Brother Printer Error Code 38: How to Fix It

Medium 45–90 minutes (including mandatory 30-minute cool-down period) High Severity Verified June 2026
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Error Code
38
Brand
Brother
Product Type
printer
Severity
High
DIY Difficulty
Medium
Estimated Fix Time
45–90 minutes (including mandatory 30-minute cool-down period)
Brother printer error code 38 means the fuser unit inside your printer has overheated and reached an unsafe temperature. The fuser is the component that melts toner onto the paper using heat, and when it gets too hot, the printer shuts itself down to prevent damage or fire. This error requires immediate attention — do not continue printing until the issue is fully resolved.
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Tools You'll Need

How to Fix Error Code 38

  1. Power Off and Unplug the Printer Immediately

    The fuser unit can reach temperatures exceeding 200°C (392°F) during operation. Do not open the printer or touch any internal components until you have waited at least 30 minutes for it to cool completely.

  2. Wait for the Printer to Cool Down Completely

    Do not attempt to accelerate cooling by using fans blowing directly into vents or by opening internal access panels while the unit is still warm.

  3. Check the Printer's Environment and Ventilation

  4. Inspect the Fuser Unit for Visible Damage

    Ensure the printer has been unplugged for at least 30 minutes before opening any access panels. Even after powering off, residual heat may remain inside the unit.

  5. Remove and Reseat the Fuser Unit

    Never use water, alcohol, or chemical cleaners inside the fuser area. Do not touch the fuser roller surface directly, as skin oils can damage it.

  6. Check for and Clear Any Paper Jams

  7. Plug In and Power On the Printer

    Do not leave the printer unattended during the first test print after this error. If you smell burning or see any smoke, power off and unplug immediately.

  8. Replace the Fuser Unit If the Error Persists

    Using a fuser unit that is not rated for your specific printer model can cause additional errors, fire risk, or void your warranty. Always confirm compatibility before purchasing.

Parts You May Need

Fuser unit
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Fuser thermistor
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Fuser unit
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Fuser thermistor
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Fuser unit
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Fuser thermistor
Check Price on Amazon
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When to Call a Professional

You should contact a Brother-authorized service technician or take the printer to a professional repair center if: (1) error code 38 returns immediately after replacing the fuser unit, (2) you notice burn marks, melted plastic, or a persistent burning smell inside the printer, (3) the printer trips a circuit breaker or shows signs of electrical fault, (4) you are not comfortable removing and replacing internal printer components, or (5) the printer is under warranty and you do not want to risk voiding it through DIY repairs. Fuser replacement on some higher-end Brother laser printer models can also involve dismantling multiple internal assemblies, which is best left to a trained technician.

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes Brother printer error code 38?
Error code 38 on a Brother printer indicates the fuser unit has overheated. Common causes include blocked ventilation slots, operating the printer in a hot or poorly ventilated room, a paper jam near the fuser, a failing or worn-out fuser unit, or running excessively long print jobs without pausing. In some cases, a faulty thermistor (temperature sensor) inside the fuser unit can give a false overheat reading even when the actual temperature is normal.
Can I keep using my Brother printer with error code 38?
No. You should stop using the printer immediately when error code 38 appears. The fuser unit is operating at unsafe temperatures, and continuing to print can permanently damage the printer, cause a fire hazard, or result in poor print quality. Power off and unplug the printer right away and allow it to cool before troubleshooting.
How long does a Brother fuser unit last?
Most Brother fuser units are rated for a specific number of pages — typically between 25,000 and 100,000 pages depending on the model. High-volume printing, printing on heavy media like cardstock or envelopes, and operating in hot environments can all shorten fuser life. Check your printer's specifications in the user manual for the rated page yield of its fuser unit.
How much does it cost to replace a Brother printer fuser unit?
Replacement fuser units for Brother printers typically range from $30 to $150 USD depending on the model. Higher-end or commercial laser printer models tend to have more expensive fuser units. Professional labor to install the fuser at a service center may add $50–$100 or more. In some cases, if the printer is older or lower-end, it may be more cost-effective to replace the entire printer.
Will error code 38 clear itself after the printer cools down?
Sometimes error code 38 will clear on its own after the printer has been fully powered off, unplugged, and allowed to cool for 30 or more minutes. However, if the underlying cause — such as poor ventilation, a paper jam, or a failing fuser — is not addressed, the error will return quickly during the next print job. Always identify and fix the root cause rather than simply waiting for the error to clear.

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