Symptoms
- Paper jam message appears repeatedly
- Paper feeds in crooked or multiple sheets at once
- Torn paper remains stuck inside after clearing a jam
- Jams happen mostly with certain paper types
Likely causes
- CommonPaper loaded incorrectly or overfilled trayPaper that's not squared against the tray guides or a tray that's too full commonly causes jams.
- CommonDamp, curled, or low-quality paperPaper that has absorbed humidity or has curled edges feeds unevenly.
- CommonTorn paper fragment stuck in the rollersA previous incomplete jam clearance can leave a small piece blocking the path.
- PossibleWorn or dirty feed rollersRollers lose grip over time or from dust and paper residue buildup.
- Less commonWrong paper size settingA mismatch between the tray's paper size and the printer's setting can cause misfeeds.
What to do
- Turn off the printer and carefully open all access panels to check for any remaining torn paper before adding new sheets.
- Remove the paper stack, square the edges, and reload it so it sits flush against the tray guides without overfilling.
- Try a fresh ream of paper, especially if the current stack feels damp or has curled edges.
- Fan the paper stack before loading to separate sheets that may be sticking together.
- Clean the feed rollers with a lint-free cloth slightly dampened with water, following the manual's guidance.
- Confirm the paper size/type setting on the printer matches what's actually loaded.
- If jams continue with fresh paper and clean rollers, the rollers themselves may be worn and need replacement.
Tools and parts
- Lint-free cloth
Printer feed roller replacement kitSearch: “printer pickup roller kit”
When to call a pro
If jams persist across different paper types after cleaning the rollers, a technician can replace worn rollers or check the paper path for damage.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.