Brother Unable to Print 50: Object stuck inside or mechanical fault
Also shows as: Print Unable 50
Brother USA says "Unable to Print 50" appears when a foreign object, such as a paper clip or ripped paper, is stuck in the machine, or when there is a mechanical malfunction.
What to try
- If you have faxes in memory, transfer them to another fax machine first (All Settings > Service > Data Transfer > Fax Transfer; this only works if the Station ID was set before the error).
- Open the scanner cover and check the left and right corners and center for paper scraps.
- Move the print head by hand and look underneath it; if it is parked at the right, press and hold Stop/Exit for at least 5 seconds to move it to the middle.
- Open the Jam Clear Cover on the back, remove any paper or objects, and close it.
- Close the scanner cover; if the message is still there, unplug the machine for about one minute and plug it back in.
- Print a Print Quality Check Sheet to confirm the machine works.
When it needs a technician
If the error comes back after the checks and a power cycle, Brother says the machine will require service.
Which models show Unable to Print 50
Brother documents this code for models including MFC-J650DW.
Varies by model: Brother's older numbered code chart (faq00000168_005, MFC-490CW era) lists code 50 as a paper jam or sensor problem.
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 USA Support - "Unable to Print 50" (MFC-J650DW). Codes are model-specific, so your own model's manual is the final word. Reviewed October 2026.
Still showing Unable to Print 50?
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Ask about my printer — $1Eric Paul Amora · Printer & Hardware Repair Technician