Identify the obstruction before restarting
The source shows an actual torn sheet obstructing the carriage and an E3 code. E3 identifies a carriage obstruction; it is not proof that every E3 error has the same piece of paper in the same place.
Keep the printer level. Do not open the printhead latch just to search for a paper jam, and do not use tweezers, pliers or other sharp tools.
Step 1:Check the rear input tray first
Remove loose paper from the input tray so you can see the blocked sheet. If a jammed sheet is accessible, hold it with both hands and pull it straight out gently. Do not remove the input-tray shield.
If the sheet tears, keep the pieces and look for what is missing. The source’s first pull tears the page, so the next check is for remaining fragments rather than immediately loading more paper.
Step 2:Inspect the accessible front area
Retract the output-tray extender and open the front door. Look for loose paper that is reachable without pushing against ink tubes, the carriage or other components. Remove accessible fragments gently; do not force a stuck mechanism or reach into an obstructed path.
Check the sheet pieces against the original page. If paper is inaccessible, stop and use the location-specific instructions in HP’s manual or obtain service help. The printer’s bottom-access procedure has additional ink-spill and cover precautions; this guide does not replace those instructions.
Step 3:Close the printer and check its state
Make sure the printhead cover remains closed, then close the front door and extend the output tray. Reconnect power and turn the printer on. Read the display before sending another job.
The recording clears its E3 indication after the paper is removed and the printer finishes a shutdown/restart. That is an observed result, not proof that restarting removes a remaining obstruction. If the error persists, stop and recheck the reported condition rather than repeatedly cycling power.
Step 4:Reload and check one page
Load supported paper without pushing it too far into the rear tray, adjust the width guide to its edge and try one page. Confirm that the sheet feeds fully and the error does not return. Seek HP support if the carriage remains blocked or the jam recurs.
