The “Ink Absorber Full” / service required message on Canon MG8170 is common after many cleaning cycles. In most cases, a counter reset restores printing.

Inside Canon printers, absorber pads collect excess ink from cleaning and maintenance cycles. The printer uses an internal counter to estimate pad saturation.

This page is prepared for Canon MG8170. Service mode instructions are shown only when a matching series procedure is known.

Typical Signs

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

How to Enter Service Mode on Canon MG8170

If your Canon MG8170 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

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

Important Notes

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

Reset tools and instructions

If your model does not show a service mode section, it means no matching procedure was found for its series.

If It Doesn’t Work

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

Frequently Asked Questions