Brother Printer Error 04 – 3 Quick Fixes (Step-by-Step Guide)
Seeing Brother Printer Error 04? Learn what it means and fix it fast with 3 simple solutions—clear paper jams, restart properly, and check connections. Plus prevention tips & FAQs.
Introduction
If you own a Brother printer, you know how handy it is for school projects, work reports, and everyday documents. Like any device, though, it can run into problems. Error 04 is a common issue that looks scary at first—but it’s usually easy to fix. In this guide, you’ll learn three simple ways to resolve Brother Printer Error 04 and understand what’s causing it.
What is Error 04 on a Brother Printer?
Error codes help your Brother printer tell you something went wrong. Error 04 typically points to a communication or print-job problem, often caused by:
- A paper jam or misfeed
- A temporary software glitch in the printer
- A connection issue (USB/Wi-Fi) between printer and computer
The good news? It’s usually a quick fix—no advanced tech skills required.
How to Clear Brother Printer Paper Jam Error 04
What Causes Brother Printer Error 04?
Paper Problems
Paper might be stuck or loaded incorrectly, stopping the printer mid-job.
Software Glitch
Like computers, printers run small programs. If they hang or freeze, Error 04 can appear.
Connection Issues
A loose USB cable, the wrong Wi-Fi, or a network hiccup can trigger the error.
Three Simple Solutions for Brother Printer Error 04
- Power off the printer.
- Open the front cover and paper tray; gently remove any jammed paper.
Brother Printer Error 04 on Windows 10/11 - If your model has a rear/back door, check there too.
- Reload paper properly: flat, dry, not folded or curled.
- Power on and try a test print.
If the error disappears, a paper jam was the cause.
2) Restart Your Brother Printer (Power Reset)
- Turn off the printer with the power button.
- Unplug it from power for 30 seconds.
- Plug back in and turn it on.
- Send a test print.
This refresh clears minor software glitches that trigger Error 04.
3) Check Printer Connections
USB (Wired):
- Make sure the USB cable is snug and undamaged.
- Try a different USB port (and cable, if possible).
Wi-Fi (Wireless):
- Confirm the printer is on the correct Wi-Fi network.
- Restart your router if needed.
- On your computer, set the Brother printer as default.
Try printing again. If the error was due to connectivity, it should now be resolved.
Brother Printer Error 04 Won’t Go Away
Bonus Fix: Update Printer Drivers (Recommended)
Outdated drivers can cause recurring error codes.
How to Update
- Go to the official Brother support website.
- Search your exact printer model.
- Download & install the latest driver for your operating system.
- Restart your computer and test print.
How to Prevent Brother Printer Errors
Paper & Hardware Care
- Use good-quality, dry paper; don’t overfill the tray.
- Clean rollers and the paper path periodically.
Software Hygiene
- Keep drivers and firmware updated.
- Restart the printer occasionally to clear minor glitches.
When to Contact Brother Support
If you’ve tried all the fixes and Error 04 persists, the issue may be internal hardware or advanced firmware. Prepare to share:
- Your printer model and error code (04)
- Steps you already tried
- Any unusual noises or warning lights
Brother support can guide further or arrange repair if necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1) What does Brother Printer Error 04 mean?
It usually indicates a communication issue, paper jam, or minor software glitch—and is generally easy to fix at home.
2) How do I fix Error 04 quickly?
Follow the 3 quick fixes:
- Clear paper jams
- Restart the printer
- Check USB/Wi-Fi connections
3) Can I fix Error 04 without calling support?
Yes. In most cases these steps resolve it. Contact support only if the error doesn’t clear.
4) Why do error codes keep appearing?
Common reasons: paper issues, outdated drivers, or loose/incorrect connections. Good paper, regular cleaning, and updates help prevent them.
5) Is Error 04 serious?
Typically no. Unlike hardware failures, it’s usually a minor, fixable issue.
Disclaimer
This guide offers general troubleshooting. Steps may vary by model. Always refer to your official Brother user manual. If you’re unsure or the issue persists, contact Brother customer support or a certified technician.
Conclusion
Brother printers are reliable, and Error 04 is usually nothing major. With three quick steps—clear jams, power reset, and verify connections—you can often fix it in minutes. Keep your printer clean, use quality paper, and update drivers to prevent future hiccups. If all else fails, Brother support is there to help.
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