Canon 1403 Error: Wrong Print Head Meaning and Fixes

Error 1403 on your Canon PIXMA printer means the machine cannot communicate with the print head. This usually happens right after you install a new part. The printer is reporting that the print head is the wrong model, is seated incorrectly, or has dirty contacts.

Do not assume the printer is ruined or run a firmware update. Firmware updates do not fix this error. Avoid using cotton swabs with alcohol to clean the contacts because they leave fibers behind and cause secondary errors. Forcing an incorrect print head into the machine permanently triggers the error until you install the right part.

This is an electrical recognition and hardware mismatch issue. The carriage uses a mechanical latch lever to lock the print head, and your ink tanks must click into place to maintain alignment. A faulty internal logic board can misread a functioning print head, and damaged gold pins inside the carriage require professional repair, but the message usually points directly to a physical connection failure at the print head.

• An incorrect print head model was installed.
• The print head is not firmly locked into the carriage.
• Ink residue or debris is blocking the gold electrical contacts.
• The electrical contacts inside the printer carriage are damaged.
• The print head electronic chip has failed.
• A temporary electrical glitch is causing a communication failure.
• Ink tanks are improperly seated and interfere with print head locking.

1. 1Confirm whether the print head was recently replaced.
2. 2Check if any recent paper jams occurred inside the carriage area.

1. 1

   Power Cycle the Printer

   Turn off the printer using the power button. Unplug the power cord from the back for sixty seconds. Plug it back in and turn the printer on to clear temporary error states.

2. 2

   Open the Print Head Access Cover

   Unplug the printer for safety. Open the scanner unit or top cover to allow the print head carriage to move into the replacement position.

3. 3

   Remove the Print Head

   Lift the locking lever or remove the ink tanks if required to release the print head. Carefully lift the print head straight up and out of the carriage.

4. 4

   Inspect the Print Head Contacts

   Look at the gold contact pads on the back and sides of the print head. Check for ink smudges, dust, or physical scratches.

5. 5

   Clean the Electrical Contacts

   Wipe the gold contact pads gently with a dry, lint-free cloth such as a micro-fiber cloth. Do not use paper towels or tissues that leave fibers behind.

   Never touch the nozzle orifices or the ink supply ports.

6. 6

   Reseat the Print Head

   Place the print head back down firmly into the carriage. Lower the locking lever completely until it clicks into place to ensure proper electrical contact.

7. 7

   Reseat the Ink Tanks

   Press down on each individual ink tank until you hear a click, ensuring they are flush with the print head structure.

8. 8

   Close Covers and Test

   Close all printer covers and plug the power cord back in. Turn on the printer and check if the error is gone.