Epson Printer Error 031002 After DTF Conversion and Head Cleaning: What It Means and What to Do

Question: I’ve only had my Epson printer for a week, and after doing a head cleaning, it displayed error code 031002. I did a DTF conversion on it. Can this be repaired, or should I go through the warranty?

Answer:

 Understanding Epson Error Code 031002

Error 031002 is a fatal hardware error on Epson printers. It’s a general error that typically points to a communication issue between the printer’s logic board (mainboard) and the printhead. This can occur due to:

• A damaged or improperly connected FFC cable (Flat Flexible Cable)

• A defective or misaligned printhead

• Faults in the mainboard circuitry itself

• Short circuits caused by liquid ink residue from head cleanings or DTF ink installations

Because this error appeared after a head cleaning—especially post-DTF conversion—it suggests that something in the printhead or wiring may have shorted or been misread by the printer's onboard diagnostic system.

Can This Be Repaired?

Yes, but repairs can be involved and require several components to be checked or replaced. Here's a typical repair approach for error 031002:

1. Inspect and Replace the FFC Cable:
   The FFC cable connects the mainboard to the printhead. DTF ink systems and repeated maintenance can cause moisture exposure or wear to this ribbon cable. If it’s even slightly damaged, it can throw a fatal error.

2. Check the Printhead for Damage:
   If the head cleaning pushed fluid into the ribbon connectors or if the DTF ink system back-flowed, the printhead might be damaged. A replacement printhead is often required.

3. Examine the Mainboard:
   The mainboard might have experienced a short or blown fuse. This is especially likely if the error appeared immediately after a cleaning. A trained technician can attempt board-level repair, or you may need a full replacement.

About Warranty Coverage

While it’s logical first to try claiming warranty—especially since the printer is just a week old—unfortunately, Epson is likely to void the warranty once they detect any signs of DTF modification. Epson printers are designed and sold with specific ink systems and operating environments in mind. Any deviation, especially third-party ink systems like DTF, generally nullifies the warranty coverage.

So while you're welcome to reach out to Epson support to attempt a claim, be prepared for denial if any internal signs of DTF ink, tubing, or altered parts are visible.

What Are Your Options?

If you're unable to use the warranty and you feel comfortable with DIY repair work:

• Source a new FFC cable and install it

• Replace the printhead

• If needed, replace or repair the mainboard

Alternatively, you can bring it to a trusted repair center (including ours) for professional evaluation.

A Note About Our Repair Services

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 arrange for your printer to be dropped off.

Our services are structured to repair either the 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 YouTube or visiting our YouTube channel's homepage (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies). Look for specific videos using the search icon next to "About" on the right-hand side of the menu bar.

We get dozens of questions every day about specific printer problems, and while we’ve made hundreds of videos over the past nine years, using YouTube’s search bar will help you locate the most relevant content faster, even from other creators.

Thanks again for reaching out to us. We hope this helps you make an informed decision on how to proceed with your printer, and we appreciate your continued support of BCH Technologies!