The “Ink Absorber Full” / service required message on Canon TR4521 is common after many cleaning cycles. In most cases, a counter reset restores printing.

During head cleaning, surplus ink is routed to internal absorber pads. Canon TR4521 monitors this via a counter and can lock printing at a threshold.

This page is prepared for Canon TR4521. Service mode instructions are shown only when a matching series procedure is known.

Common Symptoms

• Service / maintenance warning on the screen or driver
• Printer refuses to print even with ink available
• Blinking lights and queued jobs fail
• Error reappears after restart

How to Enter Service Mode on Canon TR4521

Some Canon series require entering service mode before the ink absorber counter can be reset.

1. Turn the printer OFF.
2. Press and hold Stop/Reset.
3. While holding Stop/Reset, press and hold Power.
4. Release Stop/Reset (keep holding Power).
5. Press Stop/Reset 5 times.
6. Release Power — the printer should enter service mode.

If it doesn’t work, repeat the sequence carefully. The press count depends on the series.

Clear the Ink Absorber / Waste Ink Counter

Once the counter is cleared, Canon TR4521 should exit the locked state and printing should resume normally.

Before You Continue

Resetting the counter does not physically clean the absorber pads. For heavy usage, pads may eventually need cleaning or replacement.

Need a reset solution?

Use a reliable USB connection and follow the steps in order.

Frequently Asked Questions