Hi lesliezephir,
The waste ink absorber is a part inside of your printer that absorbs excess ink used in the cleaning and printing operations. Printing can be performed until the waste ink absorber becomes full. When the message changes to indicate that the waste ink absorber is full, printing cannot be performed and the printer would need to be serviced..
Canon recommends having the printer serviced before the absorber becomes full. We are aware that there are many "do-it-yourself" Web sites that offer instructions for making this repair. Replacing the ink absorber is a complicated and potentially messy procedure. Even if the ink absorber is successfully changed, the ink absorber counter would need to be reset.
Please keep in mind that the costs associated with having this service performed may exceed the cost of a brand new printer.
You are eligible for Canon's Upgrade Program. This is for out of warranty units which have been diagnosed to require service, or for some reason are incompatible with a new or upgraded system. This option allows you a one-time opportunity to purchase a replacement product, discounted from the list price.
If you would like to take part in this option, please call our Sales Department at (866) 443-8002 Monday through Saturday, 9am to 9pm. Let them know you have been working with technical support and the Canon Upgrade Program was offered.
