Replace an ink cartridge
Swapping an ink cartridge on a Brother inkjet is quick — the printer tells you which colour, and the cover auto-opens the carriage. Just don't forget to peel the film.
01 · Identify — does this match what you see?
- “Cannot Detect” or “Ink Empty” after a swap
- Ink level shows empty on a new cartridge
- Cartridge won't click in
02 · Resolve — follow in order
- 1
Leave the printer ON and lift the scanner unit — the carriage moves to the replace position.
- 2
Push down the coloured release lever for the empty cartridge and lift it out.
- 3
On the new cartridge, peel the yellow film/tape off the air vent — leaving it on causes “Cannot Detect”.
- 4
Insert the cartridge colour-side-up and push the lever up until it clicks.
- 5
Close the scanner unit. The printer charges the ink and prints an alignment prompt — accept it.
Pro tip
Only the yellow tape/film comes off. Never remove a clear film on the bottom — peeling it causes ink to leak and the cartridge to fail.