46MFC-T920DW

Brother MFC-T920DW Error 46: How to Fix

The Brother MFC-T920DW error 46 occurs when the internal purge counter reaches its maximum limit, triggering a hard stop to prevent waste ink leakage. This error often surfaces after extensive head cleaning cycles that exhaust the capacity of the internal ink absorbers. Resolving this requires performing a firmware reset via the maintenance menu and, ideally, inspecting the physical waste pads to ensure the printer remains in safe operating condition.

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Common causes

  • 1The internal purge counter has reached the manufacturer's maximum limit.
  • 2Physical saturation of the internal waste ink absorber pads.
  • 3Cumulative ink accumulation due to repeated automatic cleaning cycles.
  • 4Hardware trigger for safety preventing internal component damage.

Solutions

Diagnóstico rápido

Error 46 is a critical firmware safety lock. It signals that the waste ink management system has reached capacity, and the printer must be reset to resume operation.

Solución paso a paso

  1. Disconnect the printer power.
  2. Enter maintenance mode: hold the Start button while reconnecting the power cable until 'MAINTENANCE' shows.
  3. Type 80 on the keypad.
  4. Cycle through the menu with the Start button until you reach the 'PURGE' screen.
  5. Input 2783 to clear the counter to 00000.
  6. Press Stop/Exit, then input 99 to reboot.

Prevención y mantenimiento

Avoid frequent use of the deep cleaning utility through the printer display. Monitor print quality and only perform cleanings when absolutely necessary to extend the life of the absorber pads.

Cuándo llamar a un técnico

If the error persists after resetting, or if there are visible ink leaks at the base of the machine, contact a service professional immediately to prevent short-circuiting the printer's mainboard.

Ficha técnica del equipo

  • Technology: InkBenefit Tank inkjet.
  • Print Speed: Up to 30 ppm (mono) / 26 ppm (color).
  • Connectivity: Wi-Fi, USB 2.0, Ethernet.
  • Tray Capacity: 150 sheets.
  • Compatible Consumables: BTD60BK / BT5001 ink series.
  • Recommended Use: Home office and small business.
  • Drivers and Firmware: Brother Support Site.

Steps to follow

  1. 1

    Enter Maintenance Mode

    With the printer off, press and hold the Start button while plugging in the power cord. Release when 'MAINTENANCE' appears on the screen.

  2. 2

    Access Purge Menu

    Use the keypad to enter 80, then press the Start button repeatedly until 'PURGE' is displayed.

  3. 3

    Reset Counter

    Enter 2783 on the keypad to reset the value to 00000, confirming the purge counter has been cleared.

  4. 4

    Exit and Reboot

    Press the Stop/Exit key, then input 99 to exit maintenance mode and reboot the machine.

Frequently asked questions

This error indicates that the internal ink purge counter has hit its limit to prevent waste ink overflow inside the printer chassis.

No, it is not safe. The machine locks operations to prevent ink leakage that could damage internal sensors and electrical boards.

This is a hardware maintenance error related to the internal ink absorber pads, not the ink bottles or cartridges.

Beyond resetting the firmware counter, you should inspect the felt pads at the bottom of the printer and replace them if they are visibly saturated.

Brother MFC-T920DW Error 46: How to Fix | Vimazdev