Canon Printer Error Code 1313: How to Fix It

Medium 20-45 minutes Medium Severity Verified June 2026
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Error Code
1313
Brand
Canon
Product Type
printer
Severity
Medium
DIY Difficulty
Medium
Estimated Fix Time
20-45 minutes
Canon printer error code 1313 indicates a paper feed motor fault, meaning the motor responsible for pulling paper through your printer has stalled, jammed, or failed to respond correctly. This is commonly triggered by a paper jam, debris inside the feed path, or a worn paper feed roller that prevents the motor from turning smoothly. While the error sounds serious, it can often be resolved at home without professional help by clearing obstructions and cleaning the feed components.
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Tools You'll Need

How to Fix Error Code 1313

  1. Power Off and Unplug the Printer

    Never reach inside a powered printer. Always unplug before inspecting internal components to avoid electric shock or injury from moving parts.

  2. Check for and Remove Any Paper Jams

    Do not use scissors or sharp tools inside the printer. Torn paper fragments left inside are a common cause of recurring jams and motor faults.

  3. Inspect and Clean the Paper Feed Rollers

    Do not use paper towels, as they can leave fibers behind. Never spray liquids directly into the printer.

  4. Remove Debris from the Paper Path

    Use compressed air in a well-ventilated area. Wear a dust mask if you are sensitive to dust particles.

  5. Check the Paper Tray and Paper Stack

  6. Plug In and Power On — Attempt a Test Print

  7. Update or Reinstall Printer Drivers and Firmware

    Do not power off or disconnect the printer during a firmware update. Interrupting the process can permanently damage the printer's firmware.

  8. Inspect the Paper Feed Motor (Advanced)

    Disassembling the printer beyond the user-accessible panels voids the warranty on newer models. Only proceed if the printer is out of warranty and you are comfortable with electronics repair.

Parts You May Need

Paper feed roller
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Paper feed motor
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Paper feed motor gear assembly
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Paper feed roller
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Paper feed motor
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Paper feed motor gear assembly
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Paper feed roller
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Paper feed motor
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Paper feed motor gear assembly
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When to Call a Professional

You should contact a Canon-authorized service technician if: the error 1313 persists after completing all steps above, you hear grinding or clicking sounds from inside the printer suggesting the motor or gear train is physically broken, the printer is still under warranty (DIY disassembly will void it), or you have confirmed through disassembly that the paper feed motor is seized or burned out and you are not comfortable replacing internal components. Canon's support line (1-800-828-4040 in the US) can arrange authorized repair or advise on service center locations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes Canon printer error code 1313?
Error 1313 is a paper feed motor fault, most commonly caused by a paper jam blocking the motor, worn or dirty paper feed rollers that prevent smooth paper movement, debris inside the paper path, or in rarer cases, a physically failed paper feed motor or its gear assembly.
Can I fix Canon error 1313 myself without taking the printer apart?
Yes, in most cases. The majority of 1313 errors are resolved by clearing paper jams, cleaning the feed rollers with isopropyl alcohol, blowing out debris with compressed air, and updating the printer's firmware. Full disassembly is only needed if the motor or its gears are physically damaged.
Will error 1313 go away on its own after a restart?
A simple power cycle (turning the printer off and unplugging it for 60 seconds) can clear the error if it was caused by a temporary motor stall. However, if the underlying cause — such as dirty rollers or debris — is not addressed, the error will return after a few print attempts.
How do I prevent Canon error 1313 from coming back?
Clean your paper feed rollers every 3-6 months using isopropyl alcohol, always fan your paper before loading it, avoid overfilling the paper tray, keep the printer in a dust-free area, and use only Canon-recommended paper types and weights for your specific model.
Is error 1313 the same across all Canon printer models?
The 1313 error code specifically relates to a paper feed motor fault across many Canon PIXMA and MAXIFY series printers, but the exact component layout and repair approach can vary by model. Always consult your model's user manual or Canon's online support for model-specific guidance.

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