Black Cartridge: Not Intended for Use in Current Device

[Diznod]

while using the printer the print got failed in half done and after that i am getting this error, printer is 5 years old and stock print heads are in use no part changed till now

Black Cartridge: Not Intended for Use in Current Device

and light is blinking for the black print head in hp 416 
I did all steps by hp do i need to replace the head

[Kuroi_Kenshi]

Hi @Diznod,

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 Ink Tank Wireless 416 is showing “Black Cartridge: Not Intended for Use in Current Device” and the black printhead light is blinking, especially after a partially failed print. Let’s go through a few steps to check what could be causing this.

Check Cartridge Compatibility

Make sure the black ink cartridge or refill is compatible with the HP 416.

Some third-party or old refills may trigger this message even if the printer previously accepted them.

Remove & Reinstall Printhead

Turn off the printer and unplug it.

Open the cartridge area, remove the black printhead, and check for damaged contacts, dried ink, or misalignment.

Reinstall it firmly until it clicks into place.

Clean Contacts

Use a lint-free cloth to gently wipe the metal contacts on the printhead and the cartridge.

This can restore communication between the printhead and printer.

Reset the Printer

Turn off the printer, unplug it for 60 seconds, and then turn it back on.

This can clear temporary error messages.

Test Printing

Try printing a test page to see if the black cartridge is recognized.

Persistent Issues / Printhead Replacement

If the error continues and the black printhead light keeps blinking, it likely indicates the printhead has failed or worn out after 5 years of use.

HP recommends replacing the printhead in this case to restore normal functionality.

I hope this helps.

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,

[Diznod]

Thanks for your help, but unfortunately, none of the suggestions worked. To fix the issue, I ended up replacing the print head, and now everything is working fine. However, I do have one question: is it mandatory to replace both print heads if only one fails? Also, is there a time lock associated with the print head? I came across a few articles mentioning it and wanted to confirm. After using it for about 5 years, can the printer suddenly say that the print head is not compatible?

[Kuroi_Kenshi]

Hi @Diznod,

Thanks for the update! I’m glad to hear that replacing the black printhead restored normal functionality. Let me clarify your questions:

1. Is it mandatory to replace both printheads if only one fails?

No, it’s not mandatory. Each printhead (black or tri-color) functions independently.

You only need to replace the printhead that is failing. The other printhead can continue to be used until it also reaches the end of its usable life.

2. Is there a time lock or expiration on the printhead?

HP printheads do not have a strict “time lock,” but they can wear out or fail over time, especially after 4–5 years of regular use.

The printer may suddenly report “Printhead not intended for use” due to:

Electrical contacts wearing out.

Internal sensors detecting a failed printhead.

Age-related degradation of the ink delivery system.

So yes, after 5 years, it’s normal for a printhead to suddenly become unusable even if no parts were replaced.

Always handle printheads carefully and keep them clean.

Use genuine HP cartridges/refills to reduce the chance of compatibility errors.

Only replace the printhead that shows errors; you don’t need to preemptively replace both.

I hope this helps.

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,