Epson Error Code 000041 & 000044 After Ink Change: What They Mean and How to Fix Them

Customer Question:
I changed the ink cartridges on my Epson WorkForce printer, and now the ink cartridge won’t move. It worked fine before the cartridge change, but now I’m getting error codes 000041 and 000044. What do these errors mean, and how can I fix them?

Answer:

The Meaning Behind Epson Error Codes 000041 and 000044

These codes can point to very different issues depending on the model of your Epson WorkForce printer, so let's break it down carefully.

Error Code 000041 – Possible Causes

This error has two possible meanings depending on your printer model:

1. For many WorkForce models, 000041 means a "PF PID Overload Error." This is related to the paper feed (PF) motor. Common causes include:

   • PF motor failure

   • Paper jam or a foreign object blocking movement

   • Deformed main frame or bent guide rail

   • Skipped teeth on the PF timing belt

   • Incorrect tension in the PF timing belt

   • Disconnected cable

   • Motor driver failure on the mainboard

2. For some other models (especially those with ADF/Scanner modules), 000041 can also signal a scanner error.

So, without knowing the exact model, the error could point to either the paper feed motor system or the scanner mechanism. That’s why it’s essential to identify your printer’s full model number before beginning repairs.

Error Code 000044 – Likely Meaning

This error code is typically tied to the scanner subsystem or ADF (Automatic Document Feeder). It usually indicates:

• Scanner lock still engaged

• ADF cable is disconnected or damaged

• ADF motor jam or failure

• Scanner head failed to initialize properly

• Mainboard or scanner board communication error

If you recently removed, replaced, or disconnected the scanner or ADF—as discussed in our video Remove and Replace EPSON Scanner ADF for WorkForce Series (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ENOdkkVnpwY)—double-check all cable connections and alignment before powering the printer on again.

So, Why Won’t the Ink Cartridge Move?

The ink carriage will not move when:

• A fatal error is triggered (like 000041 or 000044).

• The PF motor is jammed, preventing the printer from completing its startup checks.

• The scanner mechanism fails, and the printer blocks mechanical movement as a safety measure.

• A cable is loose or disconnected from either the scanner or the PF motor assembly.

What You Can Do:

1. Please turn off the printer and unplug it.

2. Check the entire paper path for jams, loose rollers, or foreign objects.

3. Inspect all visible belts and motor assemblies for damage, alignment, or skipped teeth.

4. If you've recently opened the printer, ensure all ribbon cables are fully seated, especially the ones connecting the scanner and ADF (if applicable).

5. If you removed the scanner or ADF, verify that:

   • The scanner lock is fully disengaged.

   • The ADF cable is reconnected properly.

   • The scanner unit initializes when powered on.

If the model number is available, a service manual specific to your unit would help confirm which error map applies to your printer. Without knowing the model, we can’t give you exact steps. Still, the symptoms you describe—carriage not moving and errors after cartridge replacement—strongly suggest a mechanical or board-level issue.

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. Our services are structured to repair either a whole printer or specific parts, with clear instructions on how to proceed. 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 our YouTube channel (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies). Use the search icon next to "About" to find videos related to your specific printer model or error code. YouTube may also recommend videos from other channels that could be helpful.

Thanks again for reaching out and for supporting BCH Technologies. If you can provide your printer's exact model, we may be able to offer more tailored advice. In the meantime, we wish you the best with your troubleshooting efforts!