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Brother Ink Low: Ink cartridge running low

✅ Usually fixable yourself

Brother says "Ink Low" means one or more ink cartridges are near the end of their life. You can keep printing and copying until the display asks you to replace the cartridge.

What to try

  1. Keep printing until the display shows "Cannot Print. Replace Ink Cartridge".
  2. Order the cartridge shown, using genuine Brother ink.
  3. Note that while Ink Low shows, color faxes are received in black and white.

When it needs a technician

Brother lists no service step for this warning.

Which models show Ink Low

Brother documents this code for models including MFC-J491DW, MFC-J497DW, MFC-J480DW, MFC-J680DW, MFC-J5845DW, MFC-J6945DW, MFC-J995DW.

First steps for any printer error

  1. Write down the exact code before you do anything else — similar-looking codes often mean completely different things.
  2. Power the printer off, unplug it for a couple of minutes, then power it back on. A surprising number of transient errors clear here.
  3. Open the covers and check for paper scraps, packaging material, or anything blocking the carriage.
  4. Check the cartridges or tanks are genuine, correctly seated, and not empty.
  5. Confirm the printer is plugged directly into a wall outlet, not a power strip or extension lead.
  6. Check your model’s own manual — codes are model-specific, and the manual is the authority for your machine.

Source: Brother Support FAQ - Ink Low (MFC-J995DW). Codes are model-specific, so your own model's manual is the final word. Reviewed October 2026.

Still showing Ink Low?

Tell our printer technician your model and what you've tried. You'll find out whether it's fixable at home or worth repairing at all.

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Eric Paul Amora · Printer & Hardware Repair Technician

Related Brother codes

Unable to Print XX — Mechanical problem or object insideUnable to Scan XX — Scanner mechanical problemInk Absorber Full — Ink absorber box needs replacingInk Absorber Near Full — Ink absorber box nearly fullCannot Detect — Cartridge not detectedCover is Open — A cover is not fully closedNo Paper Fed — Inkjet did not pick up paperPaper Jam — Inkjet paper jam (Jam A, B or C)Replace Ink — Ink cartridge emptyNo Ink Cartridge — Ink cartridge not installed properlyUnable to Print 46 — Ink absorber almost fullUnable to Clean 46 — Ink absorber pad full

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