A Canon printer won’t turn on can be frustrating, especially when you need to print important documents urgently. Whether the power button does nothing, the printer shows no lights, or it suddenly stopped working, this issue is more common than you might think. The good news is that most causes are simple and can be fixed at home without professional repair.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explain why your Canon printer won’t turn on, cover step-by-step troubleshooting methods, and help you decide when it’s time to contact Canon support.
Common Reasons Why a Canon Printer Won’t Turn On
Before jumping into solutions, it’s important to understand what may be causing the problem. A Canon printer may fail to power on due to one or more of the following reasons:
Faulty power cable or adapter
Loose or damaged power outlet
Power surge or electrical fluctuation
Internal hardware malfunction
Overheating issues
Defective power button
Firmware or motherboard failure
Identifying the root cause will help you apply the correct fix and avoid unnecessary expenses.
Basic Checks to Perform First
- Check the Power Cable and Adapter
Start with the simplest step. Ensure the power cord is firmly plugged into both the printer and the wall outlet. If you’re using a power adapter, inspect it for visible damage such as fraying or burns.
Tip: Try using a different compatible power cable if available.
- Test the Wall Outlet
Sometimes the problem isn’t the printer at all. Plug another electronic device (like a phone charger or lamp) into the same outlet to confirm it’s working.
If the outlet doesn’t supply power:
Switch to a different wall socket
Avoid extension cords temporarily
Plug directly into the wall
- Remove Power Surge Protectors
While surge protectors are useful, they can sometimes block power to printers. Plug your Canon printer directly into the wall to eliminate this possibility.
Advanced Troubleshooting Steps
- Perform a Power Reset
A power reset clears residual electricity and can resolve minor electrical glitches.
Steps to power reset your Canon printer:
Turn off the printer (if possible)
Unplug the power cable from the printer and wall outlet
Wait for 10–15 minutes
Plug the cable back in
Press and hold the power button for 10 seconds
If the printer powers on after this, the issue was likely due to a temporary electrical fault.
- Check for Overheating
If your Canon printer was used heavily before it stopped working, it might have overheated. Most printers have built-in safety mechanisms that shut them down when they get too hot.
What to do:
Turn off the printer
Unplug it from the power source
Let it cool for at least 30–60 minutes
Try turning it back on
- Inspect the Power Button
In some cases, the power button itself may be faulty or stuck.
Press the button firmly, not gently
Check for dust or debris around the button
If it feels loose or unresponsive, internal repair may be required
Unfortunately, a damaged power button usually requires professional servicing.
Model-Specific Issues with Canon Printers
Different Canon printer models may experience unique power issues.
Canon PIXMA Printer Won’t Turn On
PIXMA printers are sensitive to power fluctuations. A power surge can damage internal components like the power supply board.
Solution:
Perform a full power reset
Use a stable power outlet
If no lights appear, internal repair may be needed
Canon MG, TS, or MX Series Not Powering On
These models often fail to turn on due to:
Faulty AC adapter
Damaged internal power board
Try replacing the power adapter with an original Canon replacement if possible.
Canon Inkjet Printer Won’t Turn On After Cartridge Change
Sometimes, incorrectly installed ink cartridges can prevent the printer from powering up.
Fix:
Remove all cartridges
Reinstall them properly
Ensure no protective tape is left on the cartridges
Close all covers securely
Signs of Internal Hardware Failure
If your Canon printer still won’t turn on after trying all basic and advanced steps, internal hardware issues may be the cause.
Common signs include:
No lights or sound at all
Burning smell from the printer
Printer stopped working after a power surge
Printer turns off immediately after powering on
In these cases, the power supply board or motherboard may be damaged.
Can a Firmware Issue Cause a Canon Printer Not to Turn On?
While rare, firmware corruption can cause startup issues, especially if:
The printer lost power during an update
Firmware installation was interrupted
Unfortunately, firmware issues usually cannot be fixed if the printer won’t power on at all. Canon support may be required to reflash or replace internal components.
When to Contact Canon Support
You should contact Canon customer support if:
The printer is under warranty
None of the troubleshooting steps worked
You suspect motherboard or power supply damage
The printer won’t turn on after a power surge
Canon technicians can diagnose whether repair or replacement is the best option.
Is It Worth Repairing a Canon Printer That Won’t Turn On?
Whether repair is worth it depends on:
Printer age
Repair cost
Warranty status
Model type
For older printers, repair costs may exceed the price of a new model. In such cases, replacement may be more economical.
How to Prevent Canon Printer Power Issues in the Future
To avoid facing the “Canon printer won’t turn on” issue again, follow these preventive tips:
Use a reliable surge protector
Avoid frequent power on/off cycles
Keep the printer in a well-ventilated area
Clean dust from vents regularly
Use original Canon power accessories
Proper care significantly extends your printer’s lifespan.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why is my Canon printer completely dead?
This usually happens due to power supply failure, damaged power cable, or internal board issues.
Can I fix a Canon printer that won’t turn on at home?
Yes, many power issues can be fixed with basic troubleshooting like power reset and cable checks.
Does Canon provide free repair for power issues?
If the printer is under warranty, Canon may offer free repair or replacement.
Final Thoughts
A canon printer wont turn on can disrupt your work, but in many cases, the solution is simple. By checking the power source, performing a reset, and identifying potential hardware issues, you can often resolve the problem without professional help.
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