Epson Printer Error Code W-51 — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

The W-51 error on an Epson printer means the maintenance box (waste ink collector) is completely full. The printer will stop printing until the maintenance box is replaced. This is a normal part of printer maintenance and not a sign that the printer is broken. Replace the maintenance box and the printer will work again immediately.

Affected Models

Epson EcoTank ET-2760
Epson EcoTank ET-4760
Epson EcoTank ET-3760
Epson WorkForce WF-4820
Epson EcoTank and WorkForce models with maintenance boxes

Common Causes

The maintenance box has reached its maximum ink capacity from normal printing and cleaning cycles
Running many print head cleaning cycles in a short time filled the box faster than normal
The printer has been in service for a long time without a maintenance box check
A previous W-50 warning was ignored until the box reached full capacity
The printer's waste ink counter was not reset after a previous maintenance box replacement

How to Fix It

Order the correct replacement maintenance box for your Epson model.

Common part numbers: T04D1 for EcoTank models, T6711/T6714 for older models. Check epson.com/support or your printer manual for your exact part number.
On the printer's control panel, tap Settings > Maintenance > Maintenance Box.

This screen shows the current fill level and guides you through the replacement process.
Locate the maintenance box on your printer — usually a small removable tray at the bottom or side.

On EcoTank models, it slides out from the front bottom. Consult your user manual if you can't find it.
Pull the old maintenance box straight out. Handle it carefully — it is full of liquid ink.

Seal the old box in a plastic bag immediately to avoid spills. Do not tilt or shake it.
Insert the new maintenance box firmly until it clicks into place.

Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the replacement and reset the counter. The printer should be ready to use immediately.

When to Call a Professional

W-51 does not require a technician — it is a user-serviceable item. Simply replace the maintenance box with the correct Epson part for your model. Maintenance boxes cost $15–$25 and take about 5 minutes to replace. If the W-51 error returns shortly after installing a new box, the printer's counter may need a manual reset — your user manual covers this step.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my Epson printer stop when the maintenance box is full?

The printer stops as a safety measure. If it kept printing with a full maintenance box, waste ink would overflow inside the machine and cause serious damage. The lockout protects the printer's internal components. Once you replace the box, the printer unlocks immediately.

Where can I buy an Epson maintenance box?

Maintenance boxes are available at Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, Staples, and directly from Epson's website. Search for your printer model + 'maintenance box' to find the right part. Prices range from $15 to $25. Make sure you buy the genuine Epson part — third-party versions may not reset the counter correctly.

I replaced the maintenance box but W-51 is still showing. What do I do?

This usually means the printer's internal counter was not reset. Go to Settings > Maintenance > Maintenance Box on the printer screen. Select the option to confirm a new box was installed and reset the counter. If that menu isn't available, try a power cycle (unplug for 30 seconds) after installing the new box.