Ender 3/Pro/V2 Not Starting/Printing? 14 Proven Fixes for Printing and Startup Issues

Experiencing frustration with your Ender 3, Ender 3 Pro, or Ender 3 V2 3D printer not starting or printing as expected? You’re not alone. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore 14 effective solutions to troubleshoot and fix common issues that can hinder your 3D printing journey. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned enthusiast, discover the steps to get your Ender printer up and running smoothly.

Why is Ender 3 not printing or starting?

Your Ender 3 might not be starting or printing due to various reasons. Common culprits include power supply issues, firmware problems, loose connections, and filament-related problems like nozzle clogs or improper loading. Additionally, mechanical issues such as loose belts or damaged components, endstop problems, and temperature-related issues can hinder the printer’s operation. Proper diagnosis and troubleshooting are essential to identify and resolve the specific issue preventing your Ender 3 from starting or printing.

1. Power Issues
2. Loose Connections
3. Firmware Problems
4. Bed Leveling
5. Clogged Nozzle or Hotend
6. Extruder Calibration
7. Filament Issues
8. Temperature Problems
9. Slicer Settings
10. Mechanical Issues
11. Endstop Problems
12. Nozzle Diameter Mismatch
13. Overheating Components
14. SD Card Issues
15. Electronics Failure

1. Power Issues:

Power issues can be a common source of problems with 3D printers like the Ender 3 series. These issues can prevent the printer from starting or operating correctly. Here’s an explanation of power issues:

• Disconnected Power Cable: A disconnected power cable is a straightforward but often overlooked issue. Ensure that the printer is securely plugged into a functioning power outlet, and check the cable for any visible damage.

• Faulty Power Supply Unit (PSU): A malfunctioning PSU can prevent the printer from receiving the required voltage. You might notice that the printer doesn’t power on at all or that it turns off unexpectedly. Inspect the PSU for signs of damage or loose connections.

• Blown Fuse: The power supply unit contains fuses to protect against electrical faults. A blown fuse can interrupt power flow. If the printer suddenly stops working, it’s worth checking and replacing the fuse if necessary.

• Voltage Fluctuations: Inconsistent voltage from the power outlet can lead to power issues. Consider using a voltage stabilizer or surge protector to ensure a stable power supply to your printer.

• Power Strip/Surge Protector Issues: If you’re using a power strip or surge protector, it may be turned off, or there could be a fault with it. Ensure that the power strip is on, and try plugging the printer directly into a wall outlet to rule out any issues with the strip.

• Inadequate Power Rating: Verify that the power supply unit is capable of providing enough wattage for your 3D printer. If it’s underpowered, it might not be able to drive all the printer’s components.

• Overloading the Circuit: If the printer is on the same circuit as other high-power appliances, it can lead to circuit overload. This may trip circuit breakers or cause voltage drops. Consider using a dedicated circuit for the printer.

• Cable Damage: Inspect the power cable for any visible damage, such as frayed wires or exposed conductors. Damaged cables can be a safety hazard and should be replaced.

• Loose Connections: Check all connections from the power source to the printer, including the plug, power cable connectors, and connections within the printer itself. Tighten any loose connections.

• Power Supply Switch: Some power supplies have an on/off switch. Ensure that this switch is in the “on” position.

Addressing power issues is crucial for ensuring the reliable operation of your 3D printer. By systematically checking and addressing these points, you can often identify and resolve the problem, allowing your printer to function properly.

2. Loose Connections

Loose connections refer to physical or electrical connections that are not securely attached or properly seated. These connections can occur in various electronic devices, electrical systems, or even mechanical assemblies, and they can lead to a range of issues, including malfunction, poor performance, or safety hazards. Here’s a detailed explanation of loose connections:

