How to Change Ink in Canon Printer: Pixma, MG, and Other Models

 

Canon Printer Ink Replacement for All Models 


Changing ink cartridges in Canon printers isn’t difficult, but the specific steps can vary depending on your printer model. Be it Canon Pixma, MG series, or other Canon printer models, the correct procedure ensures optimal print quality. It also prevents potential damage to your device. This comprehensive post covers everything you need to know about how to change ink in Canon printer

When to Replace Ink in a Canon Printer?

A warning message on the printer’s display or a decreased print quality are signs of low ink. However, do not take the ‘low ink’ warning seriously. Usually, it means that there is still ink, but it won’t last for extended printing. The most accurate reminder is when your Canon printer shows an empty cartridge. A nozzle check that shows poor print quality is also an indicator of low ink and the need to replace it.

How to Change Ink in Canon Printer?

To change ink, turn on the printer and open its cover to see the ink cartridges. Wait for the cartridges to move to the replacement position. After that, press the cartridge down to release it. Remove the old cartridge and put in a new one into its correct slot. Remember that color cartridges go to the left and black cartridges go rightward.

Canon Pixma Printer Ink Replacement

Canon Pixma printer models utilize a range of cartridges tailored to specific models. These include Canon PG-540/CL-541, Canon PGI-550/CLI-551 and Canon PGI-570/CLI-571. To replace these cartridges, follow these general steps:

  • Open the front cover. Most Pixma models have a front door or cover that lifts easily. 

  • Allow the cartridge holder to move to the center position and let it stop completely.

  • Remove old cartridges. Push down the blue retainer or lock lever until it clicks.

  • Slide out the empty cartridge carefully.

  • Install a new cartridge by inserting it at a slight angle with the contacts facing forward and the printhead pointing down.

  • Push up the retainer until you hear a click. It means that the cartridge has been secured in place.

  • Close all covers on the printer. 

  • The printer will initialize the new cartridge

  • Check the printer’s display panel for confirmation. A 0 icon with no flashing lights will appear. 

  • It means that you have correctly installed the ink cartridges. 

Canon PIXMA TS Series Ink Cartridge Replacement

The Canon PIXMA TS series is compatible with Canon FINE cartridges, like PG-245 (Black), CL-246 (Color), and PG-245XL / CL-246XL (High Yield). Here’s a stepwise process to replace ink when it is low.

  • Turn on the printer.

  • Lift the front cover. Don’t leave it open for over 10 minutes.

  • Push down on the empty cartridge until it clicks, then pull it out towards you.

  • Unbox the new cartridge and remove the protective tape from it.

  • Insert the new cartridge at a slant into the cartridge holder and push it up.

  • Lower the Front Cover to its original position. 

  • The printer will make a sound as the cartridges go back to their resting position.

  • After replacing the FINE cartridge, align the print head.

NOTE: Use the FINE cartridge within six months of its first use. Otherwise, it will clog the nozzles.

How to Replace Ink Cartridge in Canon MG Series Printers?

Canon MG Series uses Canon PG-545/CL-546 ink cartridges. The typical capacity of black and colour inks is 180 pages, after which you must replace them. Here’s how this process works:

  • Power on the printer.

  • Open the front cover and lower the paper output tray. 

  • Lift the paper output cover. The carriage will slide to the middle, and the small head cover opens by itself. 

  • Push down the lock lever on the empty cartridge.

  • Now, pull the cartridge out without forcing it.

  • Unbox the new cartridge and gently remove the orange tape. 

  • Do not touch the copper contacts or the print-head nozzles. 

  • Color goes on the left, and black goes on the right. 

  • Slide the cartridge straight in until it seats at the back. 

  • Push the lock lever up until it clicks to secure the cartridge. 

  • Repeat for the other one if needed. 

  • Close the paper output cover and front cover. 

  • The printer will run a short auto clean. Let it finish. 

  • If prints look misaligned, run Print Head Alignment from the driver/Canon PRINT app. 

Post-Installation Steps to Follow

After replacing cartridges in any Canon printer, you must do the following:


  • Allow automatic printhead cleaning to complete without interruption.

  • Print a test page to verify proper installation and alignment.

  • Check for error messages and resolve any issues.

  • Perform printhead alignment if prints appear misaligned.

Concluding Words 

We have covered the steps for Canon printer ink replacement for all the models, so you can use this article as your go-to resource. It’ll ensure high-quality printing performance across Pixma, MG, and other Canon printer series. However, don’t feel bad if you aren’t able to change the ink by yourself. Contact printer support and benefit from their reliable guidance. 

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. How do I find which Canon ink cartridge goes where?

Color cartridges always go on the left side, and black cartridges go on the right side. Check your printer's display screen, which often shows cartridge positions during replacement.

  1. What happens if I don't remove the orange tape from Canon cartridges?

You must remove protective orange tape from new Canon cartridges before installation as it covers the printhead nozzles and electrical contacts. Leaving it on will dry the ink and will result in error messages and blank pages getting printed.

  1. Why is my Canon printer not recognizing the new ink cartridge?

Canon printers may not recognize new cartridges if you’ve not removed the protective tape. Also, if the cartridge is not properly seated or it is non-genuine, the printer will not detect it. Make sure that the cartridge clicks securely. Verify all orange protective tape is removed, and clean the cartridge contacts gently. Finally, restart the printer.

  1. Can I replace Canon ink cartridges while the printer is off?

No, always keep your Canon printer powered on when replacing cartridges. The printer needs to be on to move the cartridge holder to the accessible center position - this is called the "cartridge replacement position." When powered off, the printhead assembly parks in a position that makes cartridge access impossible or risks damaging internal components.


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