HP error E4 (paper jam on DeskJet and ENVY)
E4 on an HP DeskJet or ENVY display means the printer has detected a paper jam. The sensor in the paper path saw paper arrive but not leave, or saw paper at power-on when there should be none. The printer stops and will not resume until the path is clear and the error is acknowledged.
What causes it
- A sheet that fed crooked or two sheets picked up together
- Paper fragment left in the rear path after an earlier jam
- Paper that is curled, damp or too thin for the feed rollers
- Tray overfilled or guides not touching the paper edges
- Dirty or worn pickup roller causing a mis-feed
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.
Cancel and turn the printer off
Press Cancel to stop the job, then turn the printer off. Do not pull paper while the rollers are under power.
Remove paper from the input tray
Take the stack out and check the tray cavity for any jammed sheet. Pull jammed paper out slowly in the direction it normally feeds.
Check the output area
Look at the output slot and remove any paper that is partly out. Pull gently with both hands to avoid tearing.
Open the rear access door
Press the tabs on the rear door or cleanout panel and remove it. Pull out any paper. Use a flashlight to check for small scraps. Refit the door until it clicks.
Check under the cartridge carriage
Open the cartridge door, let the carriage move or slide it by hand with the printer off, and remove any paper from the carriage path.
Clean the rollers
With the rear door off, wipe the grey rubber rollers with a lint-free cloth lightly dampened with water, rotating them to clean all round. Let them dry.
Reload paper correctly and restart
Fan a fresh stack, load it with the guides snug but not tight, and turn the printer on. Press Resume or OK if the printer asks. Print a test page.
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
The printer says E4 but there is no paper inside. What now?
Look again with a flashlight in the rear path and under the carriage; a small scrap is enough. If nothing is there, unplug the printer for a minute and try again.
Why does my DeskJet jam every few pages?
Usually a dirty pickup roller or paper that is curling. Clean the roller, use a fresh ream and make sure the guides are against the paper.
Can I print on thicker card with a DeskJet 2700?
Only up to the weight listed in the specifications, typically around 200 gsm for single sheets. Heavier stock causes E4 jams.
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