Symptoms
- Printer displays a 'Paper Jam' error message
- Grinding or straining noise as the printer tries to feed paper
- Printer stops mid-print with the page partially out
- Repeated jams even after clearing the visible paper
Likely causes
- CommonPaper stuck in the feed rollers or paper pathA sheet catches on rollers, guides, or the print head area.
- CommonTorn paper left inside from a previous jamA small torn piece left behind can cause repeated jams even after the obvious paper is removed.
- CommonPaper loaded incorrectly or overfilled trayPaper stacked too high, misaligned, or not squared against the guides feeds unevenly.
- PossibleWorn or dirty feed rollersRollers lose grip over time or get dusty, causing paper to skew and jam.
- PossibleUsing paper that's too thick, thin, damp, or damagedNon-standard paper weight or slightly curled/damp sheets jam more easily.
What to do
- Turn off the printer before reaching inside, and open every access panel or door that gives a view of the jam.
- Gently pull the jammed paper in the direction it was already feeding, using both hands and steady, even pressure to avoid tearing it.
- Check the whole paper path, including the tray, rollers, and output area, for small torn scraps left behind.
- Remove the paper tray, square up the remaining stack, and make sure it's not overfilled or exceeding the fill line.
- Check that the paper guides in the tray are snug against the paper, not loose or too tight.
- Wipe the feed rollers with a lint-free cloth lightly dampened with water to restore grip if paper has been slipping or skewing.
- Turn the printer back on and run a test print to confirm the jam is fully cleared.
Tools and parts
- Lint-free cloth
When to call a pro
If jams keep happening after clearing all visible paper and cleaning the rollers, a technician can check for a worn roller or a broken sensor inside the paper path.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.