When Canon MG6850 triggers an ink absorber full condition, the printer may block printing as a protective measure. The solution is typically a waste ink counter reset.

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 MG6850. 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 MG6850

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 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

Once the counter is cleared, Canon MG6850 should exit the locked state and printing should resume normally.

Warnings

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

Download & get started

For best results, avoid rushing button presses—consistent timing matters.

Common Fixes

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

Frequently Asked Questions