The “Ink Absorber Full” / service required message on Canon MX420 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 MX420. Service mode instructions are shown only when a matching series procedure is known.

How the Error Appears

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

Finalize the Reset and Restore Printing

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

Maintenance Reminder

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

Reset tools and instructions

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

Common Fixes

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

Frequently Asked Questions