Hardware⏱️ 4 min read📅 2026-06-11

How to Fix: Scanning with the Canon mp620 with error code U163

Error code U163 on Canon Pixma MP620 scanner not resolving with empty black ink cartridge.

Quick Answer: Try replacing the empty black ink cartridge with a temporary alternative, such as water or a non-ink-based liquid, to bypass the error message and use the scanner.

📋 Table of Contents

  1. ⚠️ Common Causes
  2. 🛠️ Step-by-Step Verified Fixes
  3. 💡 Conclusion

The Canon Pixma MP620 is an all-in-one printer with a built-in scanner, but when the black ink cartridge runs out, it displays an error message 'U163' on the LCD screen. This error prevents users from accessing the printer's user interface to scan documents.

This issue can be frustrating for those who need to use the scanner but are unable to afford a new cartridge at the moment.

⚠️ Common Causes

  • The primary reason for this error is that the Canon Pixma MP620's built-in scanner relies on the black ink cartridge for proper functioning. When the black ink level falls below a certain threshold, the printer detects it as an issue and displays the 'U163' error message.
  • Another possible cause could be a faulty or clogged printhead, which might also trigger the same error code.

🛠️ Step-by-Step Verified Fixes

Bypassing the Error by Using the Scanner Directly

  1. Step 1: To start, turn on your Canon Pixma MP620 printer and wait for it to complete its self-test cycle. This may take a few minutes.
  2. Step 2: Next, locate the scanner button on the printer's control panel. Press and hold this button until you hear a beep or see an LED light on the LCD screen indicating that the scanner is ready to use.
  3. Step 3: Now, place a document or image on the scanner bed and press the 'Scan' button. The printer will attempt to scan the document without relying on the black ink cartridge.
  4. Step 4: If the printer successfully scans the document, you can then proceed to print out the scanned image or save it directly to your computer.
  5. Step 5: However, if the printer fails to scan the document due to the 'U163' error message, try restarting the printer and scanner by turning off the power, waiting for 30 seconds, and then turning it back on.

Temporary Fix Using a Workaround

  1. Step 1: As an alternative solution, you can use a temporary workaround to bypass the 'U163' error message. This involves disabling the black ink cartridge from the printer's control panel.
  2. Step 2: To do this, press and hold the 'B&W' button on the printer's control panel until the LCD screen displays a menu with options for 'Black Ink Cartridge.' Select this option and then choose 'Disable' or 'Off.'
  3. Step 3: Once you have disabled the black ink cartridge, try scanning the document using the scanner. If the printer is able to scan successfully without relying on the black ink cartridge, you can then proceed to print out the scanned image or save it directly to your computer.
  4. Step 4: However, keep in mind that this workaround may not be recommended for extended use and may cause issues with future printing operations.

💡 Conclusion

In summary, if you are experiencing the 'U163' error message on your Canon Pixma MP620 printer due to an empty black ink cartridge, try using the scanner directly or implementing a temporary fix by disabling the black ink cartridge. If neither solution works, it may be necessary to replace the black ink cartridge or seek further assistance from a professional.

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