• Electrical Connections: In electrical systems, loose connections can occur at various points, such as plug sockets, wire terminals, or connectors. When wires or cables are not tightly connected, electrical current may not flow properly, leading to intermittent power supply or electrical arcing, which can be a fire hazard.
• Internal Components: Within electronic devices like 3D printers, loose connections can be found on printed circuit boards (PCBs). These may include loose solder joints, improperly seated components (e.g., microchips, resistors), or loose ribbon cables. Loose connections within the printer’s electronics can cause erratic behavior, errors, or complete failure.
• Stepper Motors and Belts: In 3D printers like the Ender 3 series, mechanical connections, such as those involving stepper motors and timing belts, are critical. Loose motor couplings or belts can result in missed steps during printing, leading to misalignment and poor print quality.
• Endstops and Limit Switches: Loose connections to endstops and limit switches can prevent the printer from accurately homing itself at the start of a print or detecting the position of its moving parts. This can lead to skewed prints or, in the worst case, collisions.
• Heated Bed and Hotend: Loose connections to the heated bed or hotend can disrupt the temperature control, causing temperature fluctuations or, in extreme cases, overheating. This can lead to print adhesion issues or filament jams.
• Extruder Assembly: A loose extruder assembly can result in inconsistent filament feeding, causing under-extrusion or filament slipping. This affects print quality and adhesion.
• Safety Hazards: Loose electrical connections can generate heat, posing a fire hazard. They can also lead to electrical shocks if touched. Therefore, addressing loose connections is essential for safety.
• Troubleshooting: When diagnosing issues in electronic or mechanical systems, loose connections should be one of the first areas to check. Inspect all cables, connectors, and solder joints for secure attachment. Tighten loose screws or bolts in mechanical assemblies.
• Prevention: Regular maintenance and inspection can prevent loose connections. Use appropriate tools to tighten fasteners and connectors. Ensure all connections are properly seated during assembly and repairs.

3. Firmware problems

Firmware problems can indeed prevent an Ender 3 3D printer from turning on or functioning correctly. Firmware is the software that controls the hardware components of the printer, and if it becomes corrupted or misconfigured, it can lead to various issues. Here’s an explanation of firmware problems that can prevent an Ender 3 from turning on:

• Corrupted Firmware: Firmware corruption can occur due to various factors, including interrupted firmware updates, power surges, or file system errors on the printer’s SD card. When the firmware becomes corrupted, the printer may not boot properly or may display errors on the screen.

• Misconfigured Firmware: Incorrect firmware settings can lead to problems. If the firmware is configured for a different printer model or has incorrect parameter values (such as temperature settings), the printer may not function as expected.

• Failed Firmware Update: An unsuccessful firmware update can leave the printer in an inconsistent state. If the update process is interrupted or if the new firmware file is incompatible, it can prevent the printer from starting up.

• Bricked Printer: In some cases, if a firmware update goes terribly wrong or if incorrect firmware is loaded onto the printer, it can “brick” the device, rendering it unresponsive and unable to turn on.

• Bootloader Issues: The bootloader is a small piece of firmware responsible for loading the main firmware. If the bootloader becomes corrupted or damaged, it can prevent the printer from starting up or responding to firmware updates.

• No Display or Error Messages: When firmware issues prevent the printer from turning on, you may not see any display or receive error messages on the printer’s screen. This can make it challenging to diagnose the exact problem.

• Recovery Options: Depending on the severity of the firmware problem, recovery options may vary. In some cases, it’s possible to re-flash the firmware using a microSD card or a computer connection. However, if the bootloader is damaged, more advanced recovery methods may be required.

• Preventing Firmware Problems: To prevent firmware-related issues, always follow manufacturer-recommended procedures for firmware updates. Use compatible firmware versions, ensure a stable power supply during updates, and keep backup copies of the original firmware.

• Professional Help: If you’re not comfortable or experienced with firmware troubleshooting, it’s advisable to seek assistance from the printer’s manufacturer or a knowledgeable technician. They can help diagnose and resolve firmware-related issues safely.

In summary, firmware problems can indeed prevent an Ender 3 3D printer from turning on or functioning correctly. Regularly maintaining and updating the firmware according to the manufacturer’s guidelines can help avoid such issues. If problems do occur, addressing them may require careful firmware re-flashing or advanced troubleshooting.

