Canon printers are widely known for their reliability, quality output, and user-friendly features. However, even the best printers can sometimes stop functioning properly. One common issue many users encounter is when their Canon printer won’t print. This can be incredibly frustrating, especially when you need to print important documents urgently. Fortunately, most of these problems can be resolved with some straightforward troubleshooting. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the top reasons why your Canon printer may not be printing and how to fix them.

 

Common Causes of Canon Printer Not Printing

Before diving into specific solutions, it’s important to understand the potential causes behind the issue:

  1. Connection Problems: Wired or wireless connection failures.

  2. Empty or Low Ink Cartridges: Printer may refuse to print if ink levels are too low.

  3. Print Queue Errors: A stuck print job can prevent new ones from being processed.

  4. Outdated or Corrupt Drivers: Software drivers are essential for printer communication.

  5. Paper Jams or No Paper: Mechanical obstructions or an empty tray.

  6. Incorrect Printer Settings: Wrong default printer or offline status.

  7. Firmware Issues: Bugs or errors in the printer’s internal software.

 

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting for Canon Printers That Won’t Print

Step 1: Check Printer Connection

Whether you are using a USB, Ethernet, or Wi-Fi connection, ensure that the printer is properly connected to your computer or network.

  • USB: Reconnect the cable and try a different port.

  • Wi-Fi: Check if the printer is connected to the correct Wi-Fi network.

  • Ethernet: Ensure the cable is securely connected to both the printer and router.

You can also print a network configuration page to verify the connection status.

 

Step 2: Restart Printer and Devices

Simple restarts can often resolve temporary issues:

  • Turn off your Canon printer and unplug it for 30 seconds.

  • Restart your computer.

  • Power the printer back on and try printing again.

 

Step 3: Check Ink Levels and Cartridges

Low or empty cartridges can cause a Canon printer to stop printing.

  • Open the printer cover to check ink levels.

  • Replace any empty cartridges.

  • Make sure the cartridges are installed properly and securely.

Also, run a nozzle check to confirm if ink is flowing correctly.

 

Step 4: Clear Print Queue

A stuck print job can block the print queue.

  • On Windows: Go to Control Panel > Devices and Printers.

  • Right-click your Canon printer and choose See what’s printing.

  • Cancel all print jobs.

  • Restart the printer and try again.

 

Step 5: Set the Correct Default Printer

Sometimes, the wrong printer might be selected.

  • On Windows: Go to Settings > Devices > Printers & scanners.

  • Select your Canon printer and click Set as default.

On Mac, go to System Preferences > Printers & Scanners and set the default printer.

 

Step 6: Update or Reinstall Canon Printer Drivers

Drivers allow your computer to communicate with the printer.

  • Visit the Canon support website and download the latest driver for your model.

  • Install the updated driver.

  • Alternatively, uninstall the printer completely and reinstall it from scratch.

 

Step 7: Check for Canon Paper Jams or Tray Issues

Mechanical problems can halt the printing process.

  • Open the printer and check for any jammed paper.

  • Remove stuck paper carefully without tearing.

  • Ensure the paper tray is loaded with the correct size and type of paper.

 

Step 8: Run Printer Troubleshooter (Windows)

Windows offers built-in troubleshooting tools.

  • Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters.

  • Select Printer and run the troubleshooter.

This can automatically detect and resolve some common printing issues.

 

Step 9: Check Printer Status (Offline or Paused)

  • On Windows: Right-click the printer icon in Devices and Printers.

  • Make sure Use Printer Offline is unchecked.

  • Also, ensure the printer is not paused.

 

Step 10: Perform a Factory Reset

If none of the above steps work, a factory reset may resolve the problem.

  • Navigate to Settings > Device Settings > Reset Settings > Reset All.

  • Note: This will erase all settings and restore the printer to its original state.

 

Additional Tips

  • Firmware Updates: Check if there are any firmware updates available for your Canon printer.

  • Test Print: Try printing a test page directly from the printer’s menu to check hardware functionality.

  • Use Canon PRINT App: If using a mobile device, try the Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY app for troubleshooting and printing.

 

When to Contact Canon Support

If your printer still won’t print after trying all of the above solutions, it may be time to contact Canon customer support.

  • Visit Canon's support site

  • Use the live chat or phone number provided.

  • Have your printer model and serial number ready for faster service.

 

Conclusion

A Canon printer not printing can be caused by various issues, from simple connectivity errors to more complex driver conflicts. Thankfully, most problems can be diagnosed and resolved by following a logical step-by-step approach. This guide provides comprehensive solutions to get your Canon printer back in working condition. By checking connections, ink levels, driver updates, and printer settings, you can resolve the issue quickly and avoid unnecessary downtime.

Keep this guide handy for future reference, and you’ll be better prepared to troubleshoot printing problems whenever they arise.