B203
Canon Printer
Severity: CriticalWhat Does This Error Mean?
Canon error B203 is a serious printhead error that means the printer's internal hardware has detected a fault it cannot recover from on its own. This is commonly called a 'fatal hardware error' by Canon. The display may also show 'Contact service center.' In many cases this error requires either a printhead replacement or a full printer service.
Affected Models
- Canon PIXMA MG6320
- Canon PIXMA MG6420
- Canon PIXMA MG6820
- Canon PIXMA MX920 series
- Canon PIXMA MX922
Common Causes
- Printhead has failed internally due to electrical fault or physical damage
- Ink cartridge contacts have severe corrosion causing a communication failure with the printhead
- Main circuit board fault that is preventing normal printhead communication
- Printer recovered from a previous bad paper jam that damaged internal components
- Power surge that damaged the printhead or main board circuitry
How to Fix It
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Turn off the printer and unplug it completely from the power. Wait 5 full minutes. Plug it back in and turn it on. Some users have reported that a full power drain clears B203 on the first attempt, though this is not guaranteed.
This works most often when the error was triggered by a power spike or a temporary hardware glitch rather than actual hardware failure.
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Open the printer and carefully remove all ink cartridges. Clean the electrical contacts on each cartridge with a dry, lint-free cloth. Also clean the matching contacts inside the cartridge holder carefully.
Allow everything to dry before reinstalling. Dirty contacts can cause communication errors that some printers report as serious hardware faults.
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Reinstall the cartridges one at a time, making sure each clicks firmly into place. Close the printer and attempt to power it on. Observe whether the error clears during startup or returns immediately.
If the error clears initially but returns during printing, the printhead is likely failing gradually rather than completely.
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If your Canon PIXMA model has a replaceable printhead (a separate component from the ink cartridges), try replacing the printhead. On affected MG and MX models, the printhead sits beneath the ink cartridges and can be removed after lifting the cartridge lock lever.
Genuine Canon replacement printheads for affected models cost $30–$80. Installing a new printhead often resolves B203 on these models.
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If a new printhead does not clear the error, the main circuit board is likely damaged. At this point, consult a Canon authorized service center for a repair estimate. For older or lower-end printers, replacement may be more economical.
Canon's support line (1-800-652-2666) can advise on service options and whether any warranty applies to your situation.
When to Call a Professional
B203 is one of the more serious Canon error codes. A Canon service center can diagnose whether the printhead, main board, or both need replacement. For printers over 4–5 years old, the repair cost often approaches or exceeds the printer's value. Getting a repair estimate before committing is strongly recommended.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Canon B203 always a death sentence for the printer?
Not always. A significant number of users resolve B203 by replacing the printhead. Others fix it with a full power drain and cartridge contact cleaning. But it is one of the more serious Canon error codes, and for older printers, the repair may not be worth the cost. Always try the free fixes first before spending money on parts.
Can a paper jam cause B203?
A severe paper jam that required force to clear can sometimes damage the carriage assembly or cause a wiring connection to dislodge. If B203 appeared immediately after a difficult jam removal, check all visible internal connectors for any that may have come loose during the jam clearance.
Does Canon cover B203 under warranty?
If your printer is within the 1-year limited warranty period and the failure is not due to user damage, Canon will repair or replace it. Contact Canon support at 1-800-652-2666 with your model and serial number. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase date for warranty claims.