e4Smart Tank Plus 651

HP Smart Tank Plus 651 Error E4: Carriage Jam

The HP Smart Tank Plus 651 error E4 identifies a mechanical obstruction preventing the print carriage from completing its usual path. Upon detecting resistance, the printer automatically locks to prevent damage to the printheads and the main motor. This issue is relatively common if small particles, such as staples, labels, or crumpled paper, interfere with the rail guide or the service station.

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Common causes

  • 1Physical jam from label or paper debris in the rail.
  • 2Excessive friction on the rail guide due to accumulated dirt.
  • 3Obstruction in the printhead service station.
  • 4Wear of the carriage drive mechanism.

Solutions

Quick Diagnostics

The E4 error appears when the printer emits a squeak or sharp thud followed by a carriage lock. If you notice that upon opening the cover the carriage is not in its home position, the diagnostic confirms an obstruction in the printhead movement area.

Step-by-step Solution

  1. Disconnect the printer from power so the carriage is free to move manually.
  2. Gently move the print carriage from right to left while observing for paper scraps beneath.
  3. Clean the metal rail guide with a dry cloth to remove dried ink residues that create friction.
  4. Check the service station (where the printheads rest) for any jammed label scraps.

Prevention and Maintenance

Do not attempt to print labels that are not suitable for inkjet printing, as adhesive residue is the leading cause of E4 errors. Clean the interior of the print area monthly.

When to call a technician

If after cleaning the rail and verifying there are no paper scraps, the E4 error persists, the print carriage motor might have suffered strain requiring professional replacement.

Device Technical Specs

  • Technology: Thermal inkjet (Refillable tanks)
  • Connectivity: Wi-Fi / Bluetooth
  • Speed: Up to 11 ppm (black)
  • Compatible consumables: GT51/GT52 ink bottles, Printheads M0H50A/M0H51A
  • Recommended use: Home, small offices
  • Official drivers / firmware

Steps to follow

  1. 1

    Power off

    Disconnect the printer before performing any manual movement of the carriage.

  2. 2

    Check obstacles

    Open the cover and check that there are no paper scraps or labels jammed.

  3. 3

    Clean rail

    Gently clean the rail with a clean cloth to remove dried ink residues.

Frequently asked questions

The E4 indicates that the print carriage is jammed and cannot move correctly along its rail.

External lubricants are not recommended unless they are printer-specific products to avoid attracting dust.

This model uses replaceable printheads and refillable ink tanks (GT51/GT52 series).

It can occur if poorly adhered labels or paper scraps are introduced, obstructing the carriage path.