Troubleshooting Epson ET-8550 Printer Errors: Codes 000021, 000023, and 000031 with Solutions

Question:
Error codes 000021, 000023, and 000031——Epson ET-8550 printer. Alongside these errors, there’s an odd winding-down sound. I did manage to get rid of the left-slamming screech, as shown in this video, but now these problems. What are the reasons and potential solutions?
 
Answer:
Thanks for reaching out, and I’m sorry I didn’t get back to you sooner. I know that printer issues can be very time-sensitive, and I want to ensure you hear back from me thoroughly enough to address your issues. Your support is critical to BCH Technologies, especially your views on our YouTube Channel (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies)! Your input helps us improve our blogging and keep creating helpful content for people like you, printer users!
 
Next, let’s start digging into your printer’s errors and symptoms.
The standard cause error code 000021 is mostly resolvable by fixing entries related to a problem in the carriage motor (CR motor). This motor moves the printhead carriage along the rail. Here are some frequent reasons and fixes:
 
Blocked Carriage Movement
  • Could you check for paper jamming or other material blocking the carriage path?
  • Check for resistance by gently sliding the printhead carriage back and forth on the rail.
  • If any debris or papers are found, please remove them carefully and clean them within this area.
  • Easily lubricate the rail to reduce friction and eliminate unusual noises.
CR Timing Belt Issues
  • Inspect the CR timing belt for wear, fraying, or loosening.
  • The error is also caused by a tumbling or damaged belt that cannot move correctly from the printhead side. If necessary, please change the belt.
Dirty CR Scale
  • The CR scale tracks the position of the printhead. Ink residue or dirt at this level can result in misreads.
  • Could you gently wipe the scale with a microfiber cloth and a mild cleaner?
Faulty CR Motor or Mainboard
  • If all mechanical parts are working fine but the error continues, you should test the CR motor and replace it if it’s defective.
  • A faulty mainboard may also be the issue. After you have ruled out other problems, a defective mainboard should be a last resort.
Fixing Error Codes 000023 and 000031
 
Error Code 000023
This error is generally an indication of paper feed or path issues. Possible fixes:
  • Verify there’s no paper jam.
  • Look for wear or dirt on the rollers and clean them with isopropyl alcohol.
  • Check for obstructions on the capping station and wiper blade that could prevent the printhead from moving.
 
Error Code 000031
This code indicates a jam or failure of the printer’s ink system or carriage area. Solutions include:
Inspect the Ink System
Be sure the ink tubes aren’t out of line or dragging the carriage.
For loose tubing, stabilize it with tape or attach a drag chain to prevent it from interfering.
Examine the Capping Station
  • The capping station gets stuck or misaligned, causing improper printhead removal. Could you clean and adjust as needed?
Test the Rail and Movement
  • By moving the head manually, check for any resistance or strange sounds.
  • Cleaning, lubricating, and testing any moving parts.
Other Troubleshooting Tips
  • Wear and Lubrication: Examine moving parts for wear signs and proper lubrication. Fix these so everything runs well.
  • Test Each Component If Possible: If possible, test each component (CR motor, timing belt, etc.) independently. Replace any defective parts.
 
Dealing with printer problems can be difficult because the issues tend to be tactile. So, we can't help troubleshoot, diagnose, or repair the printer remotely. We have an in-person evaluation and repair service through our local diagnostic facility (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service). Since we are in high demand, we operate on a first-come, first-served basis, and it may take a couple of weeks for us to get your printer to drop off. We offer the same parts of the printer no matter how badly damaged they are and what instructions to do next to help you with your repair. But we also know that we are not the cheapest option. So we strongly suggest you find self-help through online research. On YouTube (or you can also visit the homepage of our YouTube channel (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies), you can find specific videos by searching with the search icon next to "About" in the right section of the menu bar.
We appreciate your patience and value you're taking the time to contact us. We hope this will help you in your quest to fix and maintain your printer!