Fix Epson Printer Error 0x97: Complete Troubleshooting Guide

ByMyErrorFix

Quick Fix

Epson printer error 0x97 means an internal hardware problem. To fix it: Turn off the printer, unplug all cables, wait 5 minutes, then plug back in and turn on. If that doesn’t work, open the printer, remove any paper jams, and gently clean the print head area. This clears error 0x97 for most users.

What Is Epson Error 0x97?

Error code 0x97 appears on Epson WorkForce printers (WF-3640, WF-4630, WF-7610, WF-7620, and similar models) indicating an internal hardware error. The printer displays “A printer error has occurred. Turn the power off and on again. If the problem persists, contact Epson Support. Error Code: 0x97.”

Common causes include motherboard communication issues, print head problems, paper jams, ink system errors, or internal component failures. Let’s go through all solutions.

Method 1: Power Cycle the Printer

A complete power cycle can reset internal components.

  1. Press the Power button to turn off the printer
  2. Unplug the power cord from the printer
  3. Unplug the power cord from the wall outlet
  4. Disconnect all USB cables
  5. Wait 5 full minutes
  6. Plug the power cord back into the wall
  7. Plug the power cord into the printer
  8. Turn on the printer

The extended wait time allows capacitors to fully discharge and reset the internal electronics.

Method 2: Remove and Reseat Ink Cartridges

Improperly seated cartridges can cause error 0x97.

  1. Turn on the printer
  2. Open the ink cartridge cover
  3. Wait for the cartridge holder to move to the access position
  4. Remove all ink cartridges one by one
  5. Inspect cartridges for damage or leaks
  6. Check for any debris in the cartridge slots
  7. Reinstall each cartridge firmly until it clicks
  8. Close the cover
  9. Let the printer initialize

Method 3: Clean the Print Head

Dried ink or debris on the print head causes internal errors.

  1. Turn off the printer and unplug it
  2. Open the printer cover to access the print head
  3. Dampen a lint-free cloth with distilled water
  4. Gently wipe the print head contacts
  5. Clean the copper/gold contacts on the cartridge carrier
  6. Let everything dry for 10 minutes
  7. Plug in and turn on the printer

Tip: Use distilled water only, not tap water or alcohol, which can damage components.

Method 4: Clear Paper Jams

Hidden paper jams can trigger error 0x97.

  1. Turn off the printer
  2. Open all accessible covers and doors
  3. Check the paper feed area
  4. Check behind the rear access panel
  5. Look inside the ADF (automatic document feeder)
  6. Remove any torn paper pieces
  7. Check rollers for paper debris
  8. Close all covers securely
  9. Turn on the printer

Method 5: Run Printer Head Cleaning

Built-in cleaning can clear print head blockages.

From the printer panel:

  1. Press Home
  2. Go to Setup or Settings
  3. Select Maintenance
  4. Select Head Cleaning
  5. Follow on-screen prompts
  6. Run the cleaning cycle 2-3 times if needed

From computer (Windows):

  1. Open Control Panel > Devices and Printers
  2. Right-click your Epson printer
  3. Select Printing Preferences
  4. Go to Maintenance tab
  5. Click Head Cleaning

Method 6: Check Internal Cables

Loose internal connections cause communication errors.

  1. Turn off and unplug the printer
  2. Open the printer cover
  3. Locate the ribbon cable connecting the print head to the motherboard
  4. Carefully disconnect and reconnect the cable
  5. Check for any visible damage to cables
  6. Close the printer
  7. Plug in and test

Warning: Only do this if you’re comfortable with hardware. Improper handling can cause more damage.

Method 7: Press Printer Components

Some users fix 0x97 by firmly pressing internal components.

  1. Turn off and unplug the printer
  2. Open the printer cover
  3. Firmly (but carefully) press down on the print head assembly
  4. Press on any visible circuit boards
  5. This can reseat loose connections
  6. Close and restart the printer

Method 8: Update Printer Firmware

Firmware updates can fix known bugs causing error 0x97.

  1. Visit epson.com/support
  2. Enter your printer model
  3. Download the latest firmware
  4. Run the firmware updater
  5. Follow on-screen instructions
  6. Don’t turn off the printer during update

Update from printer (if connected to network):

  1. Press Home
  2. Go to Setup > Firmware Update
  3. Select Update
  4. Wait for download and installation

Method 9: Reset the Printer

A factory reset clears all settings and may fix the error.

  1. Press Home
  2. Go to Setup or Settings
  3. Select Restore Default Settings
  4. Select All Settings
  5. Confirm the reset
  6. Set up the printer again

Note: This erases WiFi settings, custom preferences, and saved data.

Method 10: Check Motherboard

Error 0x97 can indicate motherboard failure.

Signs of motherboard issues:

  • Error persists after all other fixes
  • Printer worked fine then suddenly showed 0x97
  • Power surge or electrical issues recently
  • Visible damage or burn marks on circuit board

Options:

  • Contact Epson Support for repair options
  • Seek a printer repair service
  • Consider replacing the printer (often more cost-effective than motherboard repair)

Method 11: Extended Power Cycle Method

Some users report success with a more thorough reset.

  1. Turn off the printer
  2. Unplug from power completely
  3. Remove all ink cartridges
  4. Disconnect all cables (USB, Ethernet)
  5. Press and hold the Power button for 60 seconds (while unplugged)
  6. Wait 15 minutes
  7. Reinstall ink cartridges
  8. Plug in power only
  9. Turn on and test before reconnecting other cables

Affected Epson Models

Error 0x97 commonly appears on:

  • Epson WorkForce WF-3640
  • Epson WorkForce WF-4630
  • Epson WorkForce WF-7610
  • Epson WorkForce WF-7620
  • Epson WorkForce Pro WF-4740
  • Epson WorkForce Pro WF-R4640
  • Other WorkForce series printers

Preventing Error 0x97

  • Use genuine Epson ink cartridges
  • Print at least once a week to prevent head clogs
  • Keep firmware updated
  • Use a surge protector
  • Turn off properly using power button, not unplugging
  • Keep printer in a clean, dust-free area

FAQ

What does Epson error 0x97 mean?

Error 0x97 indicates an internal hardware error in Epson printers. It typically relates to motherboard communication issues, print head problems, or internal component failures. It’s common on WorkForce series printers.

Can I fix error 0x97 myself?

Yes, most cases can be fixed with the methods above – power cycling, cleaning the print head, reseating cartridges, and clearing jams. If the error persists after all software fixes, it may indicate hardware failure requiring professional repair.

Why does 0x97 keep coming back?

Recurring 0x97 errors suggest an underlying hardware issue, often with the motherboard or print head assembly. Temporary fixes may work briefly, but the problem returns. This usually means repair or replacement is needed.

Is it worth repairing a printer with error 0x97?

Motherboard repairs often cost $100-200+, sometimes approaching the cost of a new printer. For printers under 2-3 years old or high-end models, repair may be worthwhile. For older or budget printers, replacement is usually more economical.

Does error 0x97 affect all functions?

Yes, error 0x97 typically prevents all printing, scanning, and copying functions. The printer won’t operate until the error is resolved.

Can third-party ink cause error 0x97?

While third-party ink can cause various issues, error 0x97 is primarily a hardware/motherboard error. However, leaky or poor-quality cartridges could potentially damage internal components over time, contributing to such errors.

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