• ×
    Information
    Need Windows 11 help?
    Check documents on compatibility, FAQs, upgrade information and available fixes.
    Windows 11 Support Center.
  • post a message
  • ×
    Information
    Need Windows 11 help?
    Check documents on compatibility, FAQs, upgrade information and available fixes.
    Windows 11 Support Center.
  • post a message
Guidelines
Here is the solution for Blue screen error 83C0000B on HP OfficeJet Pro 8010e, 9020e Printer Series: Click here to view.
Check some of the most frequent questions about Instant Ink: HP INSTANT INK, HP+ PLANS: INK AND TONER.


Check out our Black or Color Ink Not Printing, Other Print Quality Issues info about: Print quality and Cartridge Issues.

‎10-11-2025 12:17 PM

HP Recommended

Code E3 Cartidge carriage stalled

Reply
1 REPLY 1

‎10-14-2025 12:46 PM

HP Recommended

Hi @Lonodo,

Welcome to the HP Support Community.
 

Thank you for posting your query. I will be glad to help you.

Seeing an E3 error on your HP printer, especially when you're in the middle of something important, can feel like the printer is throwing up its hands in frustration. But don’t worry, we’ll walk through this together and get that cartridge carriage moving again.

The E3 error indicates a cartridge carriage stall; the part of the printer that holds the ink cartridges is stuck or unable to move properly. This can happen due to:

  • Paper jams
  • Obstructions inside the printer
  • Misaligned cartridges
  • Mechanical issues


Steps to Fix the E3 Cartridge Carriage Stalled Error

Here’s the official HP support guide:
👉 HP Printers - Carriage jam or E3 error | HP® Support

Step-by-Step Fix

  1. Turn Off the Printer
    • Press the power button to turn off the printer.
    • Unplug the power cord from the printer and the wall outlet.
       
  2. Open the Cartridge Access Door
    • Gently open the front cover and then the cartridge access door.
    • Look for any loose paper, labels, or debris that might be blocking the carriage.
       
  3. Manually Move the Carriage
    • Try sliding the carriage gently from side to side.
    • Do not force it if it’s stuck; forcing it can damage the printer.
       
  4. Check Cartridge Installation
    • Remove and reinsert the cartridges to ensure they’re seated properly.
    • Make sure no protective tape is left on the cartridge.
       
  5. Close All Doors and Reconnect Power
    • Close the cartridge access door and front cover.
    • Plug the printer back in and turn it on.
       
  6. Try a Test Print
    • If the printer starts up without the error, try printing a test page.

 

I hope this helps.

 

Take care and have an amazing day!
 

Did we resolve the issue? If yes, please consider marking this post as "Accepted Solution" and click "Yes" to give us a helpful vote - your feedback keeps us going!

 

Regards,

VikramTheGreat

Reply
Was this reply helpful? Yes No
Warning
Be alert for scammers posting fake support phone numbers and/or email addresses on the community.
If you think you have received a fake HP Support message, please report it to us by clicking on "Flag Post".
† The opinions expressed above are the personal opinions of the authors, not of HP. By using this site, you accept the Terms of Use and Rules of Participation.
Didn't find what you were looking for? Ask the community
† The opinions expressed above are the personal opinions of the authors, not of HP. By using this site, you accept the <a href="https://www8.hp.com/us/en/terms-of-use.html" class="udrlinesmall">Terms of Use</a> and <a href="/t5/custom/page/page-id/hp.rulespage" class="udrlinesmall"> Rules of Participation</a>.