4. Bed Leveling: 

Bed leveling is a calibration process to ensure that the print surface is flat and at the correct distance from the printer’s nozzle, allowing for proper adhesion and print quality. However, improper bed leveling or errors in the bed leveling process can indirectly lead to printing issues or malfunctions. Here’s an explanation of how bed leveling can affect the printer:

• Uneven Bed Leveling: If the bed is not leveled correctly, one part of the print surface may be too close to the nozzle, while another part may be too far away. This can cause issues during the initial print layers, affecting adhesion and print quality. It may not prevent the printer from turning on, but it can lead to failed prints.
• Nozzle Collisions: When the bed leveling is significantly off, the nozzle may collide with the print bed or become jammed into it, especially during the homing or auto-leveling process. This could potentially cause damage to the printer’s components or sensors.
• Interference with Bed Leveling Sensors: If your Ender 3 has an automatic bed leveling sensor (like the BLTouch), improper bed leveling or a misaligned sensor can cause the sensor to malfunction or send incorrect signals, leading to errors in the printer’s startup sequence.
• Print Head Jamming: When the bed is not leveled properly, the print head may encounter resistance during movement, which can lead to jamming. Although this doesn’t directly prevent the printer from turning on, it can damage the printer or hinder its ability to complete a print.

It’s important to note that bed leveling issues typically do not cause the printer to completely fail to turn on. When you turn on the Ender 3, it should still power up, and you should be able to access its menu and settings. Bed leveling problems manifest during the printing process rather than during startup.

To resolve bed leveling issues, follow the printer’s bed leveling procedures carefully, and make sure to use an appropriate leveling tool (e.g., paper, feeler gauge). Proper bed leveling ensures that the first layer adheres well to the bed and is essential for successful 3D printing. If you encounter problems during the bed leveling process or while printing, consult the printer’s manual or seek guidance from the manufacturer or online 3D printing communities for troubleshooting and assistance.

5. Clogged Nozzle or Hotend:

A clogged nozzle or hotend is a common issue in 3D printing that occurs when filament residue or debris accumulates and obstructs the path through which filament is extruded. This can result in several problems, including:

• Extrusion Issues: The primary symptom of a clogged nozzle or hotend is irregular or uneven extrusion. It can lead to under-extrusion (insufficient filament flow) or over-extrusion (excessive filament flow) during printing.
• Print Quality Problems: Clogs often cause defects in print quality, such as gaps, layer inconsistencies, or surface imperfections. These defects can ruin the appearance and structural integrity of printed objects.
• Filament Skipping or Grinding: As the printer struggles to push filament through the clog, you may hear clicking sounds, which indicate that the extruder motor is skipping steps or grinding the filament, potentially damaging it.
• Failed Prints: Severe clogs can cause prints to fail completely, as the extruder may stop extruding filament altogether, leading to incomplete prints.

To fix a clogged nozzle or hotend:

• Cold Pull Method: Heat the hotend to the recommended printing temperature for the filament type you are using. Once it reaches temperature, manually push a small piece of cleaning filament or a straightened paperclip through the nozzle to dislodge the clog.
• Hotend Disassembly: In some cases, you may need to disassemble the hotend to access and clean the nozzle more thoroughly. Ensure the hotend is at printing temperature before attempting this.
• Nozzle Replacement: If the clog is severe and cannot be cleared, it may be necessary to replace the nozzle with a new one.

Extruder Calibration:

Extruder calibration is a critical process in 3D printing that involves adjusting the extruder’s settings to ensure it accurately and consistently feeds the correct amount of filament through the nozzle. Proper extruder calibration is essential to achieve accurate and high-quality prints. Here’s why it’s important and how to perform it:

• Filament Flow Control: Calibration ensures that the extruder motor moves the filament precisely as instructed by the printer’s firmware. This prevents under-extrusion (which leads to weak prints) or over-extrusion (which can cause issues like stringing).
• Layer Adhesion: Calibrating the extruder ensures that each layer of filament properly bonds to the layer below it, resulting in strong, well-adhered prints.
• Print Accuracy: Correct calibration ensures that the dimensions of printed objects match the intended design, preventing distortions or inaccuracies in the final print.

To calibrate the extruder:

• Mark and Measure Method: Mark a length of filament (e.g., 120mm) above the extruder and then command the printer to extrude that same length. Measure the remaining length of filament and adjust the extruder steps per millimeter (E-steps) in the firmware until the actual extrusion matches the commanded length.
• Extrusion Multiplier: Fine-tune extrusion by adjusting the extrusion multiplier setting in your slicing software. Print a calibration cube or a single-wall calibration print to fine-tune extrusion until you achieve accurate results.

Properly calibrated extruders ensure consistent and accurate 3D prints. Regularly checking and adjusting extruder settings is recommended, especially when changing filament types or after any major printer modifications.

