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46BrotherSerious

Brother Error 46 (Ink Absorber Full)

What it means

The ink absorber, or purge pad, that collects waste ink from cleaning is full. This is a maintenance limit. It needs the absorber serviced and the counter reset, which usually means an authorised service centre.

A full step-by-step guide is on the way

We publish guides only after checking each step against the manufacturer's own documentation, so this one is still being written. In the meantime, if the code relates to a jam or an obstruction, switching the printer off, unplugging it for a minute, and checking for anything stuck resolves a large share of cases. For a hardware fault, contact the manufacturer.

Official Brother support

Different code or problem?

Switch off and unplug a printer before reaching inside it. If a fault involves the power supply or internal electronics, or the machine is under warranty, contact the manufacturer or a qualified technician. Full disclaimer. Brand and code names are trademarks of their owners; PrinterFixUp is independent and unaffiliated.