Ink levels good, but not printing properly

[Edene]

The status says there's no need to replace the cartridges, but the colours are not printing correctly. Magenta is pretty much not printing at all, and the other colours appear very pale. It's likely because I don't print often and the ink has dried up. I tried to clean the cartridges multiple times, but sadly no improvements.

Is it possible to get the replacement cartridges? I'm having trouble reaching out to agents through chat/phone.

[Sneha_01]

Hi @Edene,

Welcome to HP Support Community.

Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you.

If your printer's ink levels are good but it's not printing properly, with issues such as colors not printing correctly, it sounds like the ink may have dried up or there may be clogs in the printhead. Here are some steps you can take to resolve the issue and information on how to get replacement cartridges if needed:

Step 1: Perform Printhead Cleaning

Automatic Printhead Cleaning:

• Access your printer’s maintenance settings. This can usually be done from the printer's control panel or through the printer software on your computer.
• Look for an option like Clean Printhead or Deep Clean and run the cleaning cycle.
• Repeat this process a couple of times, as sometimes one cleaning cycle is not enough.

Manual Printhead Cleaning:

• If automatic cleaning doesn't work, you can try cleaning the printhead manually.
• Remove the ink cartridges and then remove the printhead (if your printer model allows this).
• Use a lint-free cloth lightly dampened with distilled water to gently wipe the printhead nozzles.
• Allow the printhead to dry completely before reinstalling it and the cartridges.

Step 2: Check for Firmware Updates

1. Update Printer Firmware:
   • Visit the HP Support website and check for any available firmware updates for your printer model.
   • Download and install the latest firmware.

Step 3: Try Different Cartridges

1. Test with Different Cartridges:
   • If you have another set of cartridges, even partially used ones, try installing them to see if the problem persists.
   • This can help determine if the issue is with the cartridges or the printhead.

Step 4: Purchase Replacement Cartridges

HP Online Store:

• Visit the HP Store to purchase genuine HP replacement cartridges.
• You can also find HP cartridges on other online retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, or office supply stores.

Local Retailers:

• Check local electronics stores, office supply stores, or supermarkets that carry printer supplies for HP cartridges.

HP Instant Ink Service:

• If you're enrolled in HP Instant Ink, you can order replacement cartridges through the Instant Ink service.
• Log in to your HP Instant Ink account and order the necessary cartridges.

I hope this helps.

Take care and have a good day.

Please mark this post as “Accepted Solution” if the issue is resolved and if you feel this reply was helpful click “Yes”.

Rachel571

HP Support

[Edene · Accepted solution]

For those having a similar issue with Instant Ink, the only option is reach out to a support agent either through chat or phone and order an ink cartridge. There's nothing an individual can do, since the website won't let you order since it thinks you still have enough ink.