HP Printer Error Code E9 — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

The E9 error means there is a document jam in the Automatic Document Feeder (ADF). The ADF is the tray on top where you load pages for scanning or copying. A page is stuck inside and needs to be removed before the printer can continue.

Affected Models

HP OfficeJet Pro 8600 Series
HP OfficeJet Pro 9000 Series
HP ENVY Pro 6400 Series
HP DeskJet Plus 4100 Series
HP OfficeJet 5200 Series

Common Causes

A page got crumpled or folded while feeding through the ADF scanner
Multiple pages were grabbed at once and jammed together
The document had staples, paper clips, or sticky notes that caught inside
The ADF roller is worn out or dirty, causing it to misfeed pages
The document was too thick, too small, or printed on glossy paper that slipped

How to Fix It

Lift the ADF cover on top of the printer. Look for any jammed paper visible inside the feed path.

Gently pull the paper out in the direction it was traveling. Do not yank it sideways or it may tear.
If you cannot see the paper from the top, check underneath. Lift the scanner lid and look for paper stuck between the ADF rollers.

Use both hands to avoid bending or tearing the jammed page.
Remove any torn bits of paper. Even a tiny scrap left behind will cause the error to reappear.

A flashlight helps you see small pieces hidden in the roller area.
Clean the ADF rollers with a lint-free cloth dampened with water. Roll them gently with your finger to clean the full surface.

Dirty rollers are the number one cause of repeated ADF jams.
Reload your document in the ADF tray. Make sure the pages are straight, not stapled, and within the supported size range.

Fan the pages before loading to separate any sheets that are stuck together.

When to Call a Professional

The E9 error is almost always fixable at home by removing the jammed paper. If the ADF roller is visibly worn or the error keeps happening with normal paper, the roller may need replacement. A technician can replace it for roughly $50 to $90.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the ADF and does my printer have one?

The ADF (Automatic Document Feeder) is the tray on top of the printer where you load multiple pages for scanning or copying. Not all printers have one — budget models usually only have a flatbed scanner. If your printer has a hinged tray on top with paper guides, that is the ADF.

Can I still use the flatbed scanner while the ADF has an error?

Usually yes. You can lift the scanner lid and place documents directly on the glass to scan or copy. However, the E9 error should be cleared first by removing the jammed paper. The error may prevent some functions from working.

How do I prevent ADF jams in the future?

Always remove staples, paper clips, and sticky notes before loading documents. Fan the pages to separate them before placing them in the tray. Clean the ADF rollers every few months with a damp cloth.