Black Ink Won't Print

[Kven6]

I have an HP Envy 6400e printer and a newly installed black ink cartridge.  I've cleaned the printheads, aligned the cartridges, and performed a hard reset of the printer, which still will not print black.  Please help!

[Raj_05]

Hi @Kven6,

Welcome to HP Support Community.

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

It sounds like you've already performed some good troubleshooting steps for your HP Envy 6400e printer. Since the black ink still won't print, here are a few additional steps you can try.

Check the Ink Cartridge Installation

• Ensure the black ink cartridge is properly installed and seated in its slot. Sometimes the cartridge can appear to be in place but may not be making proper contact with the printer.

Inspect the Ink Cartridge

• Double-check the black ink cartridge to ensure that the protective tape (if any) has been fully removed from the cartridge.
• If the cartridge is old, it could be defective. You might want to try replacing it with a new cartridge, even if it’s a new one, to rule out cartridge issues.

Check the Ink Levels

• Make sure the black ink is not running out. Even if the cartridge is new, there can sometimes be an issue with the ink sensor or the cartridge not being recognized correctly.

Run the Printhead Cleaning Utility

• Since you've already cleaned the printheads, you can try running the printhead cleaning utility again from the printer's control panel or through the HP Smart app.

Check for Any Blockages in the Ink Path

• If there is ink drying or blocking the printhead nozzles, this could prevent the black ink from printing. Look for any visible clogs or blockages.

Update Printer Firmware and Drivers

• Ensure your printer's firmware and drivers are up-to-date. Sometimes, a software update can resolve printing issues.

Perform a Printhead Reset

• If all else fails, you can try performing a printhead reset. To do this, turn off the printer, unplug it from the power source for at least 60 seconds, and then plug it back in and turn it on.

I hope this helps.

Take care and have a good day.

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Alden4

HP Support