2606 sdw toner level issues

[Kunj_Thakker]

Hi,

My HP 2606 sdw toner lights dipped to reserve level, so I reloaded it with genuine 158x toner refill kit. But the printer didn't reflect the full toner lever (or atleast the rise). I tried directly switching off the power outlet button and unplugged the cable, even after restarting on its own, the printer didn't update toner level.

What could be done to debug this issue ?

Thanks 

[Kuroi_Kenshi]

Hi @Kunj_Thakker,

Welcome to the HP Support Community!

Thanks for reaching out!

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

I understand your HP LaserJet 2606sdw is not updating the toner level after refilling with a genuine kit. Let’s go through a few checks.

Understand Toner Level Behavior 

1. This model tracks toner usage electronically, not by actual ink level.
2. Refilling the toner does not reset the internal page count.
3. The level may continue to show low even after the refill.
4. This is expected behavior for this series.
5. Printing should still continue normally despite the warning.

Check Cartridge Installation

1. Open the toner access door.
2. Remove the cartridge.
3. Reinsert it firmly until it is fully seated.
4. Close the door securely.
5. Allow the printer to reinitialize.

Reset Printer State

1. Keep the printer on.
2. Disconnect the power cord from the rear.
3. Unplug from the wall outlet.
4. Wait 60 seconds.
5. Plug back in and power ON.

Check for Toner Errors vs. Warnings

1. Observe the control panel lights/messages.
2. Confirm if it shows “low toner” or “replace toner.”
3. Low toner = printer will still print.
4. Replace toner = may eventually stop printing.
5. Note any blinking indicator patterns.

Verify Refill Kit Compatibility

1. Ensure the refill kit is correct for the 158X model.
2. Confirm the chip (if included) was replaced properly.
3. Some kits require chip replacement to reset levels.
4. Without a chip reset, levels will not update.
5. Try reinstalling the chip if applicable.

If the printer is printing fine but showing low toner, it is normal after a refill. If it stops printing with a "replace" message, let me know the exact light pattern or message.

I hope this helps.

Take care and have an amazing day ahead! 🚀

Best regards,

[Kunj_Thakker]

Hi Kuroi,

I have refilled the toner previously as well, the light indicator for toner goes up without having to reset toner level chip. 

I have tried resetting the printer by pulling the chord, also I have tried resetting the printer

None of these methods worked for me.

[Kuroi_Kenshi]

Hi @Kunj_Thakker,

Thanks for getting back with those details, that helps narrow things down quite a bit.

Since you’ve successfully refilled this before without needing a chip reset, but it’s not updating this time, this likely points to either a chip/contact issue or toner recognition fault, rather than normal behavior. Let’s go a bit deeper:

1. Clean Cartridge Chip & Contacts

Sometimes the printer fails to read the toner chip properly.

• Remove the toner cartridge
• Locate the gold contact chip on the cartridge
• Gently clean it using a dry lint-free cloth (no liquid)
• Also check inside the printer for the contact pins and ensure no dust/debris is blocking them
• Reinsert the cartridge firmly

Even slight dust or misalignment can prevent level detection.

2. Reseat the Toner Multiple Times

• Remove and reinstall the cartridge 2–3 times
• Each time, close the door fully and wait ~10–15 seconds

This forces the printer to attempt re-reading the cartridge data.

3. Check for Chip Damage or Wear

Even if you didn’t replace the chip:

• The chip can degrade after multiple refills
• If the printer no longer detects refill changes, the chip may not be updating usage correctly

In this case, the only reliable fix is:

• Replacing the chip (if refill kit supports it), or
• Using a new original cartridge

4. Print a Supplies Status Page

This helps confirm what the printer is actually reading:

• Press and hold the Resume/Cancel button (X) for ~5 seconds
• It should print a status/configuration page

Check:

• Toner level %
• Cartridge status (OK / Low / Very Low / Replace)

I hope this helps.

Take care and have an amazing day ahead! 🚀

Best regards,