Canon Printer Error 1300 — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

Canon error 1300 means there is a paper jam in your printer. A sheet of paper has become stuck inside the machine and is blocking the paper feed path. This is one of the most common printer errors and is almost always a self-service fix. Locate the jammed paper and gently remove it — do not use force.

Affected Models

Canon PIXMA MG series
Canon PIXMA MX series
Canon PIXMA TS series
Canon MAXIFY series
Most Canon inkjet printers

Common Causes

Paper fed at an angle and got caught in the rollers
Multiple sheets fed at once (multi-feed) causing a jam
Paper that is too thick, wrinkled, or damp for the printer to feed properly
Worn paper feed rollers that can no longer grip and guide paper correctly
Small torn piece of paper left from a previous jam blocking the path

How to Fix It

Turn off the printer and open all access doors — typically the front cover and the rear access panel. Look inside with a flashlight to find the jammed paper. Note where it is stuck before attempting removal.

Canon printers have multiple access points for jam removal. Consult your printer's quick start guide to see all access locations for your model.
Grip the jammed paper firmly near the middle and pull it out slowly and steadily in the direction the paper normally travels — usually straight out toward you. Avoid pulling at sharp angles that could tear the paper.

If the paper is near the output tray, pull gently toward the output slot. If it is deep inside, use the rear access door.
If the paper tears, carefully remove all pieces. Even a small torn corner left inside the printer will cause the next sheet to jam immediately. Use a flashlight to check all corners of the paper path.

Do not use metal tools or tweezers to pull paper pieces — they can damage the internal rollers and sensors.
Once all paper is removed, close all covers, turn the printer on, and press the Resume or Stop button to clear the error. The printer should initialize and be ready to print.

If the error light keeps blinking after the jam is cleared and the printer is turned on, try turning it off and back on again.
Load fresh paper into the tray before printing again. Fan the paper to separate the sheets. Make sure the paper guides in the tray are snug but not tight against the paper stack. Ensure you are using paper that matches the printer's supported media types.

Always use fresh, flat, uncrumpled paper. Storing paper in humid environments causes it to warp and jam more easily.

When to Call a Professional

Paper jams are almost always a DIY fix. If the printer repeatedly jams with every print job, the paper feed rollers may be worn and need cleaning or replacement. Roller cleaning kits are available for most Canon models. A technician can also replace rollers during a service call — typically $80–$150.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my Canon printer keep jamming?

Frequent jams usually mean the paper feed rollers are dirty or worn. Rollers pick up paper dust and oil over time, reducing their grip. Cleaning the rollers with a lint-free cloth dampened with distilled water often restores their grip. If cleaning doesn't help, replacement rollers are available for most Canon models.

Can I use any type of paper in a Canon printer?

Canon printers support a range of paper types and weights. For standard printing, use 20 lb (75–80 gsm) plain paper. Avoid paper that is damp, curled, or has been previously printed on. Very thick cardstock or paper outside the supported weight range is more prone to jamming. Check your printer manual for the specific supported media list.

My Canon printer shows 1300 but I can't find any paper inside — why?

If the jam is cleared but the error persists, there may be a tiny piece of torn paper still inside that you haven't found. Check the rear access door area carefully. Also check the paper path with the front cover open. Turn the printer off and on again after a thorough check to reset the jam sensor.