Epson Error 0x97: Hardware Failure — Causes & Fix

0x97 is one of the most common and most serious Epson error codes. Unlike a paper jam or low-ink warning, it points to an internal hardware failure rather than something you set wrong. Epson does not publish a per-code article for it and generally treats it as a service issue: a power cycle sometimes clears a transient glitch, but a persistent 0x97 usually means a failed mainboard or print head.

• The printer suddenly stops and displays error code 0x97
• It may power off or refuse to print at all
• The error returns immediately after restarting
• No paper jam or ink problem is visible

1. 1

   Power-cycle the printer

   10 minutes

   1. Turn the printer off and unplug it from power. 2. Disconnect USB/network cables and, on cartridge models, remove the cartridges. 3. Hold the power button for about 60 seconds to discharge residual power. 4. Reconnect everything and power on to see whether the fault was transient.

2. 2

   Check for obstructions and reinstall the driver

   1. Open the printer and check for jammed paper or debris blocking the carriage. 2. Make sure the carriage can move freely by hand (with power off). 3. Update or reinstall the printer driver from Epson’s official website.

3. 3

   Contact Epson support or weigh replacement

   1. If 0x97 persists, it usually indicates failed internal hardware. 2. Contact Epson Support for service options. 3. On budget models, replacement is often more economical than repair.

• Epson — official product support (epson.com/support)