Is your Canon printer not turning on no matter what you try? This can be frustrating, especially when you need to print important documents. The issue might be due to power problems, faulty cables, hardware malfunctions, or internal errors.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through step-by-step troubleshooting to identify and fix the problem.
Why Won’t My Canon Printer Turn On? Common Causes
Before jumping to fixes, let’s look at the possible reasons why your Canon printer won’t power on:
✔️ Power Cable Issues – The power cable may be loose, damaged, or unplugged.
✔️ Faulty Power Outlet – The wall socket may not be working.
✔️ Overheated Printer – If the printer overheats, it may shut down temporarily.
✔️ Power Supply Failure – The printer’s power adapter may be faulty.
✔️ Hardware Malfunction – A damaged internal component can prevent the printer from turning on.
✔️ Firmware or Software Glitch – Internal software errors can cause startup failure.
Step-by-Step Fixes for a Canon Printer That Won’t Turn On
Step 1: Check the Power Source
Before assuming a major issue, make sure your power source is working:
1️⃣ Unplug the printer from the power outlet.
2️⃣ Plug another device (like a lamp or phone charger) into the same outlet to see if it works.
3️⃣ If the outlet isn’t working, try plugging the printer into a different wall socket.
4️⃣ If using a power strip or surge protector, plug the printer directly into the wall.
✅ If your printer still won’t turn on, move to the next step.
Step 2: Inspect the Power Cable and Adapter
A damaged power cable can prevent your printer from receiving electricity.
1️⃣ Check if the power cable is securely connected to both the printer and the outlet.
2️⃣ Look for any visible damage (frayed or broken wires).
3️⃣ Try using a different compatible power cable if available.
4️⃣ If your printer has an external power adapter, inspect it for signs of damage.
✅ If the power cable and adapter are fine but the printer still won’t turn on, continue troubleshooting.
Step 3: Perform a Power Reset
A power reset can fix minor electrical issues.
1️⃣ Turn off the printer (if possible) and unplug it from the wall.
2️⃣ Disconnect any USB cables or other connections.
3️⃣ Wait for 5-10 minutes to allow the printer to discharge.
4️⃣ Press and hold the Power button for 30 seconds.
5️⃣ Plug the printer back in and press the Power button again.
✅ If this reset works, your printer should power on normally. If not, try the next step.
Step 4: Check for Overheating Issues
If your printer was running for an extended period, it might have overheated.
1️⃣ Feel the printer’s surface—if it’s hot, let it cool down for 15-30 minutes.
2️⃣ Once cooled, try turning it on again.
3️⃣ Make sure the ventilation areas are not blocked.
✅ If overheating was the issue, your printer should now power on.
Step 5: Remove and Reinsert the Printer Battery (For Battery-Powered Models)
Some portable Canon printers, like the Canon PIXMA TR150, use an internal battery.
1️⃣ Remove the battery from the back of the printer.
2️⃣ Wait for 5 minutes before reinserting it.
3️⃣ Plug the printer into a power source and turn it on.
✅ If your printer powers on, the issue was likely a battery connection problem.
Step 6: Check the Printer’s Internal Components
A damaged motherboard or power button can prevent the printer from turning on.
1️⃣ Press the Power button firmly and check if it feels loose or stuck.
2️⃣ If the printer was dropped or exposed to liquid, internal damage could be the issue.
3️⃣ If you hear clicking or buzzing sounds but the printer doesn’t turn on, it may need professional repair.
✅ If none of these fixes work, proceed to software troubleshooting.
Step 7: Update or Reinstall Canon Printer Firmware (For Software Issues)
Some Canon printers may fail to turn on due to firmware errors.
📌 Try updating the firmware if your printer was working before but stopped turning on after a failed update.
1️⃣ Go to Canon’s official support website.
2️⃣ Enter your printer model in the search bar.
3️⃣ Download the latest firmware update.
4️⃣ Follow Canon’s instructions to install it on your printer.
✅ If the firmware update resolves the issue, your printer should turn on normally.
Step 8: Contact Canon Support or Service Center
If your printer still won’t turn on, it may have a hardware failure that requires professional repair.
1️⃣ Visit Canon’s official website and go to the Support section.
2️⃣ Look for warranty details to check if your printer is covered for repairs.
3️⃣ Contact Canon customer service to schedule a repair.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Why is my Canon printer completely unresponsive?
✔️ The power cable or outlet may be faulty.
✔️ The printer may be overheated and needs time to cool.
✔️ There could be a hardware failure in the power supply or motherboard.
Q2: How do I reset my Canon printer if it won’t turn on?
- Unplug the printer.
- Hold the Power button for 30 seconds.
- Plug the printer back in and turn it on.
Q3: Can a dead battery prevent my Canon printer from turning on?
✔️ Yes! If you have a portable Canon printer with a battery, remove and reinsert the battery.
Q4: My Canon printer was working fine, but now it won’t turn on. What happened?
✔️ A power surge may have damaged the power supply.
✔️ A recent firmware update may have caused an error.
Q5: Is it worth repairing a Canon printer that won’t turn on?
✔️ If the printer is under warranty, it’s worth repairing.
✔️ If the repair cost is close to the price of a new printer, buying a new one may be a better option.
Final Thoughts
A Canon printer that won’t turn on can be frustrating, but most issues are fixable with the right troubleshooting steps. Try checking the power source, cables, and performing a reset before assuming major hardware failure.
If none of these fixes work, contact Canon support for professional assistance.