If your Brother printer isn't printing, don't panic. Most issues have simple solutions that you can try at home. This guide covers the most common Brother printer problems and their quick fixes.
Quick Diagnostic Steps
Before diving into specific solutions, check these basics:
- Is the printer powered on?
- Are there any error lights or messages?
- Is the printer connected (USB or network)?
- Is there paper in the tray?
- Are ink/toner levels adequate?
Common Brother Printer Issues
1. Brother Printer Offline
If your Brother printer shows as offline:
- Go to Windows Settings > Devices > Printers
- Right-click your Brother printer
- Select "Use printer online"
- If that doesn't work, restart the print spooler service
2. Print Jobs Stuck in Queue
When print jobs get stuck:
- Open Control Panel > Devices and Printers
- Right-click your Brother printer > See what's printing
- Click "Printer" > "Cancel All Documents"
- Restart the printer
3. Network Connection Issues
For wireless Brother printers:
- Verify printer and computer are on the same network
- Check the printer's IP address hasn't changed
- Re-add the printer using its IP address
- Restart your router if needed
4. Driver Problems
Outdated or corrupted drivers can prevent printing:
- Visit Brother's support website
- Download the latest drivers for your model
- Uninstall old drivers first
- Install new drivers and restart
Brother-Specific Solutions
Using Brother iPrint&Scan
The Brother iPrint&Scan app can help diagnose issues:
- Check printer status
- View error messages
- Run maintenance tasks
- Update firmware
Brother Printer Reset
If nothing else works, try resetting your Brother printer:
- Turn off the printer
- Unplug it for 30 seconds
- While unplugged, hold the power button for 10 seconds
- Plug it back in and turn it on
- Reconfigure network settings if needed
Error Light Indicators
Brother printers use LED lights to indicate status:
- Solid green: Ready to print
- Flashing orange: Error or attention needed
- Red light: Serious error, check manual
- No light: Power issue
Paper and Ink Issues
Common material-related problems:
- Paper jams - remove carefully in direction of paper flow
- Low ink/toner - replace cartridges
- Wrong paper type - use recommended paper
- Paper size mismatch - check settings
Advanced Troubleshooting
If basic fixes don't work:
- Update printer firmware
- Reset network settings
- Clear printer memory
- Restore factory defaults (last resort)
Prevention Tips
- Keep drivers and firmware updated
- Use genuine Brother supplies
- Perform regular maintenance
- Clean print heads regularly
- Don't let ink/toner run completely dry
Need Professional Help?
If your Brother printer still won't print after trying these solutions, our expert technicians can help. We specialize in Brother printer troubleshooting and can resolve even complex issues. Call us at +1-888-423-7757 for immediate assistance.