How to Fix Error Codes 031002 and 031004 on Your Epson ET-8550 Printer

Question

I had a really bad clog on my Epson ET-8550. After removing the print head and cleaning it, I got an error code 031002. Now that I replaced the print head, I have a new error 031004. I’m not sure what else I can do at this point. Can this be fixed? Or is the printer no good?

Answer

Thank you for contacting us at BCH Technologies. We are grateful for your engagement and support, particularly with regard to our YouTube channel (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies). Your feedback plays a crucial role in further developing our technical expertise.

When your printer starts, it performs a series of self-diagnoses. This process includes sending signals to the printhead, heating up some components, and testing resistance to estimate temperature. The error codes you're encountering indicate specific issues detected during these diagnostics.

Error 031002

Meaning: X-Hot detect error (after flushing)

Description:

• Printhead failure
• Main Board failure

Error 031004

Meaning: Head temperature error

Description:

• Printhead failure
• Main Board failure

Both errors suggest a short circuit within your printer. The problem might be inside the printhead, on the Flat Flexible Cable (FFC) or the mainboard, especially if the previous printhead caused damage. Essentially, your second printhead passed the initial test but the short circuit persists elsewhere in the printer.

Addressing printer issues can be a complicated affair due to the hands-on nature of the problems. So, we're not able to provide remote troubleshooting, suggestions, or support for printer repairs. We offer an in-person evaluation and repair service via our local diagnostic facility (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service). Given the high demand, we operate on a first-come, first-served basis. So, it might take a few weeks before we can get your printer to drop it off or mail it to us.

Our services are structured to repair either a whole printer or specific parts, with clear instructions on how to proceed if you opt for mail-in or local drop-off services. However, we acknowledge that our rates aren't the most economical. Thus, we highly recommend that you resort to self-help via online research. You can start by checking out YouTube or visiting our YouTube channel's homepage (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies). Look for specific videos using the search icon next to "About" on the right-hand side of the menu bar. I receive dozens of queries every day asking about videos for specific topics. Having created videos over the past nine years, it's challenging to remember every single one. Therefore, using YouTube's search function would be most efficient. Plus, YouTube might suggest relevant videos from other channels that could assist you.

Thank you once again for reaching out to us. We appreciate your support and hope this information helps you resolve the issue with your printer.