Black ink wont print: cleaned, replaced, reset all, changed another new cartridge. please help

[Happygigi1]

hp Photosmart 7525 will not print black ink. Have replaced another new hp cartridge, have cleaned, factory reset, aligned, etc repeatedly. Ink shows full on screen and print out of ink levels.  I've only ever used hp cartridges.

[Kuroi_Kenshi]

Hi @Happygigi1,

Welcome to the HP Support Community! 

Thanks for reaching out about your query regarding your printer!

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

Try these steps:

Verify Cartridge and Installation:

• Ensure the black cartridge is correctly installed in the right slot and the protective tape is removed from the copper contacts and vent.
• Re-seat the cartridge by removing it and reinserting it to ensure a good connection.

Manually Clean the Printhead:

• Sometimes automatic cleaning does not fully resolve the issue, you can try manually cleaning the printhead:
  • Turn on the printer and open the cartridge access door.
  • Once the carriage is idle, remove the cartridges.
  • Using a lint-free cloth slightly moistened with distilled water, gently clean the copper-colored contacts on the cartridge and in the carriage.
  • Let the contacts dry for 5-10 minutes before re-seating the cartridges.

Perform a Second-Level Cleaning:

• From the printer's control panel, go to the Setup or Tools menu.
• Use the printhead cleaning feature, and if an option for a second or deeper cleaning exists, try it.

Run a Printhead Test:

• Print a Diagnostic Report from the control panel or printer software to identify and confirm any issues with the black printhead.
• Go to the “Print Reports” menu and select “Print Quality Report” or “Diagnostics Report.”

Test Different Paper Types:

• Print on different types of paper to rule out any issues with specific types of media.

Check for Firmware Updates:

• Update your printer's firmware to ensure that it is running the latest version with potentially improved functionality and bug fixes.

Print in Backup Mode:

• Sometimes removing the colored cartridge can allow the printer to attempt to print using only the black cartridge, this will highlight if there is a problem related to the printhead itself rather than the ink flow.

I hope this helps.

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Best regards,