How To Reset Samsung Ml-2165 Printer
This is the most common reset for ML-2165 owners who refill toner cartridges. The printer uses a drum and toner chip, but this button sequence bypasses the chip warning.
Steps:
Alternative sequence (if the above fails):
Verification: Print a configuration page. On Windows, go to Printer Properties → General → Print Test Page. The toner level should now show as “Full” or no longer display a low toner warning.
Resetting a Samsung ML-2165 printer is not a single action but a set of tools. For 90% of users, the solution is Method 1 (toner chip override using the Cancel button). If the printer is behaving erratically, use Method 2 (factory reset). And if it is completely frozen, always start with Method 5 (deep power cycle).
The ML-2165 is a workhorse, but its aggressive page counting and sensor sensitivity mean you will likely need to reset it multiple times over its life. Bookmark this guide – the next time your printer flashes a false "Toner Empty" warning in the middle of a critical print job, you will know exactly how to bring it back to life in under two minutes.
Pro Tip: Print a copy of this article (once your printer is working!) and keep it near the machine. The button sequences are easy to forget, but having them on hand will save you hours of frustration.
Disclaimer: Resetting the toner counter may void your warranty if you use third-party cartridges. However, the ML-2165 is an older model, and most manufacturers no longer support it. Always use genuine Samsung/HP toner for optimal results, but if you choose compatible cartridges, resetting is often necessary.
Resetting a Samsung ML-2165 printer is typically done to clear persistent error states, such as "Toner Exhausted" or paper jam alerts that remain after the physical issue is resolved. Because this model lacks a full LCD screen and numeric keypad, the reset process relies on specific button sequences or entering a hidden "Tech Mode" via software-style interactions. Reset Methods for Samsung ML-2165 Soft Reset (Clear Errors):
To clear temporary glitches or a stuck "Paper Jam" message, turn the printer off and unplug it from the wall for at least 5 minutes. This discharges residual electricity and can reset the internal sensor state. Factory Reset via Control Panel:
On many compact Samsung laser models like the ML-2165, you can initiate a reset by holding the Stop/Cancel
button for approximately 10–15 seconds until the LEDs flash rapidly, then releasing the button and restarting the device. Toner Chip Reset (Advanced):
If the printer is "locked" because it doesn't recognize a refilled cartridge, users often perform a firmware "fix". This involves starting the printer in a special service mode (holding a button while powering on) and running a "fix" file from a connected computer to bypass the chip requirement. Tech Menu Access: how to reset samsung ml-2165 printer
For models with slightly more advanced interfaces, a "Tech Menu" is often accessed by a rapid sequence of key presses (e.g., ) to find the Clear All Memory Data Setup JustAnswer Steps to Resolve a Stuck Paper Jam Error
If you are resetting to clear a paper jam message when no paper is visible: Power Down: Turn off and unplug the printer. Inspect Paths:
Open the top cover, remove the toner cartridge, and check the fuser area (Caution: may be hot). Reseat Components:
Reinsert the toner cartridge and ensure all covers are closed firmly to trigger the sensor re-home.
Plug back in and restart; the printer should run a self-test and clear the error. JustAnswer Further Exploration Read a technical guide on Samsung Printer Reset & Error Codes
which covers common codes like 13.x (paper jam) and 14.x (toner error). View a detailed video tutorial on Performing a Fix Firmware Reset for printers blocked by toner chips. Consult the official HP/Samsung Support page for physical clearing of internal paper jams. replace the toner chip specifically?
How to Fix Samsung ML-2151N Printer Displaying Paper Jam2 Error
Resetting a Samsung ML-2165 printer Go to product viewer dialog for this item.
can address issues like false "toner empty" alerts, firmware glitches, or connectivity errors. Because this model lacks a full LCD control panel, resets are primarily handled through physical button combinations or external software. Method 1: Resetting the Toner Counter
This is the most common reset used when the printer displays a flashing light or "toner empty" message even after a new cartridge is installed.
Ready State: Ensure the printer is powered on and the "Ready" light is solid green.
Hold the Button: Press and hold the Print Screen or WPS button (located above the power button). This is the most common reset for ML-2165
Observe the LEDs: Hold the button for approximately 10–15 seconds until the LED indicator stays solid green, then release it.
Verify: The printer should reset its internal counter, often clearing false low-toner warnings. Method 2: Standard Power Cycle (Soft Reset)
A power cycle is the first step recommended for resolving communication errors or flashing power/WPS lights. Turn off the printer using the power button.
Unplug the power cord from the wall outlet and the back of the device.
Wait for at least 5 minutes to allow internal capacitors to discharge fully.
Reconnect the power and turn the machine back on to restore normal operation. Method 3: Firmware Reset (Advanced)
For persistent software issues or to bypass chip requirements on refilled cartridges, a firmware reset may be necessary. This typically involves using a computer and a USB connection.
Resetting your Samsung ML-2165 printer is the most effective way to clear persistent error lights, fix communication issues, or bypass "toner empty" alerts that prevent printing. Depending on your goal, you can perform a simple power cycle, a factory reset of the internal settings, or a chip counter reset for refilled cartridges. 1. The Simple Power Cycle (Soft Reset)
Before trying advanced methods, perform a soft reset to clear the printer's temporary memory and resolve minor glitches like a blinking red light or a frozen print queue. Turn off the printer using the Power button.
Unplug the power cord from the wall outlet for at least 30 seconds. Plug the cord back in and power on the device. 2. Factory Reset (System Restore)
A factory reset returns all settings—including network configurations for the ML-2165W model—to their original out-of-the-box state. Ensure the printer is powered on and in "Ready" mode.
Hold down the Stop/Cancel (or Print Screen) button for approximately 15 seconds. Alternative sequence (if the above fails):
Release the button once the status LEDs begin to flash rapidly or stay solid green.
The printer will restart automatically, indicating the reset is complete. 3. Resetting the Toner Chip Counter
The ML-2165 uses a chip on the MLT-D101S cartridge to track toner levels. If you refill the cartridge, the printer may still report it as "empty."
Manual Button Reset: Press and hold the Green/WPS button for about 5 seconds until the lights stop flashing. This can sometimes clear false "toner empty" alerts after a cartridge reseat.
Hardware Contact Cleaning: Sometimes the printer doesn't recognize a cartridge because of dirty sensors. Open the lid and gently clean the golden metal contacts on both the cartridge and the interior of the printer with a lint-free cloth.
Firmware Fix: For a permanent bypass of the toner chip (allowing you to use refilled cartridges without a new chip), some users apply a custom firmware "fix." This requires printing a Configuration Report (hold the WPS button for 10 seconds) to find your specific Serial Number and CRUM version before running a software tool on your PC. Troubleshooting Common LED Indicators
| Problem | Reset Method | |---------|---------------| | Printer frozen, won’t print | Power cycle (Method 1) | | Low toner message after refill | “Stop” button trick (Method 2) | | Selling or giving away printer | Hard factory reset (Method 4) | | Communication errors | Software reset (Method 5) | | False paper jam | Cancel button + power cycle (Method 6) |
Sometimes the printer is not "broken" – it is just frozen due to a corrupt print job or logic lock. This is a simple but often overlooked reset.
This "hard power reset" clears volatile memory and can resolve:
Before diving into the steps, it is crucial to understand the problem. The ML-2165 is notorious for two specific issues that a reset can fix:
Depending on your goal, you will use a different reset method.

