Epson EcoTank Error E02: 100016 Scanner Error - Can You Bypass a Damaged Scanner Tab?

Question

I watched your video about fixing the Epson EcoTank Error E02: 100016 scanner error. While trying to reinstall or fit the scanner section, I accidentally damaged one of the scanner tabs. I do not really need the scanner function, so I would prefer to bypass the error if possible. Is there a way to bypass this scanner error and still use the printer?

Answer

For the Epson EcoTank Error E02: 100016, unfortunately, you usually will not be able to bypass this error simply because you do not need the scanner function. Even if you only plan to use the printer for printing, many Epson EcoTank models still perform a startup self-check that includes the scanner unit. If the printer detects that the scanner is not positioned correctly, is not communicating properly, or has a damaged sensor/connection point, it may stop the entire machine from reaching the ready state.

In other words, the printer does not always separate the scanner system from the printing system. During startup, the firmware expects the scanner assembly to report back correctly. If that check fails, the printer may display Error E02: 100016 and prevent printing, copying, or other functions from continuing.

A damaged scanner tab can cause this error in a few different ways. If the tab is part of the scanner's physical locking or positioning system, the printer may think the scanner unit is misaligned or not fully seated. If the damage affected the area around the scanner cable, sensor flag, or scanner carriage movement, the printer may believe the scanner cannot initialize. In some cases, the scanner unit may try to move during startup, fail to reach its home position, and then trigger the 100016 scanner error.

Another common area to check is the scanner FFC cable, also called the flat flexible cable or ribbon cable. The scanner needs this cable to communicate with the printer's mainboard. If the cable is loose, damaged, creased, inserted crooked, or has dirty contacts, the printer may not receive the correct scanner signal. That can also result in E02: 100016. If the tab was damaged while trying to fit the scanner assembly, it is worth carefully checking whether the FFC cable was also pulled, bent, or misaligned.

If the cable is the damaged part, you may be able to replace it. You can search for the correct FFC cable on BCH Technologies [https://bchtechnologies.com]. When searching, make sure the cable matches your exact printer model, because FFC cables can vary by length, pin count, contact direction, and connector style. A cable that looks similar may still not work if the pin orientation or length is different.

Before replacing parts, inspect the scanner cable and connector carefully. Make sure the printer is unplugged before touching internal cables. Check that the FFC cable is fully seated and that the locking flap on the connector is not broken. Also inspect the cable ends for scratches, torn contacts, folds, ink contamination, or burn marks. If the FFC cable is inserted at an angle or not pushed in evenly, the scanner may fail communication even though the scanner itself is still good.

If the scanner tab itself is physically broken, the repair depends on what that tab does. If it is only a plastic alignment piece, it may sometimes be repaired or stabilized. However, if the damage prevents the scanner from sitting in the correct position or blocks the scanner carriage from moving freely, the printer may continue showing E02: 100016 until the scanner assembly is properly restored or replaced.

The important point is that this is not usually a software setting that can be disabled. There is generally no normal user-menu option to tell the Epson printer, "Ignore the scanner and print only." Once the machine detects a scanner initialization problem, the printer may stay locked at the error screen. For that reason, the practical fix is usually to repair the scanner connection, replace the damaged FFC cable, repair the damaged plastic positioning area if possible, or replace the scanner assembly if the damage is too severe.

Addressing printer issues can be a complicated affair because many of these problems require hands-on inspection. Because of that, we are not able to provide remote troubleshooting, repair suggestions, or step-by-step support for individual printer repairs. We do offer an in-person evaluation and repair service through our local diagnostic facility, BCH Technologies Printer Repair Service [https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service]. Due to high demand, we operate on a first-come, first-served basis, so it may take a few weeks before we are able to receive your printer for drop-off. Our services are structured to repair either the whole printer or specific parts, with instructions provided for how to proceed. However, we understand that our rates may not be the most economical option for every situation. For that reason, we highly recommend using self-help resources and online research when possible. You can begin by checking YouTube or visiting our YouTube channel homepage, BCH Technologies on YouTube [https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies]. Use the search icon next to the "About" tab on the right-hand side of the channel menu to look for videos related to your specific model or error code. I receive many questions every day asking whether we have a video on a certain topic, and after creating videos for many years, it is difficult to remember every single one. Using YouTube's search function is usually the most efficient way to find the right video, and YouTube may also suggest helpful videos from other creators.

Thank you again for reaching out and for watching our video. I'm sorry there is not a simple bypass for the E02: 100016 scanner error, but checking or replacing the scanner FFC cable would be one of the first practical places to start.