Canon 5B00 Reset — Safe Steps to Clear Ink Absorber Error (2025)

canon 5b00 reset is the exact fix when your Canon PIXMA shows “Support Code 5B00 / Ink Absorber Full.” Use our canon 5b00 reset walkthrough to clear the error safely, understand what it means, and keep your printer running without messy surprises.

canon 5b00 reset — what the error means

The printer tracks how much waste ink gets flushed during cleanings and startup cycles. When the counter reaches a threshold, the device locks with 5B00 to prevent overflow. Two things matter:

• The software counter (what we’ll reset).

• The physical absorber pads (sponges inside). If they’re truly saturated, consider replacing or cleaning them to avoid leaks.

canon 5b00 reset — quick checks before service mode

• Power off the printer and unplug for 60 seconds.

• Ensure paper is loaded and there’s no jam.

• If you recently refilled cartridges, wipe any drips and reseat them.

• Place the printer on newspaper or a mat in case of residual ink.

canon 5b00 reset — service mode entry (typical buttons)

Button names vary slightly by series, but the logic is similar on many PIXMA models (e.g., G- and MG-series):

1. Power off the printer.

2. Hold Stop/Reset (triangle-in-circle).

3. While holding Stop/Reset, press and hold Power.

4. Keep Power pressed; release Stop/Reset, then press it 5 times (some models use 5, others 6).

5. Release Power. The printer should enter Service Mode (screen may be blank or show “0”).

If your model behaves differently, repeat with 5/6 presses or slower timing. Consistent timing is key.

canon 5b00 reset — Method A: button-only counter clear

In Service Mode:

1. Press the Stop/Reset button the number of times that selects Waste Ink Counter (varies by model).

2. Confirm with Power to perform the reset/initialization.

3. Power off, then power on normally.

4. Print a Test Page to verify the error is gone.

canon 5b00 reset — Method B: Service Tool via USB (advanced)

On serviceable models:

1. Connect the printer to a Windows PC via USB in Service Mode.

2. Launch the appropriate Service Tool for your series.

3. Select Main / Platen / Waste Ink counter reset (naming varies).

4. Execute, wait for completion, then power cycle the printer.

Use only a tool version that matches your model family. If an operation is disabled, don’t force it—return to Method A or consult model-specific notes.

canon 5b00 reset — safety notes

• Resetting the counter without addressing soaked pads can cause leakage.

• If prints show smears under the page, schedule a pad replacement/cleaning.

• Wear gloves; waste ink stains are persistent.

canon 5b00 reset — aftercare & absorber options

If you print heavily, consider:

• Pad replacement: swap the absorber kit if available for your model.

• Deep clean: rinse pads with warm water until clear, dry thoroughly (24–48h), then reinstall. Only if your model allows easy pad access.

• External waste tank mod (pro-level): route the waste tube to a sealed bottle. This reduces future pad saturation but requires careful, clean installation.

canon 5b00 reset — testing and verification

1. After the reset, power on and wait until Ready.

2. Print a Nozzle Check; ensure lines are complete.

3. Run a Head Cleaning only if necessary—avoid excessive cleanings that refill the waste absorber quickly.

4. Keep a record of the date you reset; it helps predict maintenance windows.

canon 5b00 reset — tips to slow down waste ink

• Print at least one page weekly to reduce aggressive priming cycles.

• Avoid frequent power cycling; each startup can add waste.

• Use quality cartridges/ink to minimize head cleanings.

• Keep firmware stable; only update when you need a specific fix.

FAQs

Q1. Is canon 5b00 reset safe?
Yes—when combined with checking/servicing the pads. The reset clears the counter; the pads prevent overflow.

Q2. Which models show 5B00?
Many PIXMA inkjets (G, MG, TS, TR families). Steps are similar, but button counts/timing can vary.

Q3. Do I have to replace absorber pads every time?
Not always. Light users can reset and monitor. Heavy users should replace or deep-clean pads to avoid leaks.

Q4. The tool won’t let me reset—what now?
Try the button-only method, confirm proper Service Mode, or use a version of the tool matching your model family.

Q5. I still get 5B00 after reset. Why?
Wrong service sequence, incomplete operation, or pads truly saturated. Re-enter Service Mode and repeat, then inspect pads.

Advanced Diagnostics (for workshops/IT)

• Service prints: Keep a binder with nozzle checks and supply status after each reset.

• Leak watch: Place a white tissue beneath the printer for 24h; any new stains indicate pad saturation.

• Throughput planning: For bulk jobs, schedule printing in fewer long sessions rather than many small starts to reduce priming cycles.

• Spare absorber kit: If your model is common in your shop, stock one kit and note its part number inside your maintenance log.

canon 5b00 reset — quick checklist

• Enter Service Mode correctly

• Run counter reset (button or tool)

• Power cycle and test print

• Inspect/clean or replace pads if needed

• Log the reset date and usage

Conclusion

Performing a canon 5b00 reset restores normal operation fast, but the real fix is balance: reset the software counter, confirm absorber health, and adopt habits that reduce waste ink. With controlled cleanings and occasional pad service, most PIXMA printers stay stable for the long haul.