printer is printing very light if at all

[BigSmoke611]

I recently bought new HP cartridges for my printer because they were low and now when I try to print something it is very difficult to see if it has anything printed at all.  I have tried printing from phone as well as 2 computers and they all give the same quality of nothing.  Any ideas what to check I have checked for paper jams and anything else I could think off.

[Kuroi_Kenshi]

Hi @BigSmoke611,

Welcome to the HP Support Community! 

Thanks for reaching out about your query regarding print quality!  

We're thrilled to have the opportunity to assist you and provide a solution.

If your HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M283fdw is printing faint or invisible text after installing new genuine HP cartridges, try these troubleshooting steps:

1. Check the Toner Cartridge Installation

• Remove the cartridges and reinstall them to ensure they are seated properly.
• Shake each toner gently from side to side to redistribute the toner.

2. Verify the Toner Levels

• On the printer screen, go to:
  Setup > Reports > Supplies Status
• If toner levels appear low despite new cartridges, they might not be recognized properly.

3. Clean the Printer’s Laser Scanner & Drum

• Open the front panel and remove the toner cartridges.
• Locate the drum unit (imaging unit) and check if it's covered in toner dust.
• Wipe it lightly with a lint-free cloth.

4. Print a "Supplies Status" Report

• On the printer menu, navigate to:
  Setup > Reports > Supplies Status
• If the page prints fine, the issue may be with the file/software.

 

[Kuroi_Kenshi]

5. Run a Cleaning Cycle

• On the printer panel, go to:
  Setup > Service > Cleaning Mode
• Run the cleaning cycle to clear any toner buildup.

6. Check Print Settings & Color Calibration

On the printer:

• Go to Setup > System Setup > Print Quality.
• Select Color Calibration and run the process.

From the computer:

• Open Printer Preferences > Check if the print mode is set to Economy Mode (disable it if enabled).

7. Try Printing a Different Document

• If one specific document isn't printing well, test with:
  • A plain text file (Notepad).
  • A Print Quality Diagnostic Page (Setup > Reports > Print Quality Report).

8. Update the Printer Firmware & Drivers

• On the printer:
  Setup > Printer Maintenance > Update Printer
• On the computer:
  • Go to HP Support Website, download and install the latest drivers.

9. Hard Reset the Printer

• Turn off the printer and unplug it for 60 seconds.
• Plug it back in and restart.

10. Test with Another Cartridge

If the issue persists, try another toner cartridge (if available) or check if the previous cartridges work.

Let me know if you need further guidance! 🚀

I'm glad I could help! 😊 If this resolved your issue, please mark it as "Accepted Solution" and click "Yes" on "Was this reply helpful?"—your feedback not only keeps us going but also helps others find the solution faster! 👍✨

Take care and have an amazing day ahead! 🚀

Best regards,