• ×
    Information
    Need Windows 11 help?
    Check documents on compatibility, FAQs, upgrade information and available fixes.
    Windows 11 Support Center.
  • post a message
  • ×
    Information
    Need Windows 11 help?
    Check documents on compatibility, FAQs, upgrade information and available fixes.
    Windows 11 Support Center.
  • post a message
Guidelines
If you're having print quality issues Click here for more tips!
Check some of the most frequent questions about Instant Ink: HP INSTANT INK, HP+ PLANS: INK AND TONER.


Check out our Black or Color Ink Not Printing, Other Print Quality Issues info about: Print quality and Cartridge Issues.
HP Recommended
HP Color Laser MFP 178nw

Hello

I have a problem with printing quality on my HP Color Laser MFP 178nw printer. It smudges the printed image and part of the image is printed repeatedly like a shadow at the end of the page. I have tried cleaning the inside of the printer and I inspected the imagining drum but I didn´t find any damage on it. I don´t know what could be the problem. Any help is appreciated. Thank you.20240710_113329.jpg20240710_113340.jpg20240710_113421.jpg20240710_113435.jpg

1 REPLY 1
HP Recommended

Hi @EliskaCadova,

 

Welcome to HP Support Community.

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

 

Here are some steps you can take to troubleshoot and improve the print quality on your HP Color Laser MFP 178nw:

1. Check Toner Cartridges

  • Inspect Toner Levels: Ensure that the toner cartridges are not low or empty.
  • Reinstall Cartridges: Remove and reinstall the toner cartridges to ensure proper contact.

2. Clean the Imaging Drum

  • Even if it looks fine, sometimes residue can cause issues. Use a lint-free cloth to gently wipe the drum surface. Avoid touching the drum directly with your fingers.

3. Run the Cleaning Cycle

  • Use the printer's built-in cleaning feature, if available. This can help remove any debris or toner buildup affecting print quality.

4. Check for Paper Quality

  • Ensure you’re using the correct type and quality of paper recommended for your printer. Low-quality or incompatible paper can lead to print issues.

5. Adjust Print Settings

  • Check the print settings on your computer. Make sure you’re using the appropriate print quality setting for your document type.

6. Update Printer Drivers

  • Ensure that your printer drivers are up to date. Visit the HP support website to download the latest drivers.

7. Inspect the Fuser Unit

  • If the fuser unit is worn or damaged, it can cause smudging. If possible, check the fuser for any issues or consider replacing it if needed.

8. Print a Configuration Page

  • Print a configuration page from the printer’s menu to check for any issues with the printer’s internal components.

 

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

.
Sneha_01- HP support
† The opinions expressed above are the personal opinions of the authors, not of HP. By using this site, you accept the <a href="https://www8.hp.com/us/en/terms-of-use.html" class="udrlinesmall">Terms of Use</a> and <a href="/t5/custom/page/page-id/hp.rulespage" class="udrlinesmall"> Rules of Participation</a>.