Canon error 5100
The cartridge holder (carriage) cannot move from side to side. Something is blocking it.
How to fix it
- Turn the printer off and unplug it.
- Open the top cover and look for jammed paper, paper scraps, packing tape or orange shipping material.
- Gently slide the cartridge holder left and right by hand. It should move freely.
- Check the thin clear plastic strip behind the carriage (the encoder strip). If it is smudged with ink, wipe it gently with a dry tissue.
- Make sure every ink cartridge is pushed down fully, then close the cover and turn the printer on.
Is it worth fixing?
Usually fixable in five minutes once the obstruction is gone. If the carriage feels stuck with nothing in the way, the motor or belt has failed.