Epson Printer Error 0x97 (Call USA/CA: +1-804-460-7160) is a common issue that usually appears due to internal hardware problems, motherboard failure, firmware glitches, or printer communication errors. This error often occurs suddenly while printing and may stop the printer from functioning completely.

Although the message may look serious, many users can fix the problem at home using simple troubleshooting methods. In this guide, you will learn step-by-step solutions to resolve Epson Printer Error 0x97 quickly.

What Causes Epson Printer Error 0x97?

Several issues can trigger Error 0x97 in Epson printers, including:

  • Internal hardware malfunction
  • Corrupted printer firmware
  • Motherboard communication errors
  • Dust or debris inside the printer
  • Driver conflicts
  • Power supply problems
  • Incomplete printer updates

This error is more common in Epson Workforce series printers, but it may also appear on other Epson models.

Restart the Epson Printer

A temporary printer malfunction can sometimes trigger Error 0x97. Restarting the printer may clear the issue.

Steps to Restart the Printer

  1. Turn off the Epson printer.
  2. Disconnect all USB and network cables.
  3. Unplug the power cable from the wall outlet.
  4. Wait for about 5 minutes.
  5. Press and hold the power button for 30 seconds.
  6. Reconnect the power cable and turn the printer back on.

Now check whether the error message still appears.

Disconnect All External Devices

Connected devices may interfere with printer communication.

What to Do

  • Remove USB drives or memory cards from the printer.
  • Disconnect extra cables not required for printing.
  • Keep only the power cable connected while testing the printer.

This helps identify whether an external connection is causing the problem.

Clean the Epson Printer Internally

Dust accumulation inside the printer can create hardware communication issues.

Cleaning Steps

  1. Turn off and unplug the printer.
  2. Open the printer cover carefully.
  3. Use compressed air or a soft cloth to remove dust.
  4. Clean around the printhead and rollers gently.
  5. Close the cover securely.

Avoid touching sensitive printer components directly.

Check for Paper Jams

Even small pieces of paper stuck inside the printer can trigger Epson Printer Error 0x97.

Steps

  • Inspect the paper tray and rear access area.
  • Remove any torn paper carefully.
  • Check around the rollers and carriage path.
  • Restart the printer after clearing debris.

Make sure paper is loaded correctly before printing again.

Update or Reinstall Printer Drivers

Corrupted or outdated printer drivers can create communication problems between the printer and computer.

Update Epson Drivers

  1. Open Device Manager on your computer.
  2. Expand the Printers section.
  3. Right-click your Epson printer.
  4. Select Update Driver.

Reinstall the Driver

If updating does not help:

  1. Remove the Epson printer from your computer.
  2. Uninstall the existing driver completely.
  3. Restart the computer.
  4. Install the latest Epson printer driver again.

Fresh drivers can solve many Epson printer errors.

Run the Printer Troubleshooter

Windows provides a built-in troubleshooting tool for printer problems.

Steps

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Go to Update & Security.
  3. Click Troubleshoot.
  4. Select Printer.
  5. Run the troubleshooter and follow the instructions.

The system may automatically detect and repair printer issues.

Update Printer Firmware

Outdated firmware may cause internal printer communication errors.

Updating the Epson printer firmware can improve performance and remove bugs related to Error 0x97. Make sure the printer remains powered on during the update process.

Reset the Epson Printer

If the error still appears, resetting the printer may help restore default settings.

Basic Reset Steps

  1. Turn off the printer.
  2. Disconnect the power cable.
  3. Wait a few minutes.
  4. Reconnect the cable and restart the printer.

Some Epson models also include a reset button or maintenance mode option.

When Professional Repair Is Needed

If none of the solutions work, the printer may have a serious hardware problem such as:

  • Faulty motherboard
  • Damaged printhead
  • Power supply failure
  • Internal circuit malfunction

In such cases, professional servicing may be required.

Final Words

Epson Printer Error 0x97 can interrupt printing tasks, but in many cases the problem can be fixed with simple troubleshooting steps. Restarting the printer, cleaning internal components, checking for paper jams, and reinstalling drivers are often enough to remove the error.

Regular printer maintenance and software updates can also help prevent future Epson printer problems and keep your device running smoothly.