How to Fix Epson L1800 Error Code 0x71: A Complete Troubleshooting Guide

Customer Question

I’m experiencing a 0x71 error code on my Epson L1800 printer. I’ve already tried all the recommendations mentioned in your previous post, but the issue persists. What should I do next?

Answer

What Does Error Code 0x71 Mean?

Error code 0x71 on Epson printers, including the L1800, typically indicates a mechanical malfunction, often associated with the APG (Auto Paper Gap) motor or a blocked carriage path. This code can be triggered by:

• Obstructed movement of the print head

• A faulty APG motor

• Foreign objects or jammed paper

• Accumulated dust or internal debris

• Miscommunication between the firmware and hardware

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide

1. Power Cycle the Printer

Begin with a simple reset:

• Turn the printer off

• Unplug it from the power outlet

• Wait for 60 seconds

• Plug it back in and turn it on

Sometimes, this clears temporary glitches that trigger the 0x71 error.

2. Inspect for Paper Jams or Foreign Objects

Open the top cover and carefully:

• Move the printhead left and right manually (when powered off) to check for resistance

• Look for crumpled paper, small fragments, or ink buildup in the carriage path

• Remove any debris gently with tweezers if necessary

3. Examine the APG Motor

The APG motor controls the adjustment of the paper feed gap. Here’s how to check it:

• Remove the back or underside panel of the printer to access the motor

• Visually inspect for signs of wear, cracks, or disconnected wires

• If the motor appears burnt out or doesn’t activate during power-up, it may need replacement

Note: This part may require moderate technical skill to access and test properly.

4. Clean the Internal Mechanisms

Dust or ink residue buildup is often underestimated. Use:

• Compressed air to clean out the dust

• A lint-free cloth dampened with isopropyl alcohol to clean rails, rollers, and sensors

Pay extra attention to the area around the APG motor and the print carriage track.

5. Check for Firmware or Software Updates

Outdated firmware can cause miscommunications between the printer's components. To check:

• Visit the official Epson Support site (https://www.epson.com/Support/Printers)

• Download and install the latest firmware updates for the L1800 model

6. Last Resort: Epson Support or Local Technician

If none of the above steps resolves the error:

• Contact Epson for advanced diagnostics

• Or bring your printer to a certified printer repair technician who can test circuit-level issues

Preventive Tips to Avoid Recurrence

• Clean your printer's interior monthly if used heavily

• Keep the printer covered when not in use to reduce dust accumulation

• Avoid low-quality paper that leaves fibers or dust behind

• Monitor for firmware updates at least quarterly

About Repair Service and Video Support

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 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. 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. Plus, YouTube might suggest relevant videos from other channels that could assist you.

Thank you once again for reaching out to us. We value your trust in our products and content, and we’re here to assist you whenever possible. Best of luck getting your L1800 back up and running!