Epson printer message: "You need to replace Ink Cartridge(s)."
Quick answer
One or more ink cartridges are fully expended and printing cannot continue until replaced.
Before you try the solution
- 1. Copy the complete message exactly as shown, including any code, letters, or punctuation the panel puts around it.
- 2. Find the printer's exact model number. The same-looking code can mean something different on another model family.
- 3. Let the current print, scan, or update operation stop before touching controls, paper paths, or covers.
Manufacturer-documented solution
One or more ink cartridges are fully expended and printing cannot continue until replaced.
Model scope: Epson's troubleshooting documentation for your exact model
If the error is still there
- 1Return to the screen or job that produced the message and check whether the code has cleared.
- 2If "You need to replace Ink Cartridge(s)." returns, do not repeat a risky procedure. Record when it appears and check the documentation for the exact model.
- 3If the documented action does not clear "You need to replace Ink Cartridge(s).", contact Epson support or a qualified printer technician with the model number and complete message.
Other Epson error codes
- You cannot use AirPrint if Paper Setup Auto Display is disabled.AirPrint requires the printer's Paper Setup Auto Display feature to be turned on; with it off, AirPrint jobs will not function until the setting is re-enabled.
- An error occurred while saving. Check and if necessary, change the memory device.The printer could not write scanned or stored data to the inserted external storage device, which may be damaged, full, or unsupported. The user should inspect or swap the memory device.
- An ink cartridge is installed incorrectly.One or more cartridges are not fully seated in their bays. The user must press down firmly on each cartridge to ensure a proper connection.
- A printer's ink pad is nearing the end of its service lifeThe internal ink pads are close to saturation. Printing continues, and the message repeats until the pads are replaced. Epson directs owners to Epson support rather than describing a user replacement.
- Authentication error. Check the authentication method, authenticated account, and authenticated passwordThe printer's login credentials for the destination shared folder were rejected. Epson directs the user to re-enter the correct username/password, confirm the password hasn't expired, and verify Location settings.
- Cannot recognize the media. See your documentation for more details about the media.An inserted memory card or storage device does not meet the printer's supported specifications and cannot be read. The user should confirm the device type/format is supported.
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Manufacturer reference
The meaning and documented action above were taken from the manufacturer source below.
Product Status MessagesVerified against manufacturer documentation, last checked 2026-08-13. PrintDiag has no printers and no technician, so nothing here is claimed as tested on hardware.