Match the symptom, then work through the safe checks.
1. What best matches what you observe?
2. Complete only the checks that are safe for you.
Show stop conditions
- Ink is leaking from the cabinet
- A guide suggests only resetting a hidden counter without physical maintenance
Likely causes
- The waste-ink absorber or maintenance box has reached its limit
- The purge counter indicates service is required
- Ink has accumulated in the internal maintenance area
- A service reset is needed only after the physical maintenance is completed
Quick checks, in order
Stop repeated cleaning cycles
Additional purging sends more ink to the absorber.
Check whether the model has a replaceable maintenance box
Some models expose a user-replaceable part; others require service.
Use Brother support for the exact model
The physical absorber and counter procedure differ.
Do not reset the counter without servicing the ink path
An unserviced absorber can overflow inside the printer.
Does the model have a maintenance box?
Replace it using the model instructions and confirm the message clears.
The printer likely requires service for absorber replacement or cleaning.
Disconnect power and prevent further use until the leak is addressed.
Stop and get qualified help when
- Ink is leaking from the cabinet
- A guide suggests only resetting a hidden counter without physical maintenance
Official support and model manuals
Use the full model number from the rating label. The manufacturer manual is the deciding reference when codes differ by region or product family.
Frequently asked questions
What does Unable to Print 46 mean?
On many Brother inkjet models it indicates that the waste-ink or purge system has reached a service condition.
Can I only reset the purge counter?
Not safely if the absorber is actually saturated. The physical waste-ink capacity must be addressed.