We all know the situation: You want to print an important document, but instead of printing, your printer returns an error, leaving you wondering what to do next. One of the more common printer error that invariably crops up at an inopportune time and makes printing impossible is Error Code 5100.

Generally, error code 5100 occurs when there’s some problem with the printer’s cartridge carrier. Fortunately, fixing this error is quite easy—and in this post we’ll walk you through all the steps you need to perform.

Fix #1 – Replace FINE cartridge

Most of the times, the error code 5100 occurs when the cartridge is either faulty or unsuitable for the Canon printer model you’re using. In both situations, a replacement can help resolve the issue. You should always opt for a genuine cartridge. The correct steps for installing FINE cartridge are:

• Ensure the printer is switched off and unplugged and then open its front cover
• Pull out the printer tray, wait for the cartridge to move to the replacement position
• Gently push down the FINE cartridge until you hear a clicking sound and then pull it out
• Remove the new cartridge from its packaging
• Insert the new cartridge into the holder all the way and gently push the lever
• Gently slide the paper tray into its place until it clicks or locks securely

Fix #2 – Resolve the issue of jammed paper

Jammed paper is another common cause of Canon printer error 5100. Here’s how you can fix paper jam:

• Switch off the printer and unplug it
• Pull out the paper try and open the document cover
• Locate the jammed paper and gently remove it
• Make sure you retrieve all torn pieces
• Now reload the paper tray correctly and restart the printer

Check if the error is fixed. If not, try the next solution.

Fix #3 – Reset printer’s ink cartridge

Here’s what you need to do reset your Canon printer’s ink cartridge:

• Switch off the printer and unplug it
• Open the printer’s cartridge door and then pull the cartridge out
• Insert the printer cartridge into the chip resetter’s main passage
• Make sure the chip is lining up with the resetter’s contact plates. Also, ensure the chip and contact plates are in contact
• Plug in your printer and turn it on
• Check if the error is fixed

Fix #4 – Clean your printer’s encoder strip

If the problem persists, try cleaning the encoder strip. Always use a soft fabric to clean the encoder strip and make sure it is clean and dry. After you’ve cleaned the encoder strip, reinstall it and check if the issue is fixed.

We hope one of these solutions have worked for you. Leave a comment below if you have a question or want to tell us which of the above solutions fixed the error in your case.

Before signing off for the day, here’s a pro tip to fix slow printing:

Keep your printer drivers up-to-date. If you’re wondering how, we recommend using an advanced third-party tool such as Driver Updater.

Automatic driver update tools offer many benefits, the most important ones being:

• You can update device drivers automatically
• The software scans and updates all outdated or missing drivers at one go
• The tool picks the right drivers for your device and operating system, so you won’t have to worry about installing an incorrect driver by mistake
• Automatic driver updates are 100% safe

Driver Updater is one of the best driver update tools out there. Outbyte Driver Updater will give you access to a database of over 1 million drivers. It will regularly scan your PC, suggesting new driver versions to install. Driver Updater contains drivers for a variety of Windows devices. With just one click, you can update drivers in your system.

Step 1
Click here to Install and launch the app

Step 2
Scan all devices

Step 3
Install or update drivers automatically

 

Start Download