Printer 'filter' failed

[B100100]

I have a HP LaserJet 1536df MFP which was printing fine until today.  It says my printer job is stopped due to 'Filter' failed.  I tried resetting the printer and it will print a test page just fine.  It scans  fine. It just won't print a document.

Next I tried checking my cable connections.  No problem.  I reset the wireless router.  No change,

HP doesn't recognize my serial number and that's frustrating because you can not talk to a real person about this matter.

[Kuroi_Kenshi]

Hi @B100100,

Welcome to the HP Support Community!

Thanks for reaching out!

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

The "Filter Failed" error on your printer typically occurs when the printer driver cannot convert your document into a format the printer understands. Since your test page and scanner still work, the hardware is fine, but the communication software is corrupted or outdated. 

1. Reset the Printing System (macOS Only) 

If you are using a Mac, this is the most effective fix for "filter" errors. 

• Go to System Settings (or System Preferences) > Printers & Scanners.
• Right-click (or Control-click) anywhere in the printer list and select Reset printing system.
• Confirm the reset. Note that this removes all printers from your list.
• Click the + (Add) button, select your
• Crucial: When adding, look for the "Use" or "Print Using" dropdown and select AirPrint if available, rather than the specific HP driver. 

2. Reinstall the Printer Driver (Windows) 

• Go to Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners.
• Select your printer and click Remove.
• Download the latest "Full Feature Software" for your model from the official HP Support website.
• Restart your computer before running the new installer. 

3. Clear the Print Spooler 

A stuck or corrupted job in the queue can trigger this error. 

• Windows: Search for "Services," find Print Spooler, right-click it, and select Stop. Then, navigate to C:\Windows\System32\spool\PRINTERS and delete all files in that folder. Return to Services and Start the spooler again.
• Mac: Open the Print Queue, click on the printer, and select Cancel All Documents. 

4. Workaround: Print as Image 

If the error only happens with PDFs (especially from Adobe Acrobat), there may be a specific software conflict. 

• Open your PDF, click Print, then click Advanced.
• Check the box for Print As Image and click OK. 

Are you using a Mac or a Windows computer, and does this error happen with every document or just specific ones like PDFs?

I hope this helps.

Take care and have an amazing day ahead! 🚀

Best regards,