Canon imagePROGRAF Hardware Error 03130031-2F48

Canon imagePROGRAF iPF Hardware Error 03130031-2F48

Hardware error 03130031-2F48 gets lumped in with the 2F492F50, and 2F51 error codes because they all pertain to the print head (or heads, depending on model).  No need to stress, they're all common errors and can be easily fixed.  There is definitely a level of stress when the printer quits working and has nothing more to say than "here's a few random numbers, good luck".  But fear not, we're here to help!

What is hardware error 03130031-2F48?

Specifically, the 2F48 is a VHT (heater drive power supply for printhead).  It means the VHT has gone outside of its normal operating range.

Please note,  some Canon iPF printers use 2 print heads.  In cases where a two print head model only requires a single print head to be replaced, Canon recommends changing both.  It is a little more costly to replace both print heads simultaneously, but the manufacturer has recommended best practices for a reason.  That reason is to prevent future issues (which always wastes ink and maintenance cartridge capacity, costing you more money in the long run).

We've got a coupon that can be applied if you buy both at the same time.  Get it below by filling in the form below.

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Easily Search For Individual Error Codes Using The Search Field Above.  Contact Us If you are Having Difficulty Finding Your Code.

Can I Fix The Error

Sure can! And what's even better is, it may not cost you anything at all!  We always start any troubleshoot with a reboot.  That's it for the first step.  Turn the printer off, leave it off for about 30 minutes to an hour, and turn it back on.  If the error clears, do a happy dance (and give us an outstanding review on Google and Facebook).

If the error persists after the power cycle, be sure the printer has the most recent version of the firmware. If neither of those actions remedies the situation, the last thing to eliminate is the possibility of a false error code which can be caused by air in the ink lines (see the image below for comparison).

If the error code is still present after the previous steps, mentally prepare yourself to spend some money.

The False Error

As mentioned in the section above, it's possible to have a false error.

Filled Ink LinesPictured here are properly filled ink lines.  This is how it should look when the situation is normal and the lines are full.  If the ink tubes are not solid colors (like the image) your printer cannot sense it.  When the print head doesn't deliver ink from the nozzles associated with the color ink that has air in the lines, the printer assumes something is wrong with the print head, and you get an error code.

To eliminate this possibility from your scenario, open the top cover (lid), and visually inspect the ink lines.  If any air is present in the lines, it will be quite easy to spot.  You will see gaps in the ink supply.  They will be very obvious, even to the untrained eye (don't worry, you'll know it when you see it)

If you see any air in the ink lines, you'll need to perform a system fill of the ink lines, or a manual fill using a syringe.  In many cases, removing the air from the lines can be the solution to the problem.

If you do not see air in the ink lines, the appropriate next step is to replace the print head (or heads).  For your convenience, they are available below.

Search Print Head Models

If you are unsure of which print head your printer model requires, please check the spec sheet or the brochure.

What If Print Head Replacement Doesn't Work

If a print head replacement (1 or 2) doesn't resolve the 2F48 error code, it is possible you'll need to replace the main controller, and possibly even more.  Repair costs have the potential to exceed the price of a new printer depending on the time of year and current promotions, so we recommend contacting Canon tech support to discuss possible options BEFORE you start making decisions.  That simple call can save you a ton of time, money, and headaches.

Final Notes

To recap, repairs for this error can be as simple as a reboot or firmware update, but they can extend well beyond replacing PCB boards, and flat cables.  Be mindful too that any repairs have the ability to deplete ink supply and maintenance cartridge capacity, which will add to the total repair bill.

Before making the decision to repair an older printer, consider compatibility with newer computers and operating systems.  Few things are more frustrating than spending a bunch of money to repair a printer only to find out it's not compatible with a new computer you buy 6 months from now.

There are some scenarios where replacing the printer is a more financially responsible decision.

Related Error Codes

As previously mentioned, the 2F492F50, and 2F51 error codes are all similar and also apply to print heads.  Explore the related codes if need be.

2F48 isn't my error code!

If 2F48 is not the error code displayed on your screen, please see our blog post that lists all the possible 03133310 error codes so you can learn more about your specific error.

Ron Rodgers

Ron Rodgers

Ron Rodgers is an Imaging Ace & Print Industry Hotshot with a passion for helping people turn print into profit! Aside from being the founder of ProPrinting Systems, he is a marketing machine, funtrepreneur (like entrepreneur but more fun), blogger, YouTuber, podcaster, musician, husband, father, sales expert, and all-around nice guy.

About Ron Rodgers

Ron Rodgers is an Imaging Ace & Print Industry Hotshot with a passion for helping people turn print into profit! Aside from being the founder of ProPrinting Systems, he is a marketing machine, funtrepreneur (like entrepreneur but more fun), blogger, YouTuber, podcaster, musician, husband, father, sales expert, and all-around nice guy.

4 Comments

  1. Olivia on at

    Hello! How do you change the printer head when the error is being displayed? The printer heads on my Canon imagePROGRAF is locked into place both when turned off and on, and I can’t access the maintenance window for it because of the error.

    • Ron Rodgers on at

      Olivia, depending on the model, you may have a small plastic tab on the right side cover that can be popped off. If you have the tab, pop it off, insert a screwdriver, and turn until the carriage releases. If your printer does not have the tab, you will have to remove the right side cover to access the gears. You can manipulate the gears manually to release the carriage. Please call us if you need additional guidance.

  2. Karen on at

    Hi! I have a Canon image Prograf iPF670 that was displaying a printhead error. We replaced the printhead but the error is still there . I cannot access the maintenance window because of the error.

  3. Karen on at

    Hi! I have a Canon image Prograf iPF670 that was displaying a printhead error. We replaced the printhead but the error is still there . I cannot access the maintenance window because of the error. It is not recognizing that the printhead has been replaced.

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