6. Extruder Calibration:

Extruder calibration is a crucial step in 3D printing that involves adjusting the extruder’s steps per millimeter (steps/mm) settings to ensure accurate and consistent filament extrusion. This calibration process helps prevent under-extrusion (insufficient filament flow) or over-extrusion (excessive filament flow), both of which can negatively impact print quality. Here’s a more detailed explanation of extruder calibration:

Under-Extrusion:

• Cause: Under-extrusion occurs when the extruder delivers less filament than expected. This can result from an incorrect steps/mm setting, a partially clogged nozzle, or other factors.
• Symptoms:
  1. Weak and brittle prints.
  2. Gaps and layer separation in printed objects.
  3. Poor layer adhesion.
• Calibration Process:
  1. Measure a length of filament (e.g., 120mm) above the extruder.
  2. Command the printer to extrude that same length.
  3. Measure the remaining length of filament.
  4. Calculate the extrusion ratio by dividing the commanded length by the actual extruded length.
  5. Adjust the steps/mm setting in the firmware by multiplying it by the extrusion ratio. For example, if the extrusion ratio is 0.95, multiply the current steps/mm value by 0.95.

Over-Extrusion:

1. Cause: Over-extrusion occurs when the extruder pushes out more filament than expected. This can result from an incorrect steps/mm setting, an extrusion multiplier set too high in the slicer software, or other factors.
2. Symptoms:
   1. Excessive material oozing or stringing between print features.
   2. Bulging or uneven surfaces in printed objects.
   3. Difficulty assembling parts due to excess material.
3. Calibration Process:
   1. Measure a length of filament (e.g., 120mm) above the extruder.
   2. Command the printer to extrude that same length.
   3. Measure the actual extruded length.
   4. Calculate the extrusion ratio by dividing the actual extruded length by the commanded length.
   5. Adjust the steps/mm setting in the firmware by dividing it by the extrusion ratio. For example, if the extrusion ratio is 1.05, divide the current steps/mm value by 1.05.

Regularly calibrating the extruder ensures that your 3D printer accurately processes filament and produces high-quality prints. It’s important to note that other factors, such as nozzle size, layer height, and filament diameter, can also affect extrusion, so consider these variables when fine-tuning your printer’s settings for optimal results.

7. Filament Issues:

Filament issues can significantly impact the 3D printing process and result in subpar prints or printing failures. Here’s an explanation of two common filament-related problems:

Tangled or Improperly Loaded Filament:

• Tangled Filament:
  • Cause: Filament tangling can occur when the filament spool is not properly mounted or when there is friction or resistance during filament unwinding. It can also happen if the filament becomes knotted while feeding into the extruder.
  • Symptoms:
    • Print interruptions as the tangled filament stops the extruder.
    • Print defects due to inconsistent filament flow.
  • Solution:
    • Ensure the filament spool is mounted securely and that it can rotate freely.
    • Use filament guides or tubes to reduce friction during filament feeding.
    • Regularly inspect the filament path for knots or tangles.
• Improperly Loaded Filament:
  • Cause: Incorrect loading of filament into the extruder can prevent it from feeding properly. This can occur if the filament isn’t inserted into the extruder’s inlet correctly or if the extruder is not properly primed.
  • Symptoms:
    • No filament extrusion during printing.
    • Grinding or slipping of the filament by the extruder.
  • Solution:
    • Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for loading filament into your specific 3D printer.
    • Manually feed or push the filament through until it reaches the hotend, ensuring it is properly engaged in the extruder’s drive gear.
    • Purge or prime the extruder by manually extruding a small amount of filament to ensure it is flowing correctly before starting a print.

Using Old or Low-Quality Filament:

• Old Filament:
  • Cause: Over time, filament can absorb moisture from the environment, causing it to become brittle and less suitable for printing.
  • Symptoms:
    • Prints with poor layer adhesion.
    • Brittle filament that snaps easily.
  • Solution:
    • Store filament in a sealed container with desiccant packs to prevent moisture absorption.
    • If filament has absorbed moisture, you can try drying it in a filament dryer or oven at a low temperature.
• Low-Quality Filament:
  • Cause: Using subpar or off-brand filament may result in inconsistent diameter, poor quality control, or impurities in the material.
  • Symptoms:
    • Inconsistent print quality.
    • Clogs or jams in the nozzle.
  • Solution:
    • Invest in high-quality filament from reputable manufacturers.
    • Ensure the filament diameter matches your printer’s specifications.
    • Avoid using filament with visible impurities or irregularities.

