Brother Printer Error Code 46: How to Fix It

Q: Can I continue printing with Brother Error Code 46?

No, you cannot continue printing when Error 46 appears. The printer will remain locked until the waste ink absorber is replaced and the counter is reset to prevent ink overflow damage.

Q: How often does the waste ink absorber need replacement?

Waste ink absorber replacement frequency depends on print volume and cleaning cycles. Heavy users may need replacement every 6-12 months, while light users might go 2-3 years between replacements.

Q: Is Brother Error 46 covered under warranty?

Waste ink absorber replacement is typically considered normal maintenance and may not be covered under warranty. However, check with Brother support as coverage varies by model and warranty terms.

Q: Can I clean and reuse the waste ink absorber?

It's not recommended to clean and reuse waste ink absorber pads as they may not absorb ink effectively after cleaning, potentially leading to overflow and printer damage.

Q: What causes the waste ink absorber to fill up?

The waste ink absorber fills up from normal printer maintenance cycles like head cleaning, purging, and initial cartridge setup. Frequent cleaning cycles due to clogged nozzles accelerate the filling process.

Abstract

Brother Printer Error Code 46 (Machine Error 46) indicates that your printer's waste ink absorber is full and requires immediate service. This error occurs when the internal sponge pads that collect excess ink during cleaning cycles become saturated and can no longer absorb more ink.