How to Fix Prusa Homing Error X 13304: Causes and Step-by-Step Solution
Prusa error 13304 (Homing Error X) appears on the MK4 and its equivalents are #26304 on the MK4S, #27304 on the MK3.9S, #21304 on the MK3.9, #28304 on the MK3.5S, and #23304 on the MK3.5. The printer attempted to home the X axis but the carriage did not trigger the end-stop within the expected travel distance, indicating a mechanical or electrical fault preventing reliable homing.
What the Error Means
X-axis homing drives the carriage toward the end-stop (either a physical switch or hall-effect sensor depending on the model) and expects to detect the trigger within the full X travel range. If the trigger is never detected, the firmware raises this error. Common causes include a loose or slipping motor pulley that allows the motor to turn without the belt actually moving the carriage, belt tension that is too low to transmit motion reliably, a physical obstruction on the X axis such as a print left on the bed or wiring catching on the carriage, or a disconnected end-stop or hall sensor connector.
Step-by-Step Fix
- Remove any objects from the print surface. A failed print or tool left on the bed can block carriage movement. Clear the surface before retrying.
- Check for wiring obstructions. Ensure the cable bundle that runs with the X carriage is not catching on the gantry or printer frame during full-range motion.
- Assess X-axis belt tension. Pluck the belt and listen for a low-pitched twang — a properly tensioned belt should produce a clear tone, not a dull thud. Tighten the belt via the tensioner on the X carriage if it feels slack.
- Inspect the X end-stop or hall sensor connector. Follow the end-stop wire to its connector on the xBuddy board and confirm it is fully seated. On hall-effect sensor models, check both the connector and that the sensor cable is not damaged.
- Check motor pulley grub screws. With the printer powered off, try to wiggle the motor pulley on the X motor shaft. If it moves relative to the shaft, tighten both grub screws — the flat-sided grub screw must seat on the motor shaft flat.
- Manually move the X carriage. Push the carriage slowly along the full X travel by hand with the printer off. It should glide smoothly without sticking or grinding. Rough spots indicate a bearing or rod issue that needs cleaning or lubrication.
Parts Required
- No replacement parts are typically required for this fix — basic tools only
- Replacement X-axis belt (if belt is cracked or has teeth missing)
- Replacement X end-stop switch or hall sensor (if confirmed faulty)
If homing continues to fail after checking belts, pulleys, and the end-stop, contact Prusa Support at help.prusa3d.com for further diagnosis.
Frequently asked questions
What does Prusa 13304 mean?
Prusa error 13304 (Homing Error X) appears on the MK4 and its equivalents are #26304 on the MK4S, #27304 on the MK3.9S, #21304 on the MK3.9, #28304 on the MK3.5S, and #23304 on the MK3.5. The printer attempted to home the X axis but the carriage did not trigger the end-stop within the expected travel distance, indicating a mechanical or electrical fault preventing reliable homing.
How do I fix Prusa 13304?
Prusa error 13304 means X-axis homing failed. Learn how to check belt tension, end-stop connectors, and axis movement to restore reliable homing on MK4-series printers.