The “Ink Absorber Full” / service required message on Canon MG6100 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 MG6100 monitors this via a counter and can lock printing at a threshold.

This page is prepared for Canon MG6100. Service mode instructions are shown only when a matching series procedure is known.

How the Error Appears

• 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 MG6100

If your Canon MG6100 supports service mode reset, follow the steps below before performing the counter 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 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.

Clear the Ink Absorber / Waste Ink Counter

After service mode is enabled (if required), the waste ink counter can be reset using a supported reset procedure/software.

Before You Continue

If absorber pads are truly saturated, ignoring maintenance can lead to ink leakage inside the printer. The counter reset only removes the software lock.

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