How to Resolve 0xE4 & 0xE5 PF Position PID Overload Errors on Printer

Question: 
I was cleaning my printhead and possibly used too much liquid on the underside (the chip), which may have gotten it wet. Once I turn on the printer, it takes a long time to move, and both lights blink at once. I did a lookup of the error codes and got back:

• 0xE4: PF Position PID Overload Error
• 0xE5: PF Position PID Overload Error

The sensors and the encoder strip were carefully inspected and cleaned, but the issue remains. The paper feeds, but the printer moves slowly before the blinking lights. My husband has been struggling with this for two days without success. Please advise.
 
Answer:  

I truly apologize for taking so long to reply. I know people have printer issues, and they are time-sensitive, so I want to get as detailed and accurate troubleshooting steps as possible. So, we at BCH Technologies (https://bchtechnologies.com) thank you for your interest and support on our YouTube channel (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies) and more! Your questions and comments help us improve our techniques and topics.
Let’s correct the error you’re encountering when we go into 0xE4 and 0xE5.
 
The 0xE4/0xE5 PF Position PID Overload Errors
These error codes indicate that the printer made an error in the platen feed (PF) motor on the position detection system. The PID (Proportional-Integral-Derivative) control system is in charge of keeping the motion of the motor smooth, and an overload error means that:
 

1. The printhead or carriage might be jammed up and failing to move.
2. The encoder strip (used to track printhead movement) is dirty, misaligned, or damaged.
3. Excessive friction in the printhead or paper feed system is caused by exposure to moisture or contaminants.

Troubleshooting Steps
Here’s how to fix these problems:
Printer Needs to be Reset and Power Cycled

• Unplug the printer and leave it off for 10 minutes.
• Unplugged, hold the power button for 30 seconds.
• Plug the printer back in and power it up to check if the error clears.

Check the Printhead Movement

• Allow the printhead to move manually while the power is off. It needs to slide freely across the rail without dragging.
• If movement seems slow, ensure no jams or debris on the printer head path.
• If the bottom of the printhead is soaked, allow it to dry completely (at least 24 hours) before turning the printer back on.

Clean the Encoder Strip

• That’s a transparent plastic strip called an encoder strip that runs behind the printhead. And if it’s dirty or smudged, the printer fails to read position data properly.
• Clean the encoder strip using isopropyl alcohol (minimum 90%) and a lint-free cloth.
• Check to see if the encoder strip is in alignment. If it is, carefully reposition it.

Inspect the Paper Feed System

• Could you ensure there is no paper jam or obstruction in the rollers? The error occurs after the paper feed is initialized.
• Remove the printer’s access panels and check all rollers for debris or signs of wear.
• Could you wipe the rollers with a damp, lint-free cloth?

Perform a Factory Reset

• Certain printers have a reset feature in the maintenance menu.
• If no software reset is available, an Epson Adjustment Program may help diagnose the issue. Note: You can search the BCH Epson Error Guide for more details.

Final Thoughts
It looks like a PID error related to a failed check of a printhead function, which fits your description and video. The printer checks the movement and function of the printhead and the paper feed after a paper jam or sensor issue. As you state, the printer stops right at this point with the 0xE4 and 0xE5 errors. It seems very likely that this is related to a failure of the printhead movement or misalignment of the related sensors.
 
When to Seek Help from a Professional
Of course, if none of these troubleshooting steps work, you might need your game console to be repaired professionally. We also provide printer diagnostics and in-person repairs at BCH Technologies (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service). You will be placed in a queue for our skilled technicians, but please keep in mind that we continue on a first-come, first-serve basis, so there may be a waiting period until we can review your printer. While not the most budget-friendly option, we repair entire units and replace certain parts. If you want to do it yourself, we highly recommend visiting our YouTube Channel (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies), where we host many troubleshooting tips and tricks types of content. Use the search icon next to “About” on our channel page to locate relevant videos.
 
We're sorry for any issues this may have caused you and appreciate your contacting us! I wish you success with this guide in troubleshooting your printer. If you have any other questions, please feel free to reach out. Thanks for sticking with us!