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Brother Unable to Print 48: Print head problem

Also shows as: Print Unable 48

🧑‍🔧 Needs servicing

In Brother's numbered error chart, code 48 means there is a problem with the print head.

What to try

  1. Unplug the machine and open the scanner cover.
  2. Check under and around the print head for paper scraps or foreign objects and remove them.
  3. Close the cover, plug the machine back in and try again.
  4. If the code returns, contact Brother Customer Service.

When it needs a technician

Brother's chart says code 48 needs Brother Customer Service.

Which models show Unable to Print 48

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

  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 - 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.

Still showing Unable to Print 48?

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Eric Paul Amora · Printer & Hardware Repair Technician

Related Brother codes

Unable to Print 46 — Ink absorber almost fullUnable to Clean 46 — Ink absorber pad fullUnable to Print 4F — Print head problemUnable to Print 30 — Paper jam stopping the machineUnable to Print 31 — Paper jam stopping the machineUnable to Print 32 — Paper jam stopping the machineUnable to Print 36 — Paper jam stopping the machineUnable to Print 6F — Paper jam or sensor problemUnable to Clean 50 — Paper jam or sensor problemUnable to Init 1A — Duplex unit problemUnable to Clean XX — Mechanical problem, debris or dirty encoder stripUnable to Init XX — Machine could not initialize

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