Fixing Epson ET-8550 Error 031002 and False Paper Jam: What It Really Means and How to Fix It

Question:

I have an Epson ET-8550 printer showing error code 031002 and a paper jam message. I also noticed a small cut in the red and black wire connected to the ink tank cover. Could this be the reason for the issue? What is that wire called, and is a fix or video available?

Answer:

Understanding the Error and the Wire Cut

From the description and accompanying image, it looks like the cut red and black wire leads to the ink tank cover sensor. If this wire is damaged or disconnected, the printer may display a “cover not closed” error. However, this particular wiring issue does not cause the 031002 error. That wire issue is a separate problem and shouldn't be blamed for what you're seeing.

Breaking Down Error Code 031002

The error 031002 is one of several critical printhead-related fatal errors on Epson printers. Here's a quick breakdown of what these mean:

• 031001: Fatal Error – Head hot error (before printing)

• 031002: Fatal Error – Head hot error (after flushing)

• 031004: Fatal Error – Head temperature error

Your specific code, 031002, typically points to a short-circuited printhead that overheated during a post-flushing test. When the printer starts, it performs a diagnostic sequence to check for mechanical and electrical integrity. If something fails in the printhead's circuitry, the printer halts operations and returns this error code.

Paper Jam Message: A Symptom, Not the Cause

Many users mistakenly believe they’re experiencing a real paper jam, but what’s actually happening is that the printhead fails during startup, so it stops in the wrong position. The printer then throws a paper jam message simply because it detects the printhead in an unexpected spot. This is misleading but common.

So in summary:

• The wire cut affects the cover sensor, not error 031002.

• Error 031002 is related to printhead short-circuit and overheating, not paper feeding.

• The paper jam error is a false message triggered by the printhead failure.

Recommended Fixes

Based on the severity of this error, the following repairs are likely needed:

1. Replace the Printhead: The current one is likely damaged beyond software recovery.

2. Inspect or Replace the FFC (Flat Flexible Cable): A short circuit or poor connection on the cable could also trigger error 031002.

Make sure you disconnect the power and perform a careful inspection before swapping parts. There are videos available on our YouTube Channel (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies) that go over printhead replacement steps for various Epson models. Use the search icon next to "About" on our channel page to look up ET-8550 printhead replacement or 031002 error fix.

Final Notes on Support

Tackling printer errors can be tricky since they often require direct inspection or hands-on fixes. For this reason, we’re unable to offer remote diagnosis or support for hardware repairs. That said, we do offer in-person help through our local diagnostic and repair service (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service). Due to high demand, repairs are handled first-come, first-served, and it might take a few weeks to process your printer.

We understand our services might not be the most cost-effective option for everyone, so we highly recommend DIY troubleshooting as a first step. You can learn a lot by checking videos from our YouTube channel or by using YouTube’s broader search capabilities. Given the volume of questions we receive daily, it’s hard to recall every single tutorial, so using keywords is the best way to locate specific fixes.