Epson WorkForce WF-3640 Error 0x97 or 0xEA and Ink Not Recognized – Causes and Solutions

Question:
My Epson WorkForce WF-3640 is showing error codes 0x97 or 0xEA. On top of that, the printer does not recognize the ink even after I remove and reinstall it. What could be causing this, and how can I fix it?

1. Understanding Error Codes 0x97 and 0xEA

• Error 0x97: This is a standard Epson WorkForce series error linked to internal hardware failure—often the motherboard or a critical mechanical sensor. Sometimes it can also be triggered by a printhead communication failure.

• Error 0xEA: This usually indicates a carriage movement issue, such as an obstruction in the carriage path, a misaligned encoder strip, or a problem with the carriage sensor.

Quick checks for both errors:

1. Power off the printer and unplug it from the wall.

2. Open the printer cover and look for any loose paper scraps, dried ink chunks, or foreign objects in the carriage path.

3. Inspect the encoder strip (the clear plastic strip running behind the carriage) for smudges or ink spots—clean gently with a lint-free cloth and isopropyl alcohol.

4. Reconnect the power and test again.

If the errors persist, these may point to deeper electronic issues, in which case professional servicing may be necessary.

2. Why Ink Is Not Being Recognized

If the printer still does not recognize your cartridges even after reseating them, the likely causes include:

• Dirty or oxidized chip contacts on the cartridge – The gold-colored contacts can develop a thin layer of oxidation or ink residue. Cleaning them with a lint-free cloth lightly dampened with 90%+ isopropyl alcohol can restore a good electrical connection.

• Damaged cartridge chip – If the chip is cracked, burned, or missing components, the printer will fail to detect it.

• Faulty printer chip reader – The spring-loaded pins in the cartridge slot can get bent, stuck, or broken. In such cases, the printer may not detect any cartridge at all.

• Non-genuine cartridge firmware blocks – Epson periodically updates printer firmware to reject third-party cartridges. Rolling back firmware (if possible) or using chips compatible with the latest firmware may help.

3. Step-by-Step Troubleshooting for Ink Recognition

1. Remove all cartridges and turn off the printer.

2. Clean the gold chip contacts on each cartridge with alcohol and let them dry completely.

3. Inspect the chip reader inside the printer for bent pins or ink buildup—clean carefully with a dry cotton swab.

4. Reinstall the cartridges one by one, checking for recognition after each one.

5. If the problem persists with one specific cartridge, try replacing that cartridge with a known good one.

For visual guidance, you can watch our demonstration here: Extreme Unclog Epson Printhead WorkForce WF-3640 Fix 0x97 0xEA Error (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tFXArnIGrAA).

Addressing printer issues can be a complicated process due to the hands-on nature of the problems. For that reason, we cannot provide remote repair support. However, we do offer in-person evaluations and repairs through our local diagnostic facility (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service). Because of high demand, service is first-come, first-served, and it may take a few weeks before your printer can be examined. We repair both entire units and specific parts, with clear guidance on next steps. While our rates may not be the lowest, we strongly encourage exploring self-help options through online research, starting with our YouTube channel (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies). Use the search icon next to “About” on the channel page to find videos on specific printer issues—YouTube may also recommend relevant videos from other channels.

Thank you again for your question and for being part of the BCH Technologies community!