Canon MG3250 can lock printing when the waste ink (ink absorber) counter hits a predefined threshold. This guide explains how to reset it.

During head cleaning, surplus ink is routed to internal absorber pads. Canon MG3250 monitors this via a counter and can lock printing at a threshold.

This page is prepared for Canon MG3250. Service mode instructions are shown only when a matching series procedure is known.

Typical Signs

• 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 MG3250

To access maintenance functions, Canon MG3250 may need to be placed in service mode first.

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 6 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.

Reset the Ink Absorber Counter

Once the counter is cleared, Canon MG3250 should exit the locked state and printing should resume normally.

Before You Continue

Treat the reset as a maintenance step. If your printer has extremely high usage, consider cleaning/replacing absorber pads to avoid overflow.

Need a reset solution?

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

Troubleshooting

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