Canon Printer Error Code E44 — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

Error E44 means your Canon printer has detected that the wrong print head is installed. The print head it found does not match what the printer expects for this model. Installing the correct print head for your specific printer model will fix this error.

Affected Models

Canon PIXMA MG Series
Canon PIXMA MX Series
Canon PIXMA MP Series
Canon PIXMA TS Series
Canon MAXIFY MB Series

Common Causes

A print head from a different Canon model was installed — even small model differences matter
The print head was replaced with a generic or third-party unit that is not compatible with this printer
The print head was not fully seated in its carriage, causing the printer to fail to identify it
The print head contacts are dirty with dried ink, preventing the printer from reading the head's ID
The original print head has failed internally and the printer can no longer communicate with it

How to Fix It

Turn the printer off and open the print head access cover. Allow the carriage to move to the center position.

Do not force the carriage to move while the printer is on. Let it come to a stop naturally before opening the cover.
Lift the print head lock lever and remove the print head from the carriage. Note the model number printed on the print head.

The model number is usually printed on a label on the top or side of the print head unit.
Compare the print head model number to your printer's specifications. Use Canon's website to confirm the correct part number for your specific printer model.

Even if the print head looks identical, different Canon models use slightly different head variants that are not interchangeable.
Clean the gold electrical contacts on the print head and on the carriage using a lint-free cloth lightly dampened with water.

Dried ink on the contacts can prevent the printer from recognizing the print head. Let the contacts dry completely before reinstalling.
Reinstall the print head firmly, press the lock lever down, and close the access cover. Power on the printer and check for the E44 error.

If E44 clears, run a nozzle check from the printer software to verify the print head is working correctly.

When to Call a Professional

If the correct print head is installed and properly seated but E44 persists, the print head itself has likely failed. A new Canon-genuine print head costs $40 to $100 depending on your model. For older printers, compare this cost to the price of a new printer before investing in a replacement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a third-party print head in my Canon printer?

Canon recommends only genuine Canon print heads. Third-party heads may trigger E44 because they do not carry the electronic ID that Canon printers look for. If you install a third-party head and get E44, the head is likely incompatible with your specific model.

How do I find the correct print head for my Canon printer?

Look up your printer's model number on the label on the bottom or back of the printer. Go to Canon's official website, search for your model, and check the accessories or compatible parts list. You can also search for your model number plus 'print head' on Canon's parts store.

Will cleaning the print head contacts really fix E44?

Sometimes yes, especially if the printer was working fine before and E44 appeared suddenly. Dried ink on the gold contacts mimics a 'wrong head' signal. However, if the print head itself is damaged or the wrong model, cleaning alone will not fix the error.