Canon Printer Error Code 2900: How to Fix It

Medium 20-45 minutes Medium Severity Verified June 2026
Error Code
2900
Brand
Canon
Product Type
printer
Severity
Medium
DIY Difficulty
Medium
Estimated Fix Time
20-45 minutes
Canon printer error code 2900 appears when the scanner lamp inside your Canon all-in-one printer or copier is taking too long to warm up or has failed to initialize properly during a scan or copy job. This typically means the lamp isn't reaching the correct temperature or brightness level needed to scan documents accurately. While this is a medium-severity issue, it is often resolvable at home through a series of resets and checks before considering professional repair.
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Tools You'll Need

How to Fix Error Code 2900

  1. Power Cycle the Printer

    Always unplug the printer from the wall before performing any internal checks. Never attempt to open the scanner unit while the printer is powered on.
  2. Check the Scanner Glass and Lamp Area for Obstructions

    Do not use abrasive cloths or harsh chemical cleaners on the scanner glass, as this can permanently scratch or damage the scanning surface.
  3. Perform a Factory Reset on the Printer

    A factory reset will erase any custom network settings, fax settings, and saved preferences. Note down your Wi-Fi credentials and other settings before proceeding.
  4. Update or Reinstall the Printer Driver and Software

    Only download drivers directly from Canon's official website to avoid installing malware or incompatible software.
  5. Test the Scanner Lamp by Running a Diagnostic or Test Scan

    Do not stare directly at the scanner lamp when it illuminates, as it can emit bright light that may be uncomfortable to the eyes.
  6. Inspect the Scanner Lamp and Carriage Assembly (Advanced)

    Do not attempt to disassemble the printer beyond what is accessible with the scanner lid open. Opening the main chassis without proper training can void your warranty and risk injury from sharp internal components.

Parts You May Need

Scanner lamp unit
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Scanner carriage assembly
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Scanner glass panel
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Scanner lamp unit
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Scanner carriage assembly
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Scanner glass panel
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Scanner lamp unit
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Scanner carriage assembly
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Scanner glass panel
Check Price on Amazon
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When to Call a Professional

If the scanner lamp does not visibly illuminate during a scan attempt after completing all troubleshooting steps — including power cycling, cleaning, factory reset, and driver reinstallation — the internal scanner lamp unit or the scanner carriage assembly has likely failed and requires replacement by a qualified Canon service technician. Additionally, if the printer is still under Canon's limited warranty, contact Canon Support (1-800-OK-CANON) before attempting any internal repairs, as self-service may void the warranty. Professional service is also recommended if error code 2900 appears alongside other error codes, as this may indicate a broader internal failure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Canon error code 2900 mean?
Canon error code 2900 means the scanner lamp inside your Canon printer is failing to warm up or initialize correctly. The scanner lamp needs to reach a specific light output level before a scan or copy job can start, and this error appears when that process takes too long or fails entirely.
Can I still print even when error 2900 is showing?
In many cases, yes — Canon error 2900 is specifically related to the scanner function, so standard printing from your computer may still work. However, copy jobs and scanning will be unavailable until the error is resolved, and on some Canon models the error may block all operations.
How do I reset a Canon printer to fix error 2900?
To reset most Canon printers, press and hold the Stop/Reset button for 5 seconds while the printer is powered on. On models with a touchscreen menu, go to Device Settings, then Reset Settings, and select Reset All. After the reset, allow the printer to fully restart and test the scanner again.
How long does the Canon scanner lamp take to warm up normally?
Under normal conditions, a Canon scanner lamp warms up within a few seconds — typically 3 to 10 seconds — before a scan begins. If the lamp is taking noticeably longer or never completes the warm-up, error 2900 will be triggered. Cold ambient room temperatures can sometimes slow warm-up slightly, but should not cause a full error.
Is it worth repairing a Canon printer with error 2900 or should I replace it?
If your Canon printer is relatively new or a higher-end model, repairing the scanner lamp assembly is usually worth the cost. However, for entry-level or older Canon PIXMA printers, repair costs from a service technician may approach or exceed the cost of a new printer. Compare the estimated repair quote against current prices for a comparable replacement model before committing to professional service.