Canon Support Code 1688: Ink has run out
Also shows as: E16 (LCD code on display-less TS / E models)
✅ Usually fixable yourself
The printer has detected that one or more ink cartridges or tanks are empty.
What to try
- Replace each cartridge or ink tank the printer shows as empty, then close the cover or scanning unit.
- Canon recommends new, genuine Canon ink for best quality.
- If you must keep printing (or scanning or faxing) first, Canon says you can turn off ink-level detection by holding the Stop button for at least 5 seconds.
- Canon warns that printing with no ink may damage the printer and that it is not liable for faults caused by printing in this state.
When it needs a technician
Not a repair issue. Replace the ink.
Which models show 1688
Canon documents this code for models including PIXMA TS3300 series, PIXMA TS3100 series, PIXMA TS6300 series, PIXMA MG3600 series, PIXMA TR4500 series, PIXMA TS5100 series.
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: Canon Inkjet Manual (ij.manual.canon) - TS6300 series, support code 1688. Codes are model-specific, so your own model's manual is the final word. Reviewed October 2026.
Still showing 1688?
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 Canon codes
5100 — Print head / cartridge holder cannot moveB203 — Error that needs a Canon repairB204 — Error that needs a Canon repair6000 — Printer error (check for a paper jam first)1300 — Paper jam (rear tray / output slot)1003 — Out of paper / paper not loaded (front tray or cassette)2110 — Paper settings do not match the cassette2114 — Paper settings do not match the rear tray4103 — Cannot print with current print settings2900 — Print head alignment sheet could not be scanned2700 — Copy or scan timed out after an error3402 — Copy memory is full