Canon Printer Error 1403 — Printhead Not Recognized

Canon printer error 1403 means the printer does not recognize the installed printhead, requiring cleaning or replacement of the printhead unit. This guide covers everything you need to know about this topic, including common causes, step-by-step solutions, and answers to frequently asked questions.

Here are the key things to understand: The printhead is a separate component from ink cartridges on Canon PIXMA printers. Error 1403 indicates communication failure between printhead and printer. Can appear after replacing ink cartridges if the printhead was disturbed. Dirty contacts are the most common cause, not a failed printhead. Canon printhead part numbers start with QY6- followed by model-specific digits. Understanding these fundamentals will help you diagnose and resolve this issue more effectively.

The most common reasons this occurs include: Dirty or corroded electrical contacts on the printhead. Printhead not properly seated after ink cartridge replacement. Dried ink blocking the nozzle plate. Printhead reaching end of life after high print volume. Incompatible printhead installed (wrong model). Identifying the root cause is the first step toward finding the right solution.

To resolve this, follow these recommended steps: Remove the printhead: open cover, remove all cartridges, lift the printhead lock lever, slide out the printhead. Clean the gold electrical contacts on the printhead with isopropyl alcohol and a lint-free cloth. Clean the matching contacts inside the printer carriage. Soak the printhead nozzle plate in warm distilled water for 15 minutes. Reinstall the printhead firmly, lock the lever, reinstall cartridges, and close the cover. If these steps do not resolve the issue, consider consulting additional resources or a qualified professional.

This article is part of our Printer Error Codes collection on Error Codes Wiki. We provide comprehensive, up-to-date information to help you find solutions quickly.