving false sensor readings
- Air in the ink tubes on G-series tank printers
- Print head electrical 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 wait
Power off and unplug for five minutes. This lets the print head cool and clears the fault log.
Remove the cartridges and check ink
Open the cover, take out both FINE cartridges and check their weight and the nozzle face. A very light cartridge with a dry nozzle plate is the likely cause.
Clean the contacts
Wipe the gold contacts on the cartridges and inside the holder with a dry lint-free cloth. Reinstall until each clicks and close the cover.
Power on with cartridges installed
Turn the printer on and see whether 5200 returns. If it does, power off again and test with the colour cartridge removed, then the black removed, to find which one triggers the error.
Replace the faulty cartridge
Install a new genuine cartridge in the slot that triggered the error. Refilled cartridges that have run dry often cannot be revived.
Prime the ink system on G-series
On MegaTank printers check that the ink valve lever is open and the tanks are above the minimum line, then run System Cleaning from the Maintenance menu to push ink through to the head.
Reset the printer
If the error persists with good cartridges, perform the reset for your model: with the printer off, hold Stop, press and hold Power, release Stop, press Stop five times, release Power. Then turn the printer off and on normally.
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 5200 the same as B200?
They are related. Both involve the print head temperature or electrical check, but B200 is the fatal version on tank-based PIXMA printers while 5200 is more common on FINE cartridge models and is often fixed by a new cartridge.
Which cartridge causes 5200?
Test by removing one cartridge at a time and powering on. The printer will show a missing cartridge error instead of 5200 when the faulty one is removed.
Does the reset sequence void the warranty?
No. It is a user-level reset documented widely for PIXMA printers and does not enter service mode.
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