13.1
HP Printer
Severity: MinorWhat Does This Error Mean?
The 13.1 error means there is a paper jam inside your HP LaserJet printer. Paper is stuck somewhere in the paper path and needs to be physically removed. This is one of the most common printer errors and is easy to fix yourself.
Affected Models
- HP LaserJet Pro M400 Series
- HP LaserJet Pro M200 Series
- HP LaserJet Enterprise M600 Series
- HP LaserJet Pro MFP M428
- HP Color LaserJet Pro M255
Common Causes
- A sheet of paper got crumpled or folded while passing through the printer
- The paper tray was overfilled beyond the maximum capacity line
- The paper is wrinkled, damp, or curled at the edges, causing it to misfeed
- The pickup rollers are worn smooth and cannot grip paper properly
- Small torn pieces from a previous jam were left inside the printer
How to Fix It
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Turn off the printer and open the front cover. Remove the toner cartridge to get a clear view inside.
Set the toner cartridge on a sheet of paper in a dark area to protect the drum from light.
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Look inside the printer for jammed paper. If you see paper, grasp it with both hands and pull it out slowly and evenly.
Pull in the direction the paper was traveling — usually toward the front. Pulling backward can tear the paper.
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Open the rear access door and check for paper stuck in the back of the printer near the fuser area.
The fuser area may be hot. Let the printer cool for a few minutes before reaching in.
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Check the paper tray for torn scraps. Remove the tray completely and look underneath it as well.
Even a tiny piece of paper left behind will cause the jam error to persist.
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Reinstall the toner cartridge, close all covers, and turn the printer back on. Try printing a test page.
If the jam error continues, there may still be paper hidden inside. Repeat the inspection carefully.
When to Call a Professional
Paper jams are almost always fixable at home. If jams happen frequently even with fresh, high-quality paper, the pickup rollers may be worn out. A roller replacement costs about $30 to $80 including labor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my HP printer keep jamming repeatedly?
Repeated jams are usually caused by worn pickup rollers or low-quality paper. Try using a fresh ream of standard 20-lb paper. If that does not help, the rollers may need cleaning or replacement.
Can I use the printer if I cannot find the jammed paper?
No. The printer will not operate until the jam is fully cleared. If you cannot see the paper, try opening all access points — front, rear, and any side panels. Sometimes paper gets stuck between the fuser and the output tray.
Does a paper jam damage the printer?
A single paper jam will not damage your printer. However, yanking paper out forcefully can scratch the drum or damage the rollers. Always pull jammed paper out gently and steadily to avoid causing damage.