Canon Printers Canon Printer Paper Jam: How to Fix It Yourself
Canon paper jams are usually caused by misaligned paper in the tray, worn pickup rollers, or a small torn piece stuck inside. Even after clearing the jam, the error can persist if a scrap remains hidden.
⚠️ Safety First
- Turn off the printer before removing jammed paper.
- Pull paper slowly and evenly — yanking can tear it and leave pieces inside.
- Avoid touching the print rollers with your fingers — oils can cause future jams.
Parts You May Need
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Step-by-Step Repair
- 1
Turn off the printer and open all access panels
Power off the printer. Open the front cover, the rear access panel (if your model has one), and lift the scanner bed. You want to see as much of the paper path as possible. Use a flashlight to look for jammed paper.
- 2
Remove the jammed paper slowly
Grip the paper with both hands and pull slowly and evenly in the direction it would normally travel. Don't pull backwards against the rollers — this can tear it. If paper is stuck near the back, use the rear access panel to pull it out from that side.
- 3
Check for torn scraps
Use a flashlight to check every part of the paper path for torn pieces. Even a small piece of paper left behind will cause the jam error to persist. Check under the cartridge area, behind the rollers, and in the output tray path. Use tweezers for tiny scraps.
- 4
Clean the feed rollers
The rubber feed rollers can get dusty or slick over time, causing paper to misfeed. Dampen a lint-free cloth with water and gently wipe the rollers you can reach. Rotate them by hand to clean the full surface. Let them dry before closing up.
- 5
Reload paper and test
Fan your paper stack to separate the sheets. Load the paper neatly, making sure the guides are snug but not too tight against the paper. Close all access panels, power on, and print a test page. If jams keep happening, the paper may be too thick, damp, or the wrong size for the tray settings.
If That Didn't Work
- Using damp, wrinkled, or low-quality paper
- Paper tray guides set too loose or too tight
- Worn or cracked pickup rollers needing replacement
- Foreign objects inside the printer (paper clips, staples)
When to Call a Professional
If jams happen on every print despite clean rollers and good paper, the pickup rollers may need replacing. This is a cheap part but can be tricky to access on some Canon models.
Related Repairs
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute professional repair advice. All repairs are performed at your own risk. RepairItFree.com is not liable for any personal injury, property damage, device damage, voided warranties, or other losses resulting from the use of this information.
If you are unsure about any step — especially anything involving electricity, gas, water, or refrigerant — stop and consult a qualified professional. Your safety is more important than saving money.
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