If your Brother printer displays Brother Printer Machine Error 71, it usually points to a hardware issue involving the scanner mechanism or an internal component that prevents the printer from completing its startup process. This error can stop printing, scanning, copying, and faxing, making the printer unusable until the problem is resolved.

The good news is that Error 71 isn’t always caused by a major hardware failure. In many cases, a simple restart, removing obstructions, or checking the scanner assembly can restore normal operation.

In this guide, you’ll learn what Brother Printer Machine Error 71 means, its common causes, proven troubleshooting methods, when to seek professional repair, and tips to prevent the error from occurring again.

What Is Brother Printer Machine Error 71?

Brother Printer Machine Error 71 is an internal hardware error commonly associated with the scanner unit or scanner motor. When the printer powers on, it performs a self-test by moving the scanner assembly. If the scanner cannot move correctly or the printer detects an abnormal condition, Error 71 appears on the display.

This error is more common in Brother all-in-one printers that include printing, scanning, copying, and faxing functions.

Common symptoms include:

• Printer displays “Machine Error 71”
• Scanner stops moving during startup
• Printer won’t print or scan
• Startup process freezes
• Printer continuously restarts
• Control panel becomes unresponsive

What Causes Brother Printer Machine Error 71?

Several hardware or mechanical problems can trigger this error.

The most common causes include:

• Scanner carriage obstruction
• Dirty or damaged scanner rail
• Scanner motor malfunction
• Loose internal cable connections
• Damaged scanner belt
• Power interruption during startup
• Internal circuit board failure
• Mechanical wear from prolonged use

Identifying the root cause helps determine whether the issue can be fixed at home or requires professional service.

How to Fix Brother Printer Machine Error 71

Follow these troubleshooting steps in order. Test the printer after completing each step.

Restart the Printer

Temporary hardware glitches can sometimes trigger Machine Error 71.

To restart the printer:

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

If the error disappears, no further troubleshooting is required.

Check the Scanner Unit

Since Error 71 is often related to the scanner mechanism, inspect the scanner carefully.

Look for:

• Pieces of paper
• Dust buildup
• Staples
• Labels
• Foreign objects
• Broken plastic components

Gently move the scanner carriage if it can be moved manually. It should slide smoothly without resistance.

Never force the scanner if it feels stuck.

Clean the Scanner Rail

Dust and debris can prevent smooth scanner movement.

Use:

• A soft microfiber cloth
• Compressed air
• A dry lint-free cloth

Avoid using excessive liquid cleaners.

Cleaning the rail often improves scanner movement and eliminates startup errors.

Inspect for Mechanical Damage

Open the scanner cover and inspect for obvious signs of damage.

Look for:

• Broken gears
• Loose belts
• Cracked plastic parts
• Bent scanner rail
• Disconnected cables

If any mechanical components appear damaged, replacement parts may be required.

Disconnect External Devices

Sometimes external devices interfere with printer startup.

Disconnect:

• USB cable
• Ethernet cable
• Memory cards
• Flash drives

Restart the printer using only the power cable.

If the printer starts normally, reconnect accessories one at a time.

Update Printer Firmware

Firmware updates may improve hardware communication and fix known software-related issues.

If your printer can still access the settings menu:

• Connect to Wi-Fi
• Check for firmware updates
• Install the latest available version

Never interrupt a firmware update.

Perform a Factory Reset

If the printer becomes operational long enough to access the menu, restoring factory settings may clear configuration issues.

Before resetting:

• Note your Wi-Fi credentials.
• Record custom printer settings.

After the reset:

• Reconnect the printer.
• Reinstall the printer driver if necessary.
• Test printing and scanning.

When Brother Printer Machine Error 71 Requires Professional Repair

Some cases cannot be resolved through basic troubleshooting.

Professional repair is recommended if:

• Scanner motor has failed
• Scanner belt is broken
• Logic board is damaged
• Scanner assembly is cracked
• Error returns immediately after restarting
• Loud grinding noises occur during startup

Attempting complex hardware repairs without experience may cause additional damage.

Tips to Prevent Brother Printer Machine Error 71

Routine maintenance helps reduce hardware failures.

Follow these best practices:

• Keep the scanner glass clean.
• Remove dust regularly.
• Avoid forcing the scanner lid closed.
• Use the printer on a stable surface.
• Protect the printer from power surges.
• Turn the printer off properly.
• Keep firmware updated.
• Schedule periodic cleaning for heavily used printers.

Preventive maintenance can significantly extend the life of your Brother printer.

Quick Answers

What does Brother Printer Machine Error 71 mean?

Machine Error 71 usually indicates a scanner-related hardware problem, such as a stuck scanner carriage, damaged scanner motor, or internal mechanical failure.

Can I fix Brother Printer Machine Error 71 myself?

Yes. Many cases are resolved by restarting the printer, cleaning the scanner mechanism, removing obstructions, or updating firmware. Hardware failures, however, usually require professional repair.

Does Error 71 affect printing?

Yes. Most Brother printers stop printing, scanning, copying, and faxing until the error is resolved.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Brother Printer Machine Error 71 caused by a paper jam?

Not usually. While debris inside the scanner area may contribute to the issue, Error 71 is primarily associated with the scanner mechanism rather than the paper feed system.

Can a power outage cause Machine Error 71?

Yes. A sudden power interruption during printer startup may temporarily trigger hardware initialization errors. Restarting the printer often resolves this.

Should I replace the printer after Error 71?

Not immediately. First perform all recommended troubleshooting steps. Many printers recover without requiring replacement. If the scanner motor or main board has failed and repair costs are high, replacing the printer may be more economical.

Can outdated firmware cause Machine Error 71?

Although the error is generally hardware-related, outdated firmware can sometimes contribute to startup issues. Keeping firmware updated is recommended.

How long does it take to repair Brother Printer Machine Error 71?

Basic troubleshooting typically takes 15–30 minutes. Professional repairs involving scanner components may take longer, depending on parts availability.

Conclusion

Brother Printer Machine Error 71 typically indicates a scanner-related hardware problem, but it doesn’t always mean your printer has reached the end of its life. By restarting the printer, inspecting the scanner assembly, cleaning the scanner rail, checking for obstructions, updating firmware, and performing a factory reset when possible, many users can restore normal operation. If the error persists after completing these steps, professional diagnosis is the safest option to prevent further damage and ensure reliable printer performance.