8. Temperature problems

Temperature problems in 3D printing can lead to various issues, including poor print quality, print failures, or even damage to the printer. Here’s an explanation of the two common temperature-related problems:

Hotend or Heated Bed Not Reaching the Correct Temperatures:

• Hotend Temperature Issues:
  • Cause: The hotend is responsible for melting and extruding the filament. If it doesn’t reach or maintain the correct temperature, it can lead to filament jams, under-extrusion, or print defects.
  • Symptoms:
    • Filament not melting consistently.
    • Frequent filament jams.
    • Prints with gaps or weak layer adhesion.
  • Solution:
    • Check the hotend’s heating element and thermistor for damage or loose connections.
    • Ensure that the hotend’s temperature settings in the printer’s firmware are accurate.
    • Calibrate the temperature settings using a reliable thermometer or temperature probe to verify the actual temperature.
• Heated Bed Temperature Issues:
  • Cause: The heated bed is crucial for ensuring proper adhesion of the first print layers to the build surface. If it doesn’t reach the desired temperature, prints may not stick well, leading to warping or detachment.
  • Symptoms:
    • Prints not adhering to the bed.
    • Warping or curling of print edges.
  • Solution:
    • Inspect the heated bed’s wiring, thermistor, and heating element for any issues.
    • Confirm that the heated bed’s temperature settings in the printer’s firmware are accurate.
    • Use a surface temperature measurement device (e.g., an infrared thermometer) to verify the actual temperature on the print surface.

9. Slicer Settings

Incorrect Temperature Settings in the Slicer or Printer Firmware:

• Slicer Temperature Settings:
  • Cause: Incorrect temperature settings in your slicing software can lead to printing at temperatures that are too high or too low for your filament type. This can result in poor print quality, stringing, or even filament jams.
  • Symptoms:
    • Over-extrusion or under-extrusion.
    • Stringing or oozing.
    • Print quality defects.
  • Solution:
    • Double-check and adjust the temperature settings in your slicer to match the recommended temperature range for your filament type.
    • Review and modify temperature settings for specific print features, such as the print head and heated bed, as needed.
• Printer Firmware Temperature Settings:
  • Cause: Incorrectly configured temperature settings in the printer’s firmware can lead to temperature control issues, where the printer doesn’t heat or maintain temperatures accurately.
  • Symptoms:
    • Temperature fluctuations during printing.
    • Inconsistent extrusion.
  • Solution:
    • Access and review the printer’s firmware settings, ensuring they match your printer’s specifications and the filament you are using.
    • Update or re-flash the printer’s firmware if necessary to correct any temperature control issues.

10. Mechanical Issues:

Mechanical issues in 3D printing can disrupt the precise movements and operations of the printer, affecting print quality and reliability. Loose belts and pulleys, worn-out or damaged components, and obstructions in the print path are common mechanical problems.

Loose belts and pulleys can lead to inaccuracies in the printer’s movements, causing misalignment of printed layers and reducing overall print quality. Regularly tightening and maintaining these components is essential for ensuring smooth and precise motion.

Worn-out or damaged components, such as bearings, rods, or stepper motor parts, can result in increased friction, reduced print precision, and even printer jams. Replacing worn or damaged components is vital to maintain the printer’s optimal performance.

Obstructions in the print path, such as leftover filament, debris, or foreign objects, can disrupt the print process or cause nozzle clogs. Regularly cleaning and inspecting the print path, including the nozzle, extruder, and filament path, is necessary to prevent these issues and ensure uninterrupted 3D printing operations. Addressing mechanical issues promptly is crucial for achieving consistent and high-quality prints.

11. Endstop Problems:

Endstop problems can significantly impact the proper functioning of a 3D printer by impeding its ability to home accurately. Endstops, or limit switches, are essential components that help define the printer’s reference points and movements. When these switches malfunction, several issues can arise.

Firstly, a malfunctioning endstop can prevent the printer from homing correctly. Homing is the initial step in a 3D print job, where the printer’s carriage or nozzle moves to predefined positions to establish its starting point. If an endstop fails to trigger or improperly triggers, the printer may not know where its reference point is, leading to misaligned prints or collisions with the print bed or other components.

