Canon Printer Error Code E45 — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

Error E45 means the printer's EEPROM memory has a fault. EEPROM stores your printer's internal settings and page counter data. This error usually means the printer needs service.

Affected Models

Canon PIXMA MG2500 Series
Canon PIXMA MG3600 Series
Canon PIXMA TS3100 Series
Canon PIXMA TR4500 Series
Canon PIXMA MX490

Common Causes

The printer's EEPROM chip has worn out from too many write cycles
A power interruption occurred while the printer was writing to EEPROM
A firmware bug corrupted the data stored in EEPROM
The printer's power supply is unstable, causing EEPROM read/write errors
Hardware failure on the main logic board affecting the EEPROM circuit

How to Fix It

Turn the printer off and unplug it from the power outlet. Wait two full minutes.

This allows the capacitors to discharge and gives the EEPROM a chance to recover from a minor glitch.
Plug the printer back in and power it on. Watch whether E45 appears immediately or after an action.

If it clears on restart, it was a temporary glitch. Monitor closely over the next few days.
If E45 persists, try a hard reset. On most Canon PIXMA models, hold the Stop button and press Power, then release both.

Check your model's manual for the exact factory reset procedure.
If the hard reset does not work, check Canon's support site for any firmware updates.

A firmware bug may be the cause, and Canon occasionally releases patches for EEPROM issues.
If none of these steps work, contact Canon support or take the printer to a service center.

Persistent E45 errors require hardware-level diagnosis and usually a board replacement.

When to Call a Professional

Error E45 is typically not fixable by the user. It requires a Canon service technician to reflash or replace the main board. For budget PIXMA models, the repair cost may exceed the printer's value.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is EEPROM and why does it matter?

EEPROM is a type of memory that stores settings even when the printer is powered off. It holds data like ink level counters, page counts, and calibration settings. When EEPROM fails, the printer loses the ability to save or read these settings.

Is E45 covered under Canon's warranty?

If your printer is still within its warranty period, Canon should repair or replace it. Contact Canon support with your printer's serial number to check your warranty status. Out-of-warranty repairs can be costly for a budget PIXMA printer.

Can a power surge cause error E45?

Yes. A power surge during an EEPROM write operation can corrupt the stored data. Using a surge protector can help prevent this. If a surge occurred just before E45 appeared, the EEPROM data is likely corrupted.