Canon Printer Error Code 1403: How to Fix It
Medium 20-45 minutes Medium Severity
Verified June 2026
- Error Code
- 1403
- Brand
- Canon
- Product Type
- printer
- Severity
- Medium
- DIY Difficulty
- Medium
- Estimated Fix Time
- 20-45 minutes
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Tools You'll Need
- Lint-free cloth or cotton swabs
- Distilled water (for cleaning contacts)
- Printer user manual or model number for reference
- Correct compatible Canon print head for your printer model
How to Fix Error Code 1403
-
Power Off and Unplug the Printer
Always unplug the printer before opening the print head cover or touching internal components to avoid electrical shock or damage to the printer. -
Open the Print Head Cover and Locate the Print Head
Do not force the carriage. Move it gently by hand only when the printer is fully powered off and unplugged. -
Remove the Currently Installed Print Head
Avoid touching the gold electrical contacts or the ink nozzles on the bottom of the print head, as oils from your fingers can cause clogs or connection failures. -
Verify the Correct Print Head Model for Your Printer
-
Clean the Print Head Carriage Contacts
Do not use tap water, alcohol, or chemical cleaners on the electrical contacts as this can cause corrosion or permanent damage. -
Install the Correct Compatible Print Head
Do not force the print head into place. If it does not seat smoothly, remove it and check the orientation — installing it incorrectly can damage the carriage contacts. -
Close the Cover, Plug In, and Power On
-
Check for Error Clearance and Run a Test Print
-
If Error Persists, Reset the Printer
A factory reset will erase any custom network settings, so have your Wi-Fi password available to reconnect the printer to your network afterward.
Parts You May Need
Compatible Canon print head
Check Price on Amazon
Lint-free cleaning cloths
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Cotton swabs
Check Price on Amazon
Compatible Canon print head
Check Price on Amazon
Lint-free cleaning cloths
Check Price on Amazon
Cotton swabs
Check Price on Amazon
Compatible Canon print head
Check Price on Amazon
Lint-free cleaning cloths
Check Price on Amazon
Cotton swabs
Check Price on Amazon
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When to Call a Professional
If you have installed the confirmed correct print head and the error 1403 still appears after cleaning the contacts and resetting the printer, the print head carriage contacts or the carriage assembly itself may be damaged. At this point, the repair requires specialized tools and technical knowledge to replace the carriage assembly, and it is best handled by a Canon-authorized service technician. Additionally, if your printer is still under warranty, contact Canon Support before performing any further DIY repairs to avoid voiding the warranty.Frequently Asked Questions
What does Canon error code 1403 mean?
Canon error code 1403 means the printer has detected that the installed print head is not compatible with your specific printer model. This can happen if the wrong print head was purchased and installed, or if the correct print head is not seated properly in the carriage.
How do I know which print head is compatible with my Canon printer?
Check the model number on the label located on the front, bottom, or back of your Canon printer. Then visit Canon's official website or check the documentation that came with your printer to identify the exact compatible print head model. Canon print heads are model-specific and are not universally interchangeable, even between printers that look similar.
Can I fix Canon error 1403 without buying a new print head?
If the correct print head is already installed, you may be able to fix error 1403 by removing the print head, cleaning the gold electrical contacts on both the print head and the carriage with a dry lint-free cloth, reseating the print head firmly, and performing a printer reset. However, if the wrong print head is installed, you will need to purchase and install the correct compatible model.
Will Canon error 1403 damage my printer if I keep using it?
Error 1403 will prevent the printer from operating entirely — it will not print until the issue is resolved. The error itself does not cause damage, but attempting to force the printer to operate or installing incompatible parts repeatedly could damage the carriage contacts over time. Address the error promptly by installing the correct print head.
How much does it cost to replace a Canon print head?
The cost of a replacement Canon print head varies by printer model, typically ranging from $30 to $100 or more for consumer PIXMA models, and higher for professional-grade models. It is important to purchase the exact compatible print head for your printer model rather than a cheaper generic alternative, as off-brand or incompatible units can trigger error 1403 or cause additional printing problems.