HP error 13.xx paper jam codes (13.A1, 13.B9, 13.B2, 13.E1)
HP LaserJets report paper jams as 13.xx.xx codes where the second group identifies where the paper was detected. 13.A1 and 13.A2 refer to tray 1 or tray 2 pickup jams, 13.B2 and 13.B9 point to the registration and fuser area, 13.D refers to the duplexer and 13.E1 to the output bin. The printer stops until the paper is removed and all doors are closed.
What causes it
- Paper left in the path after a previous jam
- Worn pickup, feed or separation rollers that feed two sheets or slip
- Paper that is damp, curled or outside the tray's weight specification
- Tray guides not set to the paper size, so sheets skew
- A faulty paper sensor flag or a damaged fuser
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.
Read the jam location from the code
13.A1 means tray 1, 13.A2 tray 2, 13.B2 and 13.B9 the fuser area, 13.D the duplex path and 13.E1 the output bin. Go straight to that area instead of opening every door.
Remove the paper slowly in the feed direction
Pull paper out in the direction it normally travels, with both hands, to avoid tearing. Check for small fragments around the rollers and fuser entrance with a flashlight.
Open and close every door
Even after the paper is out, the printer re-checks the door sensors. Open and close the cartridge door, rear door and tray to reset the jam state.
Reload the paper properly
Fan the stack, load it with the guides just touching the edges, and keep the stack below the fill mark. Use fresh, dry paper from a sealed ream if the current stock has been sitting out.
Check the rollers
If jams recur at the same location, look at the pickup and separation rollers for that tray. Shiny, smooth or cracked rubber means they need replacing. HP sells roller kits for most LaserJet models and they take five minutes to fit.
Inspect the fuser for 13.B9 jams
For repeated 13.B9 errors, remove the fuser (rear of the printer on most models) and look for paper wrapped around the rollers or a broken exit flag. A damaged fuser sleeve will grab paper every time.
Update firmware for phantom jams
If the printer reports a jam with no paper present, update the firmware and check the sensor flags for dust. Some LaserJet Pro firmware versions produced false 13.A jams that HP corrected.
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
What does 13.B9.xx mean?
A jam detected in the fuser or exit area. The printer saw paper reach the fuser but not leave it in time. Check the rear door and fuser area for paper.
Why does my printer say 13.A1 when the tray is empty of jams?
The tray 1 sensor may be stuck or dirty, or a fragment of paper is sitting against it. Clean the flag with compressed air and reseat the tray.
Can I print while a 13 error is showing?
No. The printer halts all jobs until the jam is cleared and the doors are closed.
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