1403MAXIFY GX5020

Canon MAXIFY GX5020 error 1403: Printhead movement fix

The Canon MAXIFY GX5020 error 1403 relates to carriage position sensing. When the carriage cannot return to its home position or move accurately across the platen, the system triggers this error to avoid mechanical damage. If your Canon MAXIFY GX5020 error 1403 is persistent, a clean maintenance environment is your best solution. Efficient carriage travel is critical for clear, professional-grade prints.

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Common causes

  • 1Debris blocking the carriage path.
  • 2Contaminated or scratched encoder strip (positioning sensor).
  • 3Print carriage rail lubrication has worn off.
  • 4Carriage drive motor malfunction.

Solutions

Quick Diagnosis

The error occurs when the sensor reports an unexpected carriage stop. Check for any physical blockage, such as stray labels or paper scraps inside the print path.

Step-by-Step Solution

  1. Disconnect the power cord from the wall outlet.
  2. Lift the top cover and check for any paper debris hindering movement.
  3. Gently slide the carriage from left to right; it should glide smoothly.
  4. Clean the transparent encoder strip (located behind the carriage) using a lint-free cloth.
  5. Close the cover and power the unit back on.

Prevention and Maintenance

Keep the printer interior dust-free. The encoder strip is vital for tracking carriage movement; treat it with extreme care as it can be easily damaged by heavy scrubbing.

When to Call a Technician

If physical obstruction has been ruled out and cleaning the encoder strip fails, the carriage motor may be failing or the tracking sensor may need replacement.

Technical Specifications

  • Technology: Inkjet (MEGA TANK)
  • Performance: Productivity driven
  • Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB
  • Capacity: 250-sheet tray
  • Consumable: GI-26 Ink bottles
  • Recommended Use: Enterprise & small office
  • Official Drivers / firmware

Steps to follow

  1. 1

    Visual inspection

    Open the top cover and ensure the carriage moves freely.

  2. 2

    Clean track

    Wipe the rail the carriage moves along to remove dust.

  3. 3

    Sensor reset

    Power off, verify carriage position, and restart the printer.

Frequently asked questions

It signals a print carriage positioning error, often linked to movement obstructions or sensor dirt.

Yes, clearing debris or cleaning the encoder strip often fixes this issue.

The printer uses GI-26 ink bottles and series-specific printheads.

Keep the interior free of paper scraps and avoid overfilling the paper trays.