Epson Error Code 031006: Troubleshooting How To Resolve Printhead Issues

Question:
I bought the DTF solution to clean my printhead since I got striped between pictures when I printed. After trying to clean the printhead with the solution, it didn’t work either, so I removed the printhead, cleaned everything up, and put the printer back. But when I reassemble it and power on the printer, it shows me error code 031006. What does this error mean, and how do I resolve it so that my printer is printing again?”
 
Answer:
Thanks for writing, and I’m sorry it took so long to respond. I understand that printer issues can be frustrating, especially when trying to restore normality, so thank you for your patience. Thank you so much for your continued support of BCH Technologies. You can also find us on YouTube if you haven't already: https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies. Your feedback is critical to us, as it helps us broaden our technical knowledge and provide you with helpful content.
 
You have been working hard to resolve the issue of an error code popping up on your printhead, but error code 031006 has appeared, which can be pretty challenging to decide. Usually, this error is due to an issue in communication between the printhead and the motherboard. There are a few things that can cause this, including:
 
Loose or Improperly Connected Ribbon Cables:
Could you make sure that the flat ribbon cables connecting the printhead to the motherboard are not loose or disconnected? This is a prevalent reason for communication errors.
 
Contamination of the Contacts:
Contamination from ink residue, dust, and other contaminants can disrupt the electrical signals that communicate these two components properly.
 
Printhead: Internal Damage
Submerging the printhead or reassembling it incorrectly could cause internal damage. This may cause a clog, electrical malfunction, or mechanical failure inside the printhead.
 
Defective Printhead Sensor or Motherboard.
You may also be dealing with a faulty printhead sensor or motherboard, which directs the printhead to operate.
 
Troubleshooting Steps
We’ve put together a guide to help fix this error and get your printer up and running again:
 
Inspect the Ribbon Cables:
Open the printer and inspect the ribbon cables connected to the printhead. Ensure that they are mounted securely and show no signs of damage. Disconnect the cables as required and reconnect them to verify a proper link.
 
Clean the Contacts:
Check for ink residue or dust on the printhead and cable connectors. Soak a lint-free cloth or cotton swabs in isopropyl alcohol (90% or pure) and gently clean the contacts. Be sure to let everything dry well before putting the printer back together.
 
Perform a Hard Reset:
A simple reset can help clear communication errors. Turn off, unplug, and wait 5–10 minutes before plugging the printer back in. Then plug it in again, turn it on, and see if the error code clears.
 
Run a Nozzle Check:
If the printer powers on and the error code does not show, please perform a nozzle check to see if the ink is being dispensed properly. If you encounter any print quality issues — such as missing nozzles or faint prints — this might signal an issue with the printhead.
 
Check for Physical Damage:
Check for any physical damage to the printhead, such as broken parts or worn-out nozzles. Please remove the ribbon cassette and check the printhead for any damage or wear. If significant, the printhead may need replacing.
 
Repair Services
If none of these troubleshooting steps work, you may have internal damage to the printhead or another issue requiring a professional repair. At BCH Technologies, we provide diagnostic and repair services for Epson printers, including models like the ET-8550.

• Testing the printer is the first part of the service.
• Repair Services: If you decide to make repairs, your diagnostic fee will be applied towards the cost of the repair.

 
The problem with printers is that fixing them is a tricky business because the issues are very hands-on. So, we're not able to do remote troubleshooting, having you suggest things for that printer, or providing support on fixing that printer. We provide an in-person assessment and repair service through our local diagnostic facility (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service); this being in high demand, we go on a first-come, first-served basis, so it may take a couple of weeks to get your printer to get it, so we kindly ask you to wait for completion. How to fix the whole printer or part of it is also clearly mentioned. That's how we have organized our services. But we admit our rates are not the cheapest in the business. ,So we strongly suggest that you do self-help through online study, if you don't mind. You should begin by searching via YouTube or on the main page of our YouTube channel (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies) and clicking on the search icon on the right side of the menu bar, next to "About," to find specific videos. I get a lot of questions every day about videos for particular subjects. Having been making videos for the past nine years, I find it hard to remember every video. Hence, the best use of this platform would be to search for content on YouTube directly. In addition, YouTube could recommend relevant videos from other channels that can help you.
Thank you for your continued patience and for contacting us. This applies to your printer and hopefully solves the problem!