If vertical lines always appear on printouts or print always shifts from the correct position, or if Error 5100 occurs during printer operation, the Encoder Film inside the printer may be smeared.

Follow the procedures below to check the film condition, and clean it when necessary.

1. Press the power button to turn off the printer.

2. Unplug the power cord from the wall outlet or power strip.

3. Open the cover.

   

4. Check if the Encoder Film inside the printer is clear.

   

   It should be transparent.

5. If the Encoder Film is smeared as shown below, it needs to be cleaned.

   

If the Encoder Film is smeared, clean it while following the procedures below.

Items required:

• Cotton swab

• Water with a few drops of isopropyl alcohol or window cleaner

 Don't use any other detergents.

1. Moisten a cotton swab with isopropyl alcohol or window cleaner. Eliminate extra liquid from the cotton swab.

2. Using the moistened cotton swab, wipe the Encoder Film.

    Be careful so that no liquid drops inside the printer. 

   

   (A) Encoder Film

   (B) Rail

    Don't touch the rail (B). If the rail is touched, the print quality may be deteriorated.

    The Encoder Film (A) is fixed to the printer with the springs at the ends. If the film is pushed too strong, it may be dislocated. Do not push the film. Just gently move the cotton swab over the surface of the film.

    Keep your hands off the printer and clean the film with the tip of the cotton swab, as shown in the photo above.

    Change the cotton swab to new ones frequently. 

3. Eliminate any stains or smearing from the film until the entire film becomes transparent and clear.

   

4. If a trail of liquid is left on the film, clean it using a cotton swab that is moistened with just water.
   If moisture is left on the film, eliminate it using a dry cotton swab, and wait until the film dries well.

5. Close the cover, and plug in the power cord of the printer.

6. Press the ON button to turn on the printer.z

7. Print the Nozzle Check Pattern, and confirm that the pattern is printed properly.

8. Print a document or photo, and confirm that the print quality is good.
   If the problem persists, check and clean the Encoder Film again.

 Should another error or failure occur in the printer after cleaning the film, service is required.

There are two options currently available to you.

1. Warranty Service – If you are within the 1-year manufacturer’s warranty and have your proof of purchase you are entitled to service or replacement. If you have purchased a CarePak Canon extended warranty, you may be entitled to additional options.  Please create or log into your Canon Account to obtain service.
    
2. Out of Warranty – If you are outside of your warranty period, you may qualify for purchasing a replacement through the Canon Upgrade Program. Please contact our Sales group to inquire about your upgrade options at 866-443-8002.