EPSON XP-4205 Not Recognizing Ink Cartridges After Firmware Update? Here’s How to Fix It

Question:
After updating the firmware on my EPSON XP-4205 printer, it no longer recognizes the ink cartridges. What can I do to resolve this issue?

Answer:

What Happened After the Firmware Update?

What you’re experiencing is, unfortunately, a common issue that often follows official Epson firmware updates. These updates usually include changes designed to block the use of third-party or remanufactured ink cartridges. When this happens, your printer may display an error message or fail to recognize the installed cartridges, even if they were working perfectly before the update.

Step-by-Step Fixes You Can Try

1. Recovery Firmware Method

Start by putting the printer into Service Mode and using Epson’s Recovery Firmware tool to overwrite the firmware update. This method essentially reinstalls the existing firmware without the latest cartridge restrictions.

• Check Epson’s official support site or community forums for access to the recovery utility for XP-4205.

• Follow their instructions for entering Firmware Recovery Mode (usually involves pressing and holding specific buttons while turning on the printer).

• Use a USB connection for a more stable update.

2. WICReset Software for Firmware Rollback

If the recovery method doesn’t work, consider using WICReset. This third-party software tool allows you to roll back your printer’s firmware to a version that supports third-party cartridges.

• Visit WICReset [https://www.wic.support/download/].

• Download and install the utility.

• Follow the prompts to roll back the firmware. You’ll need to ensure you have the rollback version (e.g., versions dated before the update).

• In some cases, a one-time-use key is required for firmware downgrade.

3. EEPROM Rewrite via Binary Dump

If you suspect EEPROM corruption, which is rare but possible after a botched update or power loss during firmware installation, a more advanced fix is available:

• Search for a compatible binary dump file (look for terms like "bin dump XP-4205 site:bchtechnologies.com").

• You can build or purchase an EEPROM programmer (search “CH341A programmer” on Amazon or eBay).

• Carefully remove the EEPROM chip from the printer’s logic board, reprogram it using the binary dump, and solder it back—or replace it entirely if corruption is suspected.

This third method is only for those with electronics experience or those willing to experiment with hardware-level fixes.

A Word of Caution:
Addressing printer issues can be a complicated affair due to the hands-on nature of the problems. Therefore, we're unable 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. Therefore, it may take a few weeks before we can arrange for your printer to drop it 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 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. I receive dozens of queries every day asking about videos for specific topics. Having created videos over the past nine years, it's challenging to remember every single one. Therefore, using YouTube's search function would be the most efficient approach. Additionally, YouTube may suggest relevant videos from other channels that can assist you.

Thank you again for reaching out. We appreciate your trust in BCH Technologies. We hope one of the solutions above gets your printer back up and running smoothly!