Canon Printer B200 Error Code – Meaning, Causes & Fixes
The B200 error on a Canon printer is one of the most feared codes in Canon's lineup — it indicates a printhead hardware failure. It appears on PIXMA MG, MX, MP, and iP series printers and typically signals that the printhead has overheated, lost voltage, or stopped communicating with the control board. The error can sometimes be cleared with specific reset procedures, but in many cases it indicates the printhead needs replacement.
What it means
Printhead hardware failure — overheating, voltage loss, or communication fault with the control board.
Severity
HighCan you fix it yourself?
Sometimes — specific reset sequences and printhead cleaning resolve it in some cases.
Call a technician when
If reset attempts fail and the printhead needs replacement.
What Does B200 Mean?
B200 is Canon's printhead error code. The printer monitors printhead voltage and temperature continuously. If either goes outside safe operating limits, the machine halts and displays B200 to prevent physical damage to the hardware. This is most common after the printer has run many heavy print jobs, after using third-party ink that overdrives the printhead, or when the printhead is nearing end-of-life. In some cases, it is triggered by a temporary voltage spike and can be cleared. In others, the printhead itself has failed permanently.
What Causes This Error?
- Printhead overheating due to heavy print workload or blocked ventilation
- Printhead voltage fault — too high or too low for safe operation
- Third-party or refilled ink cartridges causing abnormal printhead behavior
- Dried ink severely clogging printhead nozzles and causing heat buildup
- Printhead end-of-life — typical lifespan is 50,000–100,000 pages on many PIXMA models
- Control board fault misreporting printhead status
How to Fix B200
- 1
Turn off the printer. Unplug the power cord from the back of the printer. Wait 10 minutes — not just 60 seconds — to allow the printhead to fully cool and discharge.
- 2
While unplugged, open the printer cover. Manually slide the carriage to the center of the track (away from the home position on the right). Close the cover.
- 3
Plug the printer back in. Hold the Stop/Reset button as you press Power. Hold both for 5 seconds, then release. This initiates a service reset on many PIXMA models.
- 4
If B200 clears, immediately run a deep cleaning cycle from the printer's maintenance menu and print a nozzle check page.
- 5
If B200 returns, remove the ink cartridges and gently lift the printhead out. Soak the printhead face in warm distilled water for 5–10 minutes. Pat dry and reseat it. Do not use tap water.
- 6
If B200 still appears after printhead cleaning and reseating, the printhead needs replacement. Canon PIXMA printheads are available as replacement parts for most models.
When to Call a Professional
Canon-authorized technicians can replace the printhead on PIXMA models. Printhead replacement is a legitimate DIY repair on many PIXMA series printers — compatible OEM replacement printheads are available online. However, if you are not comfortable disassembling the printer, professional service is the safer option.
Can You Still Use the Device?
No. B200 completely locks the printer. No printing, scanning, or copying will work. Repeated reset attempts without resolving the root cause can accelerate printhead wear.
See Also
Official Resources
Related Error Codes
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional repair advice. CodeExplain is not affiliated with Canon or any other brand mentioned. Always consult a qualified technician for complex repairs.