The Epson Printer Error Code 0x97 is a common issue that affects various WorkForce and EcoTank series models. This error typically appears due to an internal hardware failure, such as a malfunctioning motherboard or printhead. When this error occurs, your printer may suddenly stop working, and you might see a flashing error message on the LCD screen.

In this guide, we will explain what causes Error 0x97 and provide step-by-step solutions to fix it.

What Causes Epson Printer Error Code 0x97?

Epson Error Code 0x97 usually happens due to:

🛑 Printhead failure – The printhead is clogged or damaged.

🛑 Motherboard issue – An electrical failure on the printer’s mainboard.
🛑 Paper jam or foreign objects – Paper debris or small objects stuck inside the printer.
🛑 Waste ink pad overflow – The ink absorber is full, causing the error.
🛑 Cartridge recognition issue – The printer cannot detect the ink cartridges properly.
 

Now, let’s go through the step-by-step solutions to fix the Epson 0x97 error.

Solution 1: Restart Your Printer (Soft Reset)

The first and easiest way to fix Error 0x97 is by restarting the printer.

Steps to Restart Epson Printer:

  1. Turn off your printer and unplug it from the power outlet.
  2. Disconnect all USB cables and remove the ink cartridges.
  3. Wait for 5 minutes to allow the printer to reset internally.
  4. Press and hold the Power button for 30 seconds.
  5. Reinsert the ink cartridges, reconnect all cables, and turn on the printer.

🔹 Test Print: If the error is gone, your printer is ready to use. If not, proceed to the next step.

Solution 2: Run the Epson Printer Troubleshooter

Windows has a built-in printer troubleshooter that can help detect and fix common printer errors.

Steps to Run Windows Printer Troubleshooter:

  1. Press Win + I to open Windows Settings.
  2. Go to Devices > Printers & Scanners.
  3. Select your Epson printer and click Manage.
  4. Click Run the troubleshooter and follow the on-screen instructions.

🔹 Test Print: Try printing a page after the troubleshooting process.

Solution 3: Clean the Printhead

A clogged printhead can trigger Error 0x97 by blocking ink flow. You can clean the printhead manually to fix this issue.

Steps to Clean the Printhead Manually:

  1. Turn off the printer and unplug it.
  2. Open the printer cover and remove the ink cartridges.
  3. Take a soft cloth or cotton swab and soak it in warm water.
  4. Gently wipe the printhead nozzles to remove dried ink or debris.
  5. Let the printhead dry for 10 minutes, then reinsert the cartridges.
  6. Close the printer cover and turn the printer back on.

🔹 Test Print: Run a printhead cleaning cycle from the printer settings and try printing again.

Solution 4: Perform a Hard Reset on Your Epson Printer

A hard reset can clear temporary glitches and fix Error 0x97.

Steps to Hard Reset Epson Printer:

  1. Turn off the printer and unplug it.
  2. Press and hold the Power button for 60 seconds.
  3. While holding the Power button, plug the printer back in.
  4. Release the button and turn on the printer.

🔹 Test Print: If the error persists, proceed to the next fix.

Solution 5: Update Epson Printer Drivers

If your Epson printer drivers are outdated, it may cause Error 0x97. Updating the drivers can resolve the problem.

Steps to Update Epson Printer Drivers:

  1. Go to Epson’s official website: https://www.epson.com/Support
  2. Enter your printer model and download the latest driver.
  3. Install the new driver and restart your computer.
  4. Go to Control Panel > Devices and Printers and set your Epson printer as default.

🔹 Test Print: Try printing a document to check if the error is resolved.

Solution 6: Check for Paper Jams & Foreign Objects

A small piece of paper or foreign object inside the printer can cause Error 0x97.

Steps to Remove Paper Jams & Objects:

  1. Turn off the printer and open the paper tray.
  2. Inspect the paper feed rollers for any stuck paper.
  3. If you find any, gently remove it without tearing.
  4. Use a flashlight to check inside for any small foreign objects.
  5. Close the cover and restart the printer.

🔹 Test Print: Print a test page to see if the issue is resolved.

Solution 7: Reset the Waste Ink Pad Counter

If your printer’s waste ink pad is full, it can cause Error 0x97. You can reset the waste ink counter using the Epson Adjustment Program (Resetter Tool).

Steps to Reset Waste Ink Pad Counter:

  1. Download the Epson Resetter Software from a trusted source.
  2. Extract and run the adjustment program (AdjProg.exe).
  3. Select your printer model and click OK.
  4. Choose Waste Ink Pad Counter Reset from the menu.
  5. Click Check, then select Initialize to reset the counter.
  6. Restart your printer.

🔹 Test Print: If the red light stops blinking, your printer is back to normal!

Solution 8: Contact Epson Support or Replace the Printer

If none of the above solutions work, the problem may be a motherboard failure or hardware defect. In this case, contact Epson support or consider replacing the printer.

How to Contact Epson Support:

📞 Call Epson Customer Service (find your country-specific number on Epson's website).

🌍 Visit Epson Support Page and check for warranty options.
🛠️ If your printer is out of warranty, take it to a certified Epson repair center.

Final Thoughts

If your Epson printer displays Error Code 0x97, don’t panic! Follow these step-by-step solutions:

✅ Restart the printer and perform a soft reset.

✅ Run the Windows printer troubleshooter.
✅ Clean the printhead to remove clogs.
✅ Perform a hard reset to clear internal glitches.
✅ Update Epson printer drivers for compatibility.
✅ Check for paper jams and foreign objects.
✅ Reset the waste ink pad counter using the resetter tool.
✅ Contact Epson support if the issue persists.

 

By following these steps, you should be able to fix Error 0x97 and get your Epson printer working again.

Would you like a guide specific to your Epson printer model? 😊