If your Canon printer cannot detect the ink level, you may see warning messages like:
- “Ink level cannot be detected”
- “The following ink cartridge cannot be recognized”
- “Support Code: 1681, 1683, U162, or U163”
This issue is often caused by using refilled or third-party cartridges, disabled ink monitoring, or communication errors between the printer and the cartridge.
Here’s how to fix the problem and restore ink level detection.
1. Understand the Common Causes
| Cause | Description |
|---|---|
| Refilled or 3rd-party cartridges | May lack working chips for ink level detection |
| Disabled monitoring | Ink level warnings were manually disabled earlier |
| Dirty cartridge contacts | Prevents the printer from reading the chip |
| Firmware restrictions | Some printers block non-Canon cartridge chips |
| Defective cartridges or print head | Can cause full detection failure |
2. Restart the Printer
Sometimes a simple restart resets ink monitoring.
- Turn off the printer and unplug it from power
- Wait 30 seconds
- Plug it back in and power it on
- Check the display or utility software to see if ink levels are restored
3. Remove and Reinsert the Ink Cartridges
- Open the printer cover and wait for the ink carriage to stop moving
- Carefully remove each cartridge
- Inspect and clean the metal contacts (copper or gold dots) with a lint-free cloth
- Reinsert each cartridge firmly until it clicks into place
- Close the cover and check for updated ink level status
4. Use Genuine Canon Ink Cartridges
Canon printers are designed to work best with official Canon cartridges. Using third-party or refilled ink may result in:
- Inaccurate or missing ink levels
- Persistent warning messages
- Blocked features like ink monitoring or print quality optimization
Try replacing with a genuine Canon cartridge to test if detection is restored.
5. Override the Ink Level Warning (Bypass)
If you’re using compatible or refilled cartridges and see messages like:
- “The ink level cannot be detected.”
- “Do you want to continue printing?”
You can bypass the warning by holding down a physical button on the printer.
Bypass Procedure (Most Canon Models):
- When the error appears, press and hold the “Stop/Reset” or “Resume” button
- Hold for 5–10 seconds, until the error disappears
- This disables ink level detection, but allows printing to continue
Note: Ink monitoring will remain off for that cartridge until it is replaced.
6. Update or Reinstall Canon Software
On Windows or macOS:
- Visit Canon Support
- Search for your printer model
- Download and install:
- Printer driver
- Canon IJ Printer Assistant Tool
- Canon IJ Network Tool (for networked printers)
After installation, open the Canon utility and check ink levels under Ink Status or Maintenance.
7. Reset the Ink Counter (for Some Canon Models)
Some models allow resetting the ink counter via the maintenance menu:
- Go to Settings > Maintenance > Ink Counter Reset
- Follow the prompts to reset ink detection for a new cartridge
- This is only available on select models (e.g., G-series with refill tanks)
8. Error Code Reference
| Error Code | Meaning | Fix Suggestion |
|---|---|---|
| U162 | Ink level cannot be detected | Hold Stop/Reset to continue without detection |
| U163 | Ink may have run out | Hold Stop/Reset to override warning |
| 1681 | Cartridge not recognized | Reinsert cartridge or use genuine Canon ink |
| 1683 | Incompatible or faulty cartridge | Try replacing with a new cartridge |
9. When to Contact Canon Support
Contact Canon if:
- Ink levels are not detected even with genuine Canon cartridges
- You’ve cleaned contacts and updated software with no success
- The print head may be damaged or the cartridge chip is unreadable
- You receive persistent support codes despite following override steps
Canon can assist with advanced troubleshooting or offer repair options if your printer is under warranty.