my tr8620a just shows 'error 6000' on the screen and won't print anything, what is this?

Diagnosis

Error 6000 on the Canon PIXMA TR8620a is a critical paper feed mechanism failure. Unlike a standard "Paper Jam" error (which usually lets you clear the paper and press a button to resume), Error 6000 indicates that the printer's internal sensors detect a blockage or a mechanical misalignment that prevents the paper rollers from rotating freely. This is often caused by a "phantom jam"—a tiny scrap of torn paper, a staple, or a paperclip that has fallen into the feed slot and is obstructing the pick-up rollers. The error occurs because the printer performs a self-test of the drive motor during the power-on sequence. If the motor encounters too much resistance (torque overload) while trying to engage the rollers, the firmware triggers the 6000 code to prevent the motor from burning out. You can confirm this by listening for a repetitive "clicking" or "grinding" sound immediately before the error message appears on the LCD screen, which indicates the gear is slipping because the roller is stuck.

How to Fix It

To resolve a 6000 error, you must perform a deep mechanical clear of the paper path. Follow these exact steps:

1. Power off the printer using the power button and physically unplug the power cord from the wall outlet to discharge the capacitors.
2. Pull the paper cassette completely out of the front slot. Look inside the cavity with a flashlight; check specifically for any curled pieces of paper or foreign objects (coins, hair ties) resting on the bottom of the tray area.
3. Open the rear chassis cover (the back panel). Reach inside and feel for any resistance in the rollers. If you find a piece of paper, pull it out slowly in the direction of the paper path to avoid tearing it further.
4. Open the scanning unit/cover to access the ink carriage area. Gently move the carriage to the center. Check the area around the encoder strip (the clear plastic strip running across the width) for any debris or ink splotches that might be confusing the sensor.
5. Locate the grey plastic tabs on the underside of the carriage assembly and lift them slightly to check for jammed scraps of paper beneath the print head.
6. Close all covers and reinsert the paper cassette, ensuring the paper guides are snug against the paper stack but not crushing it.
7. Plug the printer back in and power it on. If the error persists, perform a "Hard Reset" by holding the power button for 10 seconds while the unit is unplugged, then plugging it back in.

If That Didn't Work

• Clean the Pick-Up Rollers: Use a lint-free cloth lightly dampened with distilled water to wipe the rubber pick-up rollers located in the paper cassette area. If the rollers are coated in paper dust (white powder), they will slip, causing the printer to think there is a jam when there isn't.
• Check for "Ghost" Jams in the Rear Tray: If you use the rear feed for photo paper, check the narrow slot at the top back of the machine. Use a can of compressed air to blow out any dust or debris that may be triggering the optical sensor.
• Reset the Encoder Strip: If a smudge of grease or ink is on the clear plastic encoder strip, the printer may misread the carriage position and trigger a 6000 error. Carefully wipe the strip with a dry, lint-free cotton swab. Do not use alcohol, as it can strip the markings off the strip.
• Inspect the Paper Guides: Ensure the paper guides in the cassette are clicked firmly into the notches. If the guides are slightly off-center, the paper feeds at an angle, causing the rollers to bind and trigger the error.

Heads Up

• Never use tweezers or metal pliers to remove paper jams; you risk scratching the rollers or puncturing the encoder strip, which will lead to permanent print misalignment.
• Avoid using "cheap" or ultra-thin paper (below 60 gsm) in the TR8620a, as these are prone to curling and tearing, which is the leading cause of Error 6000.
• If you are printing heavy cardstock, always use the rear tray rather than the cassette to reduce the stress on the drive motors.
• Keep the printer in a dust-free environment; accumulated dust on the internal sensors can mimic a paper jam error.