Canon Printer Error Code E33 — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

Error E33 means your Canon printer failed to pick up or feed paper from the tray. The printer tried to pull a sheet into the machine but the paper did not move as expected. This is usually caused by low paper, slippery paper, or worn feed rollers.

Affected Models

Canon PIXMA MG Series
Canon PIXMA MX Series
Canon imageCLASS MF Series
Canon MAXIFY MB Series
Canon PIXMA TR Series

Common Causes

The paper tray is empty or has too few sheets left for the rollers to grip reliably
The paper stack is loaded unevenly or the tray guides are not snug against the paper
Glossy or coated paper is sticking together, causing multiple sheets to feed or none to feed
The pickup roller is worn smooth and can no longer grip the paper surface
The paper is damp or has absorbed humidity, causing the sheets to stick together

How to Fix It

Press the Stop/Reset button to clear the error. Open the paper tray and remove all paper from it.

Take out the entire stack — even if the tray looks full, the paper may be misaligned.
Fan the paper stack vigorously to separate the sheets and remove any static buildup between them.

This is especially important with glossy or freshly unwrapped paper, which tends to stick together.
Reload the paper neatly into the tray. Adjust the side guides and rear guide so they touch the paper edges snugly — not tight enough to bend the paper.

Loose guides are one of the most common causes of E33 on Canon PIXMA printers.
Make sure the paper stack is not above the maximum fill line marked inside the tray.

Overloading the tray puts too much pressure on the bottom sheets and can cause feed failures.
Press the OK or Start button to retry printing. If E33 returns, try loading only 10 to 20 sheets at a time to reduce tray weight.

If single sheets also fail to feed, the pickup roller is worn and needs replacement.

When to Call a Professional

E33 is almost always a paper loading or roller issue you can fix at home. If the error persists with fresh paper and correct loading, the pickup roller assembly may need replacement. Roller kits for Canon printers typically cost $15 to $40.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does paper brand or quality make a difference with Canon printers?

Yes. Canon printers perform best with standard 20 lb (75 g/m²) copy paper or Canon-branded paper. Cheap, thin, or recycled paper is more likely to cause feed errors and jams. For photo printing, always use paper rated for your specific Canon model.

How can I tell if my Canon's pickup roller is worn out?

Open the tray and look at the rubber roller that touches the paper — it should have a textured, grippy surface. If the rubber looks shiny, smooth, or cracked, it is worn and cannot grip paper reliably. You can also hear the difference: a worn roller often makes a squeaking or spinning sound without feeding.

Can humidity cause E33 errors?

Yes. Paper stored in a humid environment absorbs moisture and the sheets stick together. Store paper in a sealed bag or in a dry room away from windows and heat sources. If your paper feels soft or limp, let it sit in a dry area for a few hours before loading.