Seeing Canon Printer Error 1712 can be frustrating, especially when you’re in the middle of an important print job. This error is commonly associated with Canon PIXMA printers and usually indicates that the printer’s carriage mechanism cannot move correctly due to an internal obstruction, paper jam, or mechanical issue. In some cases, the error may also occur after replacing ink cartridges or when foreign objects interfere with the carriage path.

Fortunately, most cases of Canon Printer Error 1712 can be resolved without professional repair. This guide explains what the error means, its common causes, and step-by-step solutions to get your Canon printer working again.

What You’ll Learn

• What Canon Printer Error 1712 means
• Common causes of Error 1712
• How to fix the error step by step
• How to inspect the printer safely
• When to reset your Canon printer
• Preventive maintenance tips
• Frequently asked questions

What Does Canon Printer Error 1712 Mean?

Canon Printer Error 1712 generally indicates that the printer detects a problem with the print head carriage movement. The carriage may be unable to travel across the rail because of an obstruction or mechanical resistance.

This safety feature prevents damage to internal printer components by stopping the printing process until the issue is resolved.

Common symptoms include:

• Error 1712 displayed on the screen
• Printer stops during startup
• Grinding or clicking noises
• The print carriage does not move
• Printing is interrupted

Common Causes of Canon Printer Error 1712

Several issues can trigger this error.

Paper Jam

Small pieces of torn paper often remain inside the printer after a paper jam and block carriage movement.

Foreign Objects

Objects such as paper clips, labels, dust, staples, or even small toys can become lodged inside the printer.

Ink Cartridge Installation Issues

Improperly installed or incompatible ink cartridges may prevent the carriage from moving freely.

Dirty Carriage Rail

Over time, dust and dried ink can accumulate on the carriage guide rail, increasing friction.

Mechanical Obstruction

A damaged gear, broken carriage belt, or worn mechanical component may prevent smooth movement.

Firmware or Temporary System Glitch

Occasionally, a software error can cause the printer to display Error 1712 even when no physical obstruction exists.

How to Fix Canon Printer Error 1712

Follow these troubleshooting steps in order.

Step 1: Restart the printer.

Begin with a simple restart.

1. Turn off the printer.
2. Disconnect the power cord.
3. Wait for 60 seconds.
4. Reconnect the power cable.
5. Turn the printer back on.

If the error disappears, the problem was likely temporary.

Step 2: Check for Paper Jams

Open every accessible cover and inspect the paper path.

Look for:

• Torn paper
• Folded sheets
• Labels
• Small paper scraps

Remove any obstruction carefully using both hands.

Avoid pulling paper forcefully, as it may leave additional pieces inside.

Step 3: Inspect the Print Head Carriage

With the printer powered off:

• Open the top cover.
• Wait until the carriage unlocks if applicable.
• Gently move the carriage from side to side.

It should move smoothly.

If resistance is felt, inspect the entire carriage path for obstructions.

Step 4: Check the Ink Cartridges

Remove each cartridge and inspect for:

• Incorrect installation
• Protective tape left attached
• Damaged plastic clips
• Ink leakage

Reinstall each cartridge until it clicks securely into place.

Step 5: Clean the Carriage Rail

Dust buildup can restrict carriage movement.

Use:

• A lint-free cloth
• Isopropyl alcohol (sparingly)

Wipe the metal guide rail gently.

Do not apply excessive lubricant or cleaning solution.

Step 6: Reset the printer.

If no hardware issue is found:

1. Turn the printer off.
2. Disconnect the power cable.
3. Wait one minute.
4. Restart the printer.

If your Canon model includes a maintenance or reset menu, perform a factory reset only after backing up any custom network settings.

Advanced Troubleshooting for Canon Printer Error 1712

If the problem persists, try these advanced solutions.

Update the printer driver.

Outdated drivers can occasionally trigger communication errors.

Download the latest Canon printer driver that matches your operating system.

Update Printer Firmware

Firmware updates often improve hardware compatibility and resolve known bugs.

Ensure the printer remains powered during the update process.

Check the carriage belt.

Inspect the timing belt for:

• Damage
• Slack
• Misalignment

A damaged belt usually requires professional service.

Inspect Internal Gears

Listen for:

• Grinding sounds
• Clicking noises
• Sudden stops

These symptoms may indicate worn gears or internal mechanical damage.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many users accidentally make the problem worse.

Avoid:

• Pulling jammed paper too quickly
• Forcing the carriage to move
• Using excessive force
• Installing incorrect ink cartridges
• Ignoring grinding noises
• Spraying cleaning liquids inside the printer

How to Prevent Canon Printer Error 1712

Preventive maintenance can reduce future printer problems.

Best practices include:

• Use clean, high-quality paper.
• Keep the paper tray properly aligned.
• Remove paper jams immediately.
• Clean dust from the printer regularly.
• Install genuine or compatible cartridges correctly.
• Avoid overloading the paper tray.
• Perform routine printer maintenance.

Regular care helps extend the life of your Canon printer.

Quick Answers

Can I continue printing with Canon Printer Error 1712?

No. The printer will usually stop operating until the underlying issue is resolved.

Is Canon Printer Error 1712 caused by a paper jam?

Very often, yes. Even a small paper fragment can block the carriage and trigger the error.

Does restarting the printer fix Error 1712?

A restart may clear temporary software glitches, but physical obstructions must still be removed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Canon Printer Error 1712 a hardware problem?

Not always. It may result from paper jams, cartridge installation issues, or temporary firmware errors.

Can dirty rails cause Error 1712?

Yes. Dust and dried ink on the carriage rail can restrict movement and generate the error.

Should I replace the ink cartridges?

Only if the cartridges are damaged, incompatible, or not recognized by the printer.

Can third-party cartridges trigger Error 1712?

In some cases, improperly manufactured cartridges may interfere with carriage movement.

When should I contact Canon support?

Seek professional assistance if:

• The carriage cannot move after cleaning.
• Internal gears appear damaged.
• Grinding noises continue.
• The error returns repeatedly after troubleshooting.

Conclusion

Canon Printer Error 1712 usually indicates that the print head carriage cannot move freely due to a paper jam, foreign object, improperly installed ink cartridge, or mechanical obstruction. Fortunately, most users can resolve the problem by inspecting the paper path, checking the carriage, cleaning the guide rail, and resetting the printer. Performing regular maintenance and using the correct supplies can help prevent this error from occurring again and keep your Canon printer operating reliably.