Canon Printer Error Code 5700: How to Fix It

Medium 30-60 minutes Medium Severity Verified June 2026
Error Code
5700
Brand
Canon
Product Type
printer
Severity
Medium
DIY Difficulty
Medium
Estimated Fix Time
30-60 minutes
Canon printer error code 5700 indicates an ASF (Automatic Sheet Feeder) cam sensor error, meaning the printer cannot properly detect the position of the paper feed cam mechanism. This typically happens due to a paper jam, debris inside the feeder, a stuck or dirty cam sensor, or a damaged ASF cam assembly. In many cases, clearing obstructions and resetting the printer resolves the issue without needing replacement parts.
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Tools You'll Need

How to Fix Error Code 5700

  1. Power Off and Unplug the Printer

    Always unplug the printer before reaching inside or inspecting internal components. Working on a powered device can cause electric shock or damage to the printer's circuit board.
  2. Check for and Remove Any Paper Jams

    Do not yank paper forcefully — torn pieces left inside can worsen the jam. Use a flashlight to check hard-to-see areas.
  3. Inspect and Clean the ASF Cam Sensor Area

    Do not use wet cloths or spray cleaning liquids directly inside the printer. Moisture can damage the sensor and circuit board.
  4. Manually Rotate the ASF Cam to Check for Obstructions

    Only apply light pressure when manually moving internal components. Forcing a stuck cam can cause permanent mechanical damage.
  5. Plug In and Perform a Hard Reset

  6. Run a Printer Self-Test Page

  7. Inspect the ASF Cam Sensor Connector and Wiring

    Opening the printer casing may void your warranty. Only proceed if the printer is out of warranty. Unplug the printer before disassembling any panels.
  8. Replace the ASF Cam Sensor or ASF Unit if Damaged

    Use only parts designed for your specific Canon printer model. Installing an incompatible part can cause further damage. If you are not comfortable with internal disassembly, contact a Canon-certified technician.

Parts You May Need

Automatic Sheet Feeder (ASF) unit assembly
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ASF cam sensor ribbon cable or connector
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Automatic Sheet Feeder (ASF) unit assembly
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ASF cam sensor ribbon cable or connector
Check Price on Amazon
Automatic Sheet Feeder (ASF) unit assembly
Check Price on Amazon
ASF cam sensor ribbon cable or connector
Check Price on Amazon
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When to Call a Professional

If error 5700 persists after clearing jams, cleaning the sensor, resetting the printer, and reseating all connectors, the ASF cam sensor or ASF motor unit is likely failed and needs professional replacement. You should also call a Canon-certified technician if you are uncomfortable disassembling the printer's internal casing, if the cam assembly gears appear broken or cracked, or if any wiring is visibly burned or corroded. Canon also offers an official repair service — check canon.com/support for service center locations if your printer is still under warranty, as self-repair may void coverage.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does error code 5700 mean on a Canon printer?
Error code 5700 on a Canon printer means the printer has detected an ASF (Automatic Sheet Feeder) cam sensor error. The printer cannot read the correct position of the paper feed cam, which prevents it from feeding paper properly. This is commonly caused by a paper jam, dust buildup on the sensor, or a faulty ASF cam sensor component.
Can I fix Canon error 5700 myself without a technician?
Yes, in many cases you can fix Canon error 5700 yourself. The most common causes — paper jams and dirty sensors — can be resolved at home by clearing any jammed paper, cleaning the ASF cam sensor with compressed air and a dry lint-free cloth, and performing a hard reset. If the sensor or cam assembly is physically damaged, you may need to replace parts, which requires more comfort with printer disassembly.
How do I reset a Canon printer after error 5700?
To reset a Canon printer after error 5700, first unplug the printer and wait 60 seconds. Then plug it back in and hold the Stop/Reset button while pressing the Power button. Keep holding Stop/Reset for about 5 seconds after the printer powers on, then release. This performs a hard reset and clears stored error codes. If the error returns, the underlying hardware issue needs to be resolved first.
Why does my Canon printer keep showing error 5700 after I clear the paper jam?
If error 5700 returns even after clearing a paper jam, there is likely residual paper debris still inside the feeder, a dirty ASF cam sensor that needs cleaning, or the sensor itself has been damaged. Try using compressed air to blow out the entire paper path, manually check that the cam rotates freely, and clean the sensor with a dry cotton swab. If the error still returns, the cam sensor may need to be replaced.
Is Canon error 5700 covered under warranty?
Whether Canon error 5700 is covered under warranty depends on your printer's age and the cause of the failure. Canon printers typically come with a 1-year limited warranty. If the ASF cam sensor has failed due to a manufacturing defect and your printer is within the warranty period, Canon may repair or replace it at no cost. However, if the sensor was damaged by a paper jam or physical misuse, it may not be covered. Contact Canon support at canon.com/support to check your warranty status before attempting repairs yourself.