HP Printer Error Code E9: How to Fix It

Easy 5-10 minutes Low Severity Verified June 2026
Error Code
E9
Brand
HP
Product Type
printer
Severity
Low
DIY Difficulty
Easy
Estimated Fix Time
5-10 minutes
HP printer error code E9 appears when your printer detects that the output tray is full of printed pages or the tray is closed/not properly positioned. This is a simple paper handling issue that prevents your printer from continuing to print safely.
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Tools You'll Need

How to Fix Error Code E9

  1. Check for printed pages in output tray

  2. Verify output tray is fully extended

  3. Check for paper jams in output area

    Turn off the printer before removing any jammed paper to avoid damage to internal mechanisms.
  4. Clean output tray sensors

    Ensure the printer is unplugged before cleaning sensors to avoid electrical shock.
  5. Reset the printer

  6. Test with a small print job

Parts You May Need

Output tray assembly
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Lint-free cleaning cloths
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Output tray assembly
Check Price on Amazon
Lint-free cleaning cloths
Check Price on Amazon
Output tray assembly
Check Price on Amazon
Lint-free cleaning cloths
Check Price on Amazon
Output tray assembly
Check Price on Amazon
Lint-free cleaning cloths
Check Price on Amazon
Output tray assembly
Check Price on Amazon
Lint-free cleaning cloths
Check Price on Amazon
Output tray assembly
Check Price on Amazon
Lint-free cleaning cloths
Check Price on Amazon
Output tray assembly
Check Price on Amazon
Lint-free cleaning cloths
Check Price on Amazon
Output tray assembly
Check Price on Amazon
Lint-free cleaning cloths
Check Price on Amazon
Output tray assembly
Check Price on Amazon
Lint-free cleaning cloths
Check Price on Amazon
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When to Call a Professional

Contact HP support or a printer technician if the E9 error persists after following all steps, if you discover broken tray components, or if the output tray sensors appear damaged. Professional service may be needed for internal sensor replacement or mechanical tray repairs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my HP printer show error E9 when the tray isn't full?
The E9 error can appear due to dirty sensors, a partially closed output tray, or even a few sheets of paper that the sensor interprets as 'full.' Clean the sensors and ensure the tray is fully extended to resolve this.
Can I continue printing with HP error code E9?
No, the printer will not print while displaying error E9. The error must be resolved by emptying the output tray and ensuring it's properly positioned before printing can resume.
How do I prevent HP printer error E9 from happening again?
Regularly remove printed pages from the output tray, keep the tray clean, and ensure it's always fully extended when printing. Don't let printed pages accumulate beyond the tray's capacity.
Where are the output tray sensors on my HP printer?
Output tray sensors are typically small plastic tabs or optical sensors located inside the output tray area. They may be on the sides or bottom of the tray compartment and detect when pages are present.
What if my HP printer output tray is broken?
If the output tray is cracked, doesn't extend properly, or has broken sensor components, you'll need to replace the entire output tray assembly. Contact HP for genuine replacement parts or authorized service.