Furthermore, endstop problems can compromise print safety, as they serve as a fail-safe mechanism to prevent the printer from attempting to move beyond its physical limits. Without properly functioning endstops, there’s a risk of the printer trying to move past its boundaries, potentially damaging itself or causing safety hazards.

To resolve endstop problems, one may need to diagnose and replace the malfunctioning switch, reposition the switch for proper alignment, or check the wiring for loose connections. Regular maintenance and testing of endstops are essential to ensure the accurate and safe operation of a 3D printer.

12. Nozzle Diameter Mismatch:

Nozzle diameter mismatch occurs when the nozzle size setting in the 3D printer’s slicer software does not correspond to the actual physical nozzle size on the printer’s hotend. This discrepancy can lead to print problems, as the slicer generates toolpaths and calculates extrusion rates based on the specified nozzle size. If they don’t match, it can result in under-extrusion (with a smaller nozzle setting) or over-extrusion (with a larger nozzle setting), affecting print accuracy and quality. 

To resolve this issue, it’s crucial to ensure that the slicer’s nozzle diameter setting matches the physical nozzle installed on the printer for precise and consistent 3D prints.

13. Overheating Components:

Overheating components in a 3D printer can pose serious risks and cause various operational problems. These components, particularly the stepper motor drivers, the hotend, and the heated bed, can generate excessive heat during operation. When they overheat, they may fail or cause detrimental effects:

• Stepper Motor Drivers: Overheating stepper motor drivers can lead to missed steps, impacting print accuracy. They may also suffer permanent damage. To mitigate this, proper cooling, reducing motor current, or installing heatsinks or cooling fans are common solutions.
• Hotend: Overheating of the hotend can cause filament jams, inconsistent extrusion, and print defects. Proper temperature control and cooling mechanisms, like heat sinks and fans, are essential to maintain the hotend’s temperature within the desired range.
• Heated Bed: Overheating of the heated bed can result in print bed damage or electrical issues. Ensure the bed temperature remains within the specified range, and consider adding insulation underneath the bed to maintain heat and reduce power consumption. Monitoring and addressing overheating issues promptly helps ensure safe and reliable 3D printing.

14. SD Card Issues:

SD card issues can disrupt 3D printing when problems arise with the card itself or its contents. A malfunctioning SD card or corrupted file system can prevent the printer from reading or executing print files stored on it. This can result in printing interruptions and frustration for users. Common issues include:

• Card Corruption: If the SD card becomes corrupted due to improper ejection, power loss, or file system errors, it may render the stored print files inaccessible.
• Incompatible File Formats: The printer may not recognize certain file formats or may require specific file extensions, causing it to reject or ignore the files.
• File Transfer Errors: When transferring print files from a computer to the SD card, errors or interruptions can corrupt the file, making it unreadable by the printer.

To address SD card issues, it’s important to format the card in the printer or using the recommended file system, ensure proper file formats, and use reliable, undamaged SD cards. Regularly back up your print files to avoid potential data loss.

15. Electronics Failure:

Electronics failure in a 3D printer refers to the malfunctioning of critical electronic components, primarily the motherboard, which can disrupt the entire printing process. The motherboard is the central control unit that coordinates all the printer’s functions, including motor movements, temperature control, and communication with other components. When it fails, several issues can occur:

• Printer Unresponsiveness: A malfunctioning motherboard can cause the printer to become unresponsive, preventing it from powering on or executing commands.
• Erratic Behavior: It may result in erratic behavior, such as unexpected movements or temperature fluctuations, jeopardizing print quality and safety.
• Communication Errors: Failed communication between the motherboard and other components can lead to misalignment, skewed prints, or even hardware damage.
• Safety Risks: Electronics failure may pose safety risks, like overheating or electrical hazards.

Addressing electronics failure often requires professional diagnosis and replacement of the faulty components. Regular maintenance, proper voltage regulation, and adherence to manufacturer guidelines can help prevent such failures and ensure the printer’s reliability and longevity.

Why does Extruder fails to extrude the Filament – Ender 3

The absence of filament extrusion from the Ender 3’s extruder can be attributed to potential obstructions within the filament path. These blockages might occur within the PTFE tube or the hotend, where elevated temperatures can lead to filament melting, a phenomenon known as heat creep. Furthermore, issues may arise from improper nozzle-to-print bed distance or inadequate extruder tension.