Canon Support Code B200 means the printer detected a printhead problem. It can be triggered by overheating, dry cartridges, dirty contacts, or a failing printhead. This is different from a paper jam or network issue, so the recovery steps focus on power, cooling, and printhead contact.
Does this affect you?
Use this guide if a Canon inkjet shows B200 and refuses to print, especially after heavy printing, low ink, or a long period of disuse.
Power cycle the printer
Try this exactly before opening the printer. It can clear temporary overheating or detection faults.
- Turn the printer off with its own power button.
- Unplug it from the wall and wait a full two minutes so the printhead can cool.
- Plug it back in and power it on.
- Watch startup to see whether B200 returns immediately or the printer completes its self-test.
Reseat and clean the printhead
Only do this if your model has a user-accessible printhead. Some Canon printers do not.
- With the printer off, open the top cover. If needed and safe for your model, gently move the carriage to the center without forcing it.
- Lift the printhead lock lever and remove the printhead straight out.
- Inspect the printhead contacts and carriage contacts for ink, dust, or residue.
- Wipe contacts gently with a dry lint-free cloth, or lightly dampen the cloth with isopropyl alcohol while avoiding nozzle openings.
- Reinsert the printhead level and fully seated, lock it down, close the cover, and power on.
More control
Empty cartridges can trigger B200
A dry cartridge can let the printhead fire without ink to cool the nozzles. Check every color cartridge, not only the one you use most.
If B200 keeps returning
A recurring B200 after a long power cycle and careful reseat usually points to printhead wear or failure. If the printhead is replaceable, compare the part price with a new printer.
Sources
- Canon Support – Support Code B200 (2025)
- Canon Support – Replacing the Print Head (2025)
- Canon Support – An Error Message Is Displayed on the Printer (2025)