ADF (Automatic Document Feeder) paper jam errors occur on HP All-in-One (MFP) printers equipped with an ADF unit for multi-page scanning and copying.
When this error occurs, the printer stops ADF scanning and copying, while flatbed scanning and printing may continue normally.
This Knowledge Base article explains ADF paper jam errors, why they occur, and how to resolve and prevent them in office environments.
ADF paper jam errors indicate that an original document:
Failed to feed correctly into the ADF
Stopped moving between ADF sensors
Exited incorrectly or too slowly
ADF Paper Jam
Document Feeder Jam
Clear Jam in ADF
Original Jammed
ADF Misfeed
These errors apply only to the ADF unit, not the main print paper path.
The ADF mechanism consists of:
Pickup rollers
Separation pad
Feed rollers
Optical paper sensors
Exit rollers
During scanning, the firmware expects the document to:
Trigger the pickup sensor
Pass through feed sensors
Exit within a defined time window
The error occurs when:
Paper slips due to worn rollers
Sensors are dirty or blocked
Paper size or thickness is unsupported
Multiple pages feed together or skew
To avoid tearing originals, the firmware immediately halts operation.
Scanning thin, curled, or glossy paper
Using damaged or stapled documents
High-volume ADF usage
Dust accumulation on rollers
Mixing different paper sizes in ADF
Long periods without ADF maintenance
Open ADF cover gently
Remove paper slowly in feed direction
Check for:
Torn paper pieces
Folded corners
Close ADF cover firmly
⚠ Never pull paper forcefully backward.
Check:
Pickup area
Feed rollers
Exit rollers
Use a flashlight to identify hidden scraps.
Power OFF printer
Open ADF cover
Clean rollers using:
Lint-free cloth
Slightly damp with water
Rotate rollers manually while cleaning
Let dry completely
✔ This resolves most repeat ADF jams.
Ensure documents are:
A4 / Letter size
60–90 GSM
Free of staples, clips, tape
Not wrinkled or curled
Avoid:
Carbon paper
Thermal paper
Glossy sheets
Fan documents before loading
Align edges neatly
Adjust ADF paper guides snugly (not tight)
If jams persist:
ADF rollers are worn
Replace:
Pickup roller
Separation pad
Roller kits are considered consumable parts.
| Symptom | Root Cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Jam on first page | Worn pickup roller | Replace roller |
| Multiple pages feed | Separation pad worn | Replace pad |
| Random ADF jams | Dirty rollers | Clean rollers |
| Jam error with no paper | Sensor blocked | Clean sensor |
| Skewed scans | Paper guides loose | Adjust guides |
Do not scan confidential originals repeatedly after jams
Avoid touching scanner sensors directly
Power OFF before cleaning internal parts
Dispose torn originals securely
Keep ADF covers closed during operation
Clean ADF rollers monthly in high-use environments
Replace rollers at recommended intervals
Use flatbed for delicate originals
Avoid mixed paper types in ADF
Store documents flat before scanning
HP ADF paper jam errors are mechanical feed issues, not firmware or print-path faults.
Routine cleaning, correct document handling, and timely roller replacement resolve nearly all recurring ADF jams.
Proper ADF maintenance ensures reliable scanning and extends scanner life.
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