How to Troubleshoot Brother Printer Error E51 Effectively?

If you own a Brother printer, you may have encountered various error codes over time. One of the common ones is the Brother Printer Error E51. This error typically occurs when the printer has a mechanical malfunction, often involving the print head or the internal components that assist in the printer's operation. While it might seem daunting at first, troubleshooting the Brother printer error E51 is simpler than you might think. This blog will guide you through the necessary steps to fix this error and get your printer back to working order.

What is Brother Printer Error E51?

Error E51 on a Brother printer usually indicates a problem with the machine’s print head or other internal mechanisms. When the printer detects a mechanical issue or misalignment in the print head, it triggers this error to prevent further damage. This issue often occurs after an ink cartridge replacement, a paper jam, or if the printer has been moved.

Step-by-Step Guide to Troubleshoot Brother Printer Error E51

Let’s dive into the troubleshooting process. These steps will help you resolve error E51 on your Brother printer effectively.

1. Turn Off and On the Printer

Sometimes, a simple power cycle can resolve temporary issues with the printer. To do this:

• Turn off the printer by pressing the power button.
• Unplug the printer from the power socket for at least 30 seconds.
• Plug the printer back in and turn it on.

After the printer powers up, check if the E51 error has cleared. If it hasn't, continue with the following steps.

2. Check for Paper Jams

Paper jams are one of the most common causes of error codes on printers, including the Brother printer error E51. To resolve this, follow these steps:

• Open the printer's cover or access panel where you can see the ink cartridges and print head.
• Carefully remove any jammed paper from the paper feed tray or any area within the printer. Be gentle to avoid tearing the paper.
• If the paper jam is located inside the printer mechanism, gently pull the paper out, making sure you don’t leave any fragments behind.

Once the jam is cleared, try printing again. If the error persists, move to the next step.

3. Inspect the Ink Cartridges

Improperly installed or faulty ink cartridges can also trigger an error code like E51. To troubleshoot this, do the following:

• Turn off the printer and remove the ink cartridges from their slots.
• Check if the cartridges are installed properly. They should click into place without any resistance.
• Inspect the cartridges for any damage or leaks. If you notice any issues, replace the faulty ink cartridge with a new one.
• Reinstall the cartridges carefully, ensuring they are placed properly in their respective slots.

After reinstalling the cartridges, turn on the printer again and check if the E51 error still appears.

4. Check the Printer’s Print Head Mechanism

The print head plays a vital role in the functioning of your Brother printer, and if it becomes misaligned, it could trigger the E51 error. Follow these steps to troubleshoot:

• Turn off the printer and unplug it.
• Open the printer cover to access the print head.
• Manually move the print head (if it's not locked) to ensure it moves freely.
• If the print head is stuck or jammed, gently try to dislodge it. Be careful not to use excessive force, as this could damage the printer.
• Once the print head is clear, check for any obstructions or debris inside the printer. If necessary, clean the print head with a soft cloth, avoiding any direct contact with the electrical components.

After making sure the print head is clear and moving freely, plug the printer back in and turn it on to see if the issue is resolved.

5. Reset the Printer

If the previous steps didn’t resolve the issue, performing a factory reset might help. A reset will return the printer to its default settings, which can clear any software issues causing the E51 error.

To reset the Brother printer, follow these steps:

• Press the “Menu” button on the printer.
• Use the arrow keys to navigate to the "Initial Setup" or "Reset" option.
• Select “Reset” and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.

Once the reset is complete, check if the error has been resolved.

6. Update or Reinstall the Printer Drivers

Outdated or corrupt printer drivers can also contribute to error codes, including E51. Follow these steps to check and update your Brother printer drivers:

• Visit the Brother support website (https://allprintersetup.com/printer/brother-printer) and search for your printer model.
• Download and install the latest drivers and software for your printer.
• After installing the drivers, restart your computer and printer.

Check if the E51 error persists. In some cases, reinstalling the drivers will help resolve the issue.

7. Contact Brother Support

If none of the above methods have worked, it may be time to contact Brother customer support for further assistance. The E51 error may indicate a more serious mechanical issue that requires professional service. When contacting support, be sure to provide the following information:

• The model number of your Brother printer.
• A description of the issue.
• The troubleshooting steps you've already attempted.

Brother’s customer support team will guide you through additional troubleshooting or arrange for a repair if necessary.

Additional Tips to Prevent Error E51 in the Future

To prevent error E51 from recurring, follow these simple maintenance tips:

• Regular Cleaning: Clean your printer regularly, including the print head and internal components. Dust and debris can cause mechanical issues, leading to error codes.
• Use Quality Ink Cartridges: Always use genuine Brother ink cartridges to ensure the printer functions optimally. Third-party ink may cause clogging or damage to the printer.
• Avoid Overloading the Paper Tray: Overloading the paper tray can cause paper jams, which may lead to mechanical errors like the E51 code.
• Handle with Care: Avoid moving the printer when it’s in operation, and always handle it with care to prevent mechanical damage.

Conclusion

Brother printer error E51 can be a frustrating issue, but with the right steps, it can usually be resolved quickly. By following the troubleshooting steps above—checking for paper jams, inspecting ink cartridges, cleaning the print head, and updating printer drivers—you should be able to fix the error and restore your printer to working order.

If these solutions don’t work, don’t hesitate to contact Brother support for further assistance. With regular maintenance and care, you can keep your Brother printer running smoothly and avoid future issues.