Ink Low (Error 0x13)MFC-EX670

Fix Brother MFC-EX670 Ink Low 0x13 Error

The 'Ink Low' error code with identifier 0x13 on the Brother MFC-EX670 indicates that the ink management system cannot correctly read the smart chip of one or more cartridges. While often confused with empty cartridges, error 0x13 specifically points to a failure in electronic communication between the print head and the consumable. The primary solution involves reseating the cartridges and cleaning the metallic contacts.

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Common causes

  • 1Oxidation or dirt buildup on the ink compartment contact pins.
  • 2Factory defect in the cartridge smart chip preventing communication.
  • 3Mechanical misalignment preventing full electrical contact between cartridge and reader.
  • 4Minor ink spills in the head area causing temporary sensor short circuits.

Solutions

Quick Diagnosis

Error 0x13 appears when the LCD panel flashes 'Cartridge not detected' after a consumable change. If you have installed new cartridges and the problem remains, the contact between the printer pins and the cartridge chips is blocked by ink residue or dirt.

Step-by-Step Solution

  1. Open the cartridge cover and remove the ink tanks one by one to inspect their metallic contacts.
  2. Clean the gold chips on the cartridge with a clean, dry cloth; do not use alcohol or chemicals that could harm the circuit.
  3. Check the internal pins of the printer (where cartridges click in) to ensure there is no spilled ink or bent pins.
  4. Reinstall the cartridges firmly until you hear a 'click', ensuring each color is in its correct slot according to the color coding.

Prevention and Maintenance

Avoid touching the gold contacts on the cartridge with your fingers, as natural skin oils can create an insulating film that triggers this error. Install cartridges immediately after opening to prevent ink from drying in the nozzle. Keep your firmware updated to ensure compatibility with new ink chips.

When to Call a Technician

If the 0x13 error persists after cleaning the contacts and testing with a new set of cartridges, there may be a fault in the chip detection board. At this point, internal electronic manipulation is not recommended.

Ficha técnica del equipo

  • Technology: INKvestment Tank inkjet printing
  • Ink system: High-capacity sealed cartridges
  • Connectivity: USB, Wi-Fi Direct, Wired LAN
  • Recommended monthly cycle: 2,500 pages
  • Compatible consumables: Brother LC406, LC406XL, LC406XXL series
  • Maintenance: Programmable automatic head cleaning
  • Official drivers / firmware

Steps to follow

  1. 1

    Open compartment

    Open the front cover to access all four ink cartridges.

  2. 2

    Remove and clean

    Remove cartridges and wipe gold chips with a dry cloth.

  3. 3

    Pin inspection

    Verify printer pins are clean and free of ink remnants.

  4. 4

    Reinstallation

    Insert cartridges pressing until the mechanical latch engages.

Frequently asked questions

Not necessarily. Most often it is an issue with dirt on the contacts that can be fixed by simply cleaning the cartridge chip.

Yes, error 0x13 completely halts printer operations and prevents any scanning or printing tasks.

It is more likely with non-original consumables, as third-party chips may not have the exact electronic precision as original Brother chips.

Not recommended. Alcohol can leave residue or damage components if not of high purity. A dry microfiber cloth is sufficient and safe.

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