The “Ink Absorber Full” / service required message on Canon MB5180 is common after many cleaning cycles. In most cases, a counter reset restores printing.

Ink absorber pads store waste ink during normal operation. Canon firmware tracks this using a software counter and may stop printing when it reaches the limit.

This page is prepared for Canon MB5180. Service mode instructions are shown only when a matching series procedure is known.

Common Symptoms

• ‘Ink Absorber Full’ / ‘Service Required’ message
• Support/service code (varies by series)
• Printing blocked after cleaning cycles
• Reset required to continue printing

Reset the Ink Absorber Counter

Completing the reset clears the internal ink absorber counter stored in printer memory and restores normal operation.

Warnings

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

Download & get started

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

If It Doesn’t Work

• Power-cycle the printer and try again.
• Repeat the service mode steps carefully (timing matters).
• Close other Canon printer utilities while resetting.
• Try a different USB cable/port if using PC software.
• Use the correct Stop/Reset press count for your series.

Frequently Asked Questions