Fix Lexmark “Replace Unsupported Cartridge” Error

12/29/2025

Lexmark printers may show a "Replace Unsupported Cartridge" error after installing a toner cartridge.

This message means the printer does not accept the cartridge, even if it looks new or genuine.

This article explains what causes the error and how to fix it step by step.

Quick Table: Error Codes and Fixes

Error Code	What It Means	Required Action
32.40D	Starter cartridge used in the wrong printer.	Replace with a new genuine Lexmark cartridge.
32.49	Cartridge is not genuine or is not meant for this printer.	Remove, clean, and reinstall. If it fails, use a genuine Lexmark cartridge.
32.52	Firmware is outdated and rejects the cartridge.	Update firmware (E402 or newer). Insert a different new genuine cartridge.

How To Fix “Replace Unsupported Cartridge” Error on Lexmark

Here’s how to fix different error codes related to the “Replace Unsupported Cartridge” message. Each code points to a specific issue and needs a specific solution.

Error 32.40D: Starter Cartridge Used in Another Printer

This error happens when a “starter” cartridge (SWE – Shipped With Equipment) is inserted into a different printer.

These cartridges are locked to the printer they originally came with and cannot be reused in other devices.

Steps To Fix:

Turn off the printer and remove the cartridge.
Check the label for "Starter" or "SWE."
If the cartridge came from another printer, it cannot be reused.
Replace it with a new, genuine Lexmark toner cartridge for your model.

Error 32.49: Non-Genuine or Incorrect Cartridge

This error usually appears if the cartridge is not genuine, refilled, damaged, or not made for your printer model or region.

Steps To Fix:

Turn off the printer and open the toner access door.
Remove the cartridge and inspect the chip.
Gently wipe the chip with a clean, dry cloth. Check for dust, damage, or signs of tampering.
Make sure the cartridge is a genuine Lexmark product made for your printer model and region.
Reinstall the cartridge and restart the printer.
If the error persists, replace the cartridge with a new, genuine Lexmark one.

Error 32.52: Cartridge Rejected Due to Outdated Firmware

This error can occur even with a brand-new, genuine cartridge if the printer's firmware is not up to date.

Once rejected, the cartridge is permanently locked and cannot be reused in the same printer.

Steps To Fix:

Turn off the printer.
Press and hold keys 3, 4, and 6, then power the printer back on.
Wait until the screen shows “Invalid Engine Code.”
Go to the Lexmark website and download the latest firmware (E402 or newer).
Install the firmware following the instructions provided.
After the update, power off the printer again.
Insert a different new genuine Lexmark cartridge (not the one already rejected).
Turn the printer back on.

Note: The previously rejected cartridge cannot be used again, even after updating the firmware.

Tips To Avoid Future Errors

To reduce the chance of seeing “Replace Unsupported Cartridge” errors again, it’s important to follow best practices when handling and installing toner. Most issues happen because of firmware problems, incorrect cartridge use, or mixing up starter cartridges between printers.

Keep these tips in mind:

Update the firmware before installing a new cartridge, especially if the printer hasn’t been updated recently.
Do not move starter (SWE) cartridges between printers. They are locked to the printer they originally shipped with.
Use only original Lexmark toner designed for your specific printer model and region.

If the error continues after trying all recommended steps, it’s best to contact Lexmark Support for further assistance.

Smart Toner Choices from Toner Buzz

We understand that genuine Lexmark toner can feel expensive, especially for frequent printing or office use. But as explained above, using non-genuine or unsupported cartridges can lead to:

Replace Unsupported Cartridge errors
Authentication failures
Permanent cartridge lockouts

To help you avoid those issues while still keeping costs low, we’ve selected a range of budget-friendly genuine Lexmark toner options, available right here at Toner Buzz.

Below, you’ll find Lexmark toner with low upfront costs (under $60) to get you back up and running affordably.

Cartridge Model	Price	Page Yield	Supported Printers
Lexmark C544X1KG	$40	6,000	Lexmark X544 dtn Lexmark C544 n Lexmark C544 dw Lexmark C544 dtn Lexmark X544 dw Lexmark X548 de Lexmark X548 dte Lexmark C544 dn Lexmark X544n Lexmark X544 dn
Lexmark 70C10K0	$53	1,000	Lexmark CS310 N Lexmark CS510 DTE Lexmark CS410 DN Lexmark CS410 DTN Lexmark CS310 DN Lexmark CS410 N Lexmark CS510 DE
Lexmark 70C00KG	$53	1,000	Lexmark CS310 N Lexmark CS510 DTE Lexmark CS410 DN Lexmark CS410 DTN Lexmark CS310 DN Lexmark CS410 N Lexmark CS510 DE
Lexmark 80C00KG	$53	1,000	Lexmark CX510 DHE Lexmark CX410 DE Lexmark CX510 DE Lexmark CX310 DN Lexmark CX410 E Lexmark CX410 DTE Lexmark CX310 N Lexmark CX510 DTHE
Lexmark C540A1KG	$53	1,000	Lexmark X544 dtn Lexmark C543 dn Lexmark C544 n Lexmark C544 dw Lexmark C546 dtn Lexmark C544 dtn Lexmark X544 dw Lexmark X548 de Lexmark X548 dte Lexmark X543 dn Lexmark X546 dtn Lexmark C544 dn Lexmark C540 dw Lexmark X544n Lexmark C540 n Lexmark X544 dn

If you print frequently, we recommend looking into extra high-yield Lexmark toner cartridges available at Toner Buzz. While many high-yield options offer solid value, the cartridges with page yields over 15,000 deliver the best long-term savings.

These are designed for heavy use and can reduce your cost per page to well under $0.02, making them ideal for high-volume environments.

Summary

“Replace Unsupported Cartridge” errors in Lexmark printers usually result from locked starter cartridges, incorrect toner, or outdated firmware.

Each error code points to a specific issue and helps determine the right fix.

Using the correct cartridge and following the proper steps restores normal printing and reduces the chance of future errors.