30MFC-T920DWHas video

How to Fix Error 30 Paper Jam on Brother MFC-T920DW

Error Code 30 occurs when the printer's sensors detect paper or another mechanical blockage in the print feed track, preventing the carriage assembly from traveling freely along its path.

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Common causes

  • 1Paper jammed under the printhead carriage or inside the roller mechanism.
  • 2Small paper scraps blocking the path of the optical encoder sensor.
  • 3Incorrect paper size or weight loaded in the main paper cassette.

Solutions

Troubleshooting Steps for Error 30

Carefully execute these steps to safely locate and extract jammed media without causing gear misalignment.

Step 1: Remove Paper Tray & Clear the Entrance

  1. Disconnect the power cord from the electrical outlet.
  2. Pull the paper tray completely out of the machine.
  3. Look inside the cavity and use both hands to pull any jammed paper slowly and steadily down and out.

Step 2: Check the Rear Jam Clearance Cover

  1. Turn the printer around and open the Jam Clearance Cover at the back.
  2. Gently pull the jammed paper out of the roller feed.
  3. Close the rear cover securely; a loose cover can trigger the same error code.

Step 3: Inspect the Internal Printhead Area

  1. Lift the scanner cover until it locks securely into position.
  2. Check for small shreds of paper or foreign objects (such as staples) inside the machine corners.
  3. Verify that the printhead can slide easily from left to right when pushed gently by hand.

Steps to follow

  1. 1

    Disconnect Power

    Unplug the AC power cord from the wall outlet to ensure personal safety during mechanical checks.

  2. 2

    Inspect Paper Tray and Front Slots

    Slide out the main paper tray and look for jammed or crumpled paper inside the feeding zone.

  3. 3

    Clear the Rear Exit

    Open the back access hatch and carefully retrieve any stuck media using uniform pressure.

  4. 4

    Verify Carriage Freedom

    Lift the scanner lid, look inside, and ensure the carriage moves manually across the rail without friction.

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Frequently asked questions

A small strip of torn paper could still be blocking the encoder strip (the clear plastic strip behind the printhead). Clean it gently with a dry microfibre cloth.

Yes, dry environments can cause pages to stick together. Fan the paper stack before placing it in the tray to break static adhesion.