HP error E5 (scanner failure on DeskJet and ENVY)
E5 on HP's two-character display signals a scanner failure. The scanner bar did not initialise or could not reach its home position when the printer started or when a scan or copy was requested. The printer may still be able to print, but copying and scanning are blocked while E5 is shown.
What causes it
- Scanner lid or carriage lock engaged, or packing material left under the glass
- The scanner bar stalled due to dirt on the rail or a sticky drive belt
- Loose scanner cable after the printer was moved or dropped
- Scanner lamp or sensor failure
- A firmware glitch at start-up
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.
Restart the printer with the lid closed
Turn the printer off, unplug the power cord for 60 seconds, close the scanner lid and power on. The scanner re-homes at start-up and a transient stall clears here.
Check for packaging and obstructions
Lift the scanner lid and check the glass and the edges for tape, foam or the cardboard spacer from shipping. Nothing should be wedged at either end of the scan bar's travel.
Look at the scanner bar
With the lid open, power the printer on and watch the scanner bar through the glass. It should move a short distance and light up. If it does not move at all, the drive belt or motor has failed; if it moves but the lamp does not light, the lamp or cable is at fault.
Test printing
Print a test page from the control panel. If printing works, you can keep using the printer for printing while deciding on the scanner.
Update firmware
Connect through HP Smart and install any available firmware update. Some E5 reports on the DeskJet 2600 and 2700 families were eased by firmware.
Restore factory defaults
Use the button combination listed in your model's user guide (commonly holding Cancel and Wireless while powering on) to reset the printer. Set Wi-Fi up again afterwards and test the scanner.
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 still print with E5 showing?
Often yes. E5 affects the scanner module. If printing also stops, turn the printer off and on so it can start the print engine without waiting for the scanner.
The scanner bar moves but E5 stays. What does that mean?
The bar is moving but not reporting its position or the lamp is not lighting. That is a sensor or lamp fault and needs repair.
Will HP replace a DeskJet under warranty for E5?
Yes, if the printer is within its warranty period and a reset does not resolve it. Contact HP with the serial number and the steps you have tried.
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