Canon Ink Absorber Full Error and Permanent Reset Solution

What Is the “Ink Absorber Full” (5B00) Error in Canon Printers?

Inside Canon Pixma and G Series (MegaTank) inkjet printers, a high-density porous sponge assembly known as the Waste Ink Absorber Pad (Atık Mürekkep Pedi) collects purged ink discharged during nozzle cleanings and heavy print volumes.

Over extended use, the printer firmware calculates cumulative ink waste volume. To prevent overflowing ink from leaking onto external surfaces, pooling inside the mechanism, or causing mainboard electrical shorts, the printer activates a protective lockout. When this happens, an “Ink Absorber Is Full” (Error Code 5B00 or 1700) notification halts all printing operations.

Notice: ProTech Bilgisayar is an authorized sales point for Canon printers and genuine supplies, and an independent specialized repair center.

What Should You Do When Receiving the “Absorber Full” Alert?

When this error appears for the very first time, the physical felt pads might not yet be completely saturated; the firmware software counter has simply reached its mathematical threshold. However, by the second or third lifecycle warning, physical sponge replacement or waste ink rerouting becomes mandatory to prevent leaks.

A permanent, reliable solution requires both software counter reset and physical hardware maintenance:

1. Software Solution: Waste Counter Reset

To restore printing functionality, the internal digital waste counter stored in EEPROM must be cleared to 0%. Pirated or cracked reset utilities found online frequently corrupt mainboard firmware.

Warning: Canon printers must enter “Service Mode” prior to running software reset commands. Attempting external reset tools without proper Service Mode handshake corrupts the EEPROM code. Resetting via licensed service utilities at a qualified workshop is the safest procedure.

2. Hardware Solution: Physical Pad Cleaning or Replacement

Clearing the counter digitally only hides the issue temporarily if the physical sponges are saturated. Trapped ink will eventually overflow and damage internal electronics. At ProTech Bilgisayar, we open the machine, thoroughly clean the reservoir, and install 100% compatible replacement felt pads.

Manual Service Mode Reset on Canon G-Series Printers (Alternative Method)

On certain Canon MegaTank (G-Series) models, you can enter Service Mode and clear the counter via specific button sequences without purchasing external software reset keys.

(Note: Ensure your printer has not previously suffered EEPROM corruption. The user assumes all responsibility when executing this sequence.)

1. Connect the power cord and place a blank A4 sheet into the rear paper tray.
2. With the printer completely powered off, press and hold down the “Stop/Reset” (Red Triangle) button.
3. While continuing to hold Stop, press and hold down the “Power” button (both buttons held simultaneously).
4. Release the Stop button while continuing to hold the Power button firmly.
5. While still holding Power, press the Stop button consecutively 5 times (on select models, 6 times).
6. Release the Power button completely.
7. If the printer enters Service Mode successfully, the green power LED will stop flashing and remain steady lit.
8. Once the green LED is solid, press the Stop (Red Triangle) button 5 times.
9. Finally, press the Power button once.
10. If the sequence was executed accurately, the printer will print a diagnostic page containing “d=000.0” or D=000.
11. Receiving this test sheet confirms the internal counter has been successfully cleared to zero. Turn the printer off normally and power it back on.

Antalya Canon Printer Service Support: ProTech Bilgisayar

Button sequences do not function on all models, and units with “Service Mode Lock” require mainboard-level diagnostics. To avoid bricking your machine’s controller through improper key attempts, we recommend professional assistance.

At ProTech Bilgisayar Antalya Printer Service:

• We reset waste counters across Canon G-series and Pixma printers using official licensed software.
• We disassemble the chassis to inspect, clean, and replace saturated waste ink sponge arrays.
• We perform comprehensive printhead nozzle checks and test prints before returning your printer.

If your machine displays the “Absorber Full” error, contact our specialists immediately.

📞 Direct Support Line: 0850 220 4323
📱 Contact via WhatsApp: 0533 053 45 41
📍 Altındağ Mah. 100. Yıl Bulv. Arthun Apt. Muratpaşa / Antalya

ProTech Bilgisayar — Antalya’s Trusted Canon Printer Repair and Service Center.