If you get poor print results, you may need to align the print head. You can do this right from the printer's operation panel. Follow the video or written instructions below to learn how.

 The print head can also be aligned manually from a Windows PC or a Mac^®.

Before you begin

1. Print a nozzle check pattern to confirm that all colors are present. If any colors are missing from the nozzle check, the print head alignment sheet won't print correctly.

2. If the remaining ink level is low, the print head alignment sheet won't print correctly. Replace the FINE cartridge if necessary.

3. Get a clean white sheet of A4 or Letter-sized plain paper.

Create and scan the print head alignment sheet

1. Make sure the printer is ON.

2. Load a clean white sheet of A4 or Letter-sized plain paper in the front tray.

3. Open the paper output tray (A) and the output tray extension (B).

   

4. Extend the paper output support (C).

   

5. ​Hold down the Stop button until the light flashes four times, then release it quickly. ​
   Next, you will scan the sheet that prints.

6. Place the print head alignment sheet printed side down on the glass surface. Match the mark  on the bottom right corner of the sheet to the alignment mark  on the printer.

• Don't touch the printed part of the print head alignment sheet. If the sheet is stained or wrinkled, it may not scan properly.

• Don't open the document cover or move the print head alignment sheet until the scan is complete.

• If the print head alignment sheet doesn't print correctly, press the Stop button and start the process again.

  
  .
   

2. Close the document cover gently, then press the Black or Color button.

• The machine starts scanning the print head alignment sheet, and the print head position adjusts automatically.

• The print head adjustment is complete when the ON lamp lights after flashing.

3. Remove the print head alignment sheet from the glass surface.

Additional help

If the adjustment fails, the light will flash. Note the number of flashes,then press the Black or Color button to release the error. Get more information about light flashes.

If your product issue was not resolved after following the steps above, or if you require additional help, please create or log in to your Canon Account to see your technical support options.

Or if you still need help, visit our Canon Community by clicking the button below to get answers:

____________________________________________________________________________________________