Brother Unable to Print 30: Paper jam stopping the machine
Also shows as: Print Unable 30
In Brother's numbered error chart, codes 30 through 3F mean the machine cannot work because of a paper jam.
What to try
- Unplug the machine and lift the scanner cover.
- Remove any jammed paper or scraps, including under the print head and in the left and right corners (a flashlight helps).
- Do not touch the clear encoder strip in front of the white band.
- Close the cover and plug the machine back in.
- If the message continues, clean the encoder strip gently with a dry lint-free cloth as Brother describes.
When it needs a technician
If the message keeps returning after the jam and encoder strip steps, Brother says the machine requires repair.
Which models show Unable to Print 30
Brother documents this code for models including MFC-490CW, MFC-290C, MFC-5890CN, MFC-6490CW, MFC-790CW, MFC-990CW, DCP-385C, DCP-6690CW.
Varies by model: Brother's numbered code chart comes from inkjet models of roughly 2008-2010. On newer inkjets Brother treats the number as a variable ("Unable to Print XX") and gives the same general fix, so the exact meaning of a number can differ by model.
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 - The LCD displays an error code (number). What does it mean? (faq00000168_005). Codes are model-specific, so your own model's manual is the final word. Reviewed October 2026.
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Ask about my printer — $1Eric Paul Amora · Printer & Hardware Repair Technician