Epson ET-8550 Error Code 100017: Causes, Meaning, and How to Fix It

Customer Question 

I have an Epson ET-8550 and I'm getting error code 100017. Do you have any suggestions on how to repair or fix this issue?

Answer

Now, let's break down Epson ET-8550 error code 100017.

What Does Error Code 100017 Mean?

Error code 100017 on the Epson ET-8550 typically relates to a carriage movement or CR (Carriage Return) system issue. In simple terms, the printer is detecting that the printhead carriage is not moving correctly or not reaching its expected position during startup or operation.

This can happen due to:

• Physical obstruction in the carriage path

• Encoder strip contamination

• Carriage motor or belt issue

• Printhead cable misalignment

• Internal sensor detection failure

The printer's firmware continuously monitors carriage position using the CR encoder strip and related sensors. If the carriage cannot initialize properly during power-up, it triggers error 100017 and stops operation.

Step-by-Step Things to Check

1. Check for Physical Obstructions

Turn the printer off and unplug it.

Open the top cover and gently inspect the carriage path:

• Remove any visible paper scraps.

• Look for foreign objects (small plastic pieces, dried ink clumps, broken parts).

• Make sure nothing is blocking the left or right parking positions.

Sometimes even a tiny piece of hardened ink near the capping station can stop full movement.

2. Inspect the Encoder Strip

The encoder strip is the thin, transparent plastic strip that runs horizontally behind the carriage.

If it is:

• Smudged with ink

• Coated with grease

• Scratched or dislodged

The carriage sensor cannot read position properly, triggering error 100017.

If dirty:

• Use lint-free cloth lightly dampened with distilled water.

• Gently wipe both sides.

• Do NOT use alcohol (it can damage markings).

Make sure the strip is:

• Properly seated in the encoder sensor slot behind the carriage.

• Not twisted or popped out of its guide.

3. Check the Carriage Belt

The carriage belt runs along the back rail.

Look for:

• Belt slipping off track

• Missing teeth

• Excessive slack

• Cracks or fraying

If the belt jumps teeth during startup, the printer detects incorrect carriage position and throws 100017.

4. Check the Printhead Ribbon Cable

If the printer was recently serviced (mainboard, printhead, dampers, etc.), check:

• Ribbon cables fully seated

• No bent pins

• No partially inserted connectors

• No creased or torn ribbon

A misaligned cable can interfere with carriage initialization.

5. Capping Station Interference

Sometimes thick ink (especially DTF ink) can harden around the capping station, preventing the carriage from fully docking or undocking.

If the head cannot leave the parked position smoothly, the firmware may interpret it as a movement fault and trigger 100017.

Inspect:

• Cap top condition

• Wiper blade alignment

• Any hardened ink buildup

Less Common Causes

If none of the above resolve it, possible internal causes include:

• Carriage motor failure

• CR encoder sensor failure

• Mainboard driver issue

These typically require part-level diagnostics.

Important Note About Error Codes

Error 100017 is specifically a carriage/CR system initialization problem. If you also see additional codes (for example, codes starting with 0xEA, 0x97, or other mechanical errors), those would indicate different subsystems and should be addressed separately.

Addressing printer issues can be a complicated affair due to the hands-on nature of these problems. Because of this, we're not able to provide remote troubleshooting, detailed step-by-step repair supervision, or direct technical repair support. We do offer in-person evaluation and repair services at our local diagnostic facility: Printer Repair Service (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service). Due to high demand, we operate on a first-come, first-served basis, and it may take several weeks before there is availability for drop-off. Our services are structured to repair either an entire printer or specific components, with clear intake procedures. We also recognize our rates may not be the lowest available, so we strongly encourage self-guided research first. A great place to begin is our YouTube channel homepage: BCH Technologies on YouTube (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies). Use the search icon next to "About" on the right side of the menu bar to quickly locate relevant videos. After creating content for over nine years, it's impossible to remember every video topic offhand, so the YouTube search function is the fastest method. YouTube may also suggest helpful content from other creators that applies to your situation.

Thank you again for reaching out. I hope these checks help you narrow down the cause of the 100017 error and get your ET-8550 back up and running.