U052 Error

[tjcarlson]

I currently have a Pixma MG5220, I recently ordered 3, 5 packs of ink. when I received it I turned on the printer to put in new ink and this message came up "U052" the type of print head is incorrect" and I can no longer use my printer. I have followed all troubleshooting steps found on your web page and nothing has worked. I have tried other online suggestions and still nothing. i just spent $150 in ink and would like to continue using my printer but after everything I read it does not seem like replacing the print head will fix the issue. 

[Caemene]

Hi tjcarlson,

I understand you have performed several troubleshooting steps to resolve the U052 support code to no avail. This indicates that the unit does require service.

You can check with any local electronic repair shops in your area to see if they can perform the service. I would get a quote since it may cost more to repair the printer then it would to replace it.

I also note that you have purchased several sets of inks recently. I recommend contacting the retailer, if the ink cartridges are unopened and still in the original packaging, you may be able to get a refund. 

You also qualify for the Canon Upgrade Program.

This is for out of warranty units which have been diagnosed to require service or are incompatible with a new or upgraded system. This program allows you the opportunity to purchase a replacement product discounted from the list price. Free ground shipping is included with your purchase.

If you would like to take advantage of this offer, please call our Sales Department at (866) 443-8002 seven days a week, 8 AM to midnight EST.

[NewAge1]

U052 Incorrect Printhead TEMPORARY Bypass

Canon MX700 printer printhead diagram

https://support.usa.canon.com/kb/index?page=content&id=ART114232

NOTE: Scroll down to “Reseating the Print Head” to see the print head

            diagrams of print head nozzles, electrical contacts, ink supply ports.

1. I have successfully TEMPORARILY bypassed the U052 incorrect print 

    head error on my 11 year old Canon MX700 printer by thoroughly 

    cleaning the print head as follows.   The U052 error REOCCURS after 

    printing on my printer and with the passage of time (i.e. a few days).

    I believe I saw this fix on the Canon Community Forum.

         a. Get a flat bottom container and fill it with a 1/4 inch of warm water

             and put your print head with the print head nozzles pointed down

             in the water.  See print head diagram web link above.

         b. Drip warm water onto the ink supply ports too.

             See print head diagram web link above.

         c. Jiggle the container to jostle the print head to get the

             ink out.

         d. Repeat steps a, b & c until your water remains clear 

            (i.e. no ink remaining).  

         e. I dried my print head with the following: paper towels, 

             setting it under a desk lamp, air drying overnight.

2. With a clean print head I do not get the U052 error.

3. After printing on my printer a dozen color pages successfully-

    1 week later I get the U052 error.   Cleaning the print head 

    per note# 1 above and the U052 error goes away.

Other notes include:

1. I cleaned the print head gold contacts & interfacing pins with

    CRC Electronics Cleaner & Q-tip.   This cleaner is available 

    from an Auto Parts store.   This cleaning did not resolve the

    U052 error.

2. Previously cleaned the print head gold contacts with a pencil

    eraser which resolved my U052 error.   However, a few days

    later the U052 error came back.

[Jim11]

I unpluged the printer, removed the printhead and cleaned the gold contacts with rubbing alcohol. Then I wrapped a piece of 400 grit sandpaper around my finger and lightly sanded the pins inside the printer that contact the printhead. When I put it all back together and powered up the printer the U052 error was gone. We'll see how long it lasts.