Brother No Ink Cartridge: Ink cartridge not installed properly
✅ Usually fixable yourself
Brother says "No Ink Cartridge" is displayed when an ink cartridge is not installed properly.
What to try
- Open the ink cartridge cover.
- Take out the cartridge shown.
- Reinstall it slowly until it clicks into place.
- Close the cover.
When it needs a technician
Brother lists no service step for this message.
Which models show No Ink Cartridge
Brother documents this code for models including MFC-J491DW, MFC-J497DW, MFC-J690DW, MFC-J805DW, MFC-J815DW, MFC-J895DW, MFC-J995DW.
First steps for any printer error
- Write down the exact code before you do anything else — similar-looking codes often mean completely different things.
- Power the printer off, unplug it for a couple of minutes, then power it back on. A surprising number of transient errors clear here.
- Open the covers and check for paper scraps, packaging material, or anything blocking the carriage.
- Check the cartridges or tanks are genuine, correctly seated, and not empty.
- Confirm the printer is plugged directly into a wall outlet, not a power strip or extension lead.
- Check your model’s own manual — codes are model-specific, and the manual is the authority for your machine.
Source: Brother Support FAQ - No Ink Cartridge (MFC-J995DW). Codes are model-specific, so your own model's manual is the final word. Reviewed October 2026.
Still showing No Ink Cartridge?
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.
Ask about my printer — $1Eric 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 emptyInk Low — Ink cartridge running lowUnable to Print 46 — Ink absorber almost fullUnable to Clean 46 — Ink absorber pad full