HP Printer Error Code 59: How to Fix It

Medium 30-90 minutes Medium Severity Verified June 2026
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Error Code
59
Brand
HP
Product Type
printer
Severity
Medium
DIY Difficulty
Medium
Estimated Fix Time
30-90 minutes
HP Error Code 59 indicates a main motor failure or malfunction inside your HP laser printer. The main motor is responsible for driving the paper feed rollers and other internal moving components, so when it stalls or fails, the printer cannot complete a print job. This error can be caused by a paper jam, a worn or faulty motor, a corrupted firmware, or a loose cable connection inside the printer.
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Tools You'll Need

How to Fix Error Code 59

  1. Power Cycle the Printer

    Always unplug the printer from the wall before opening any access panels or reaching inside the printer to avoid electric shock or injury from moving parts.

  2. Check for and Clear Any Paper Jams

    Do not force paper out. If paper is deeply jammed and resistance is felt, stop and consult the printer's manual for that specific access point before applying force.

  3. Inspect and Clean the Paper Feed Rollers

    Do not use water or household cleaners on the rollers. Excess moisture can damage electrical components inside the printer.

  4. Remove and Reseat the Toner Cartridge

    Avoid shaking the cartridge too vigorously or touching the drum surface, as this can damage the cartridge and affect print quality.

  5. Update or Restore Printer Firmware

    Never interrupt a firmware update by unplugging or powering off the printer. This can permanently corrupt the printer's firmware and require professional service to recover.

  6. Check Internal Cable Connections

    Opening the printer casing may void your warranty. Ensure the printer is fully unplugged and that you are working in a static-safe environment. Use an anti-static wrist strap if available.

  7. Replace the Main Motor Assembly

    Replacing the main motor is an advanced repair. If you are not confident working with small electromechanical assemblies, contact an HP-certified technician instead of attempting this repair.

Parts You May Need

Main motor assembly
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Paper feed roller kit
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Motor cable harness
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Main motor assembly
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Paper feed roller kit
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Motor cable harness
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Main motor assembly
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Paper feed roller kit
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Motor cable harness
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When to Call a Professional

If you have completed all steps including reseating cables and replacing the main motor assembly and error code 59 persists, the issue may lie with the DC controller board or formatter board, which are complex components that require professional diagnostic equipment to test and replace. Additionally, if your printer is under warranty, contact HP Support directly at 1-800-474-6836 before attempting any internal repairs, as DIY servicing may void your coverage. A certified HP service technician or authorized repair center should be contacted if the printer is a high-volume office model where downtime is costly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does error code 59 mean on an HP printer?
Error code 59 on an HP printer indicates a main motor error. The main motor drives the internal paper feed mechanism and other moving components. When the printer detects that this motor is not running at the correct speed, has stalled, or is not responding, it stops the print job and displays error code 59 to prevent internal damage.
Can I fix HP error code 59 myself without a technician?
Yes, in many cases you can fix error code 59 yourself. Start with simple fixes like power cycling the printer, clearing paper jams, cleaning the feed rollers, and updating the firmware. These steps resolve the majority of error 59 cases. If the motor itself has mechanically failed, replacing it is a medium-difficulty DIY repair, but it does require opening the printer casing and working with internal components.
How much does it cost to fix HP printer error code 59?
If the fix is as simple as clearing a paper jam or updating firmware, the cost is zero. Replacement paper feed rollers typically cost between $10 and $30. A replacement main motor assembly for an HP laser printer generally ranges from $20 to $80 depending on the model. Professional repair labor can add $50 to $150 on top of parts costs, making DIY repair the more economical choice when possible.
Why does my HP printer keep showing error 59 after I clear it?
If error code 59 keeps returning after you clear it, the main motor is likely worn out and failing intermittently, or there is an underlying issue with the DC controller board sending incorrect signals to the motor. A recurring error 59 that cannot be resolved by cleaning, reseating connections, or firmware updates is a strong indicator that the main motor assembly needs to be replaced.
Does error code 59 only affect HP laser printers?
Yes, error code 59 is specific to HP laser printers and multifunction laser devices. Inkjet printers use a different motor and drive system and display different error codes for motor-related issues. If you own an HP LaserJet, Color LaserJet, or HP multifunction laser printer and see error 59, it refers directly to the main motor that drives the laser printer's internal paper transport system.

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