Black not printing. colours OK. Ink level good. Overview indicates ready to print. New cartridge ?

[Barry-45_]

Black is not printing. Colours are ok. When I clean the print head it prints only 2 or 3 pages before going blank.  Overview indicates "ready to print" and black ink level is almost full. Do I need a new black cartridge?

[Hawks_Eye]

Hi @Barry-45_ 

Welcome to the HP Support Community! We're here to help you get back up and running.

I understand how disappointing it feels when the black ink stops printing even though the cartridge shows nearly full. You’ve already taken the time to run printhead cleaning, and it’s good to know that colour is working fine. 

Let’s go step by step to bring back consistent black output.

Run Additional Printhead Cleanings

• Open the HP App on Windows.
• Select your printer → Printer Settings → Print Quality Tools.
• Run Clean Printhead again, and if prompted, run Second-level cleaning.
  Sometimes multiple cleanings are needed to fully clear blockages.

Align the Printhead

• In the same Print Quality Tools menu, select Align Printhead.
• Print the alignment page and follow the on-screen instructions.
  This ensures ink is being laid down evenly.

Check Venting on the Cartridge

• Remove the black cartridge.
• Inspect the small vent on top (where the label is). If clogged with tape or debris, gently clear it.
• Reinstall the cartridge firmly until it clicks into place.

Print a Diagnostic Page

• From the HP App → Printer Settings → Reports → Print Quality Report.
• Look for missing black blocks or streaks. If black is absent, the cartridge may not be delivering ink consistently.

Try Different Paper and File Types

• Print a simple text document on plain paper.
• Then try a PDF or Word file. This rules out application-specific issues.

Update Firmware

• Go to the HP support page for your printer model and check for firmware updates:
  HP Printer Firmware Updates Update the firmware on an HP printer | HP® Support
• Install any available update, then restart the printer.

If after repeated cleaning and alignment the black still fades after a few pages, the cartridge itself may be failing internally even if the ink level shows full. In that case, replacing the black cartridge is the most reliable way forward.

If my response helped, please mark it as an Accepted Solution! ✅ It helps others and spreads support. 💙 Also, tapping "Yes" on "Was this reply helpful?" makes a big difference! Thanks! 😊

Take care, and have an amazing day!

Regards, 

Hawks_Eye

[Barry-45_ · Accepted solution]

Received new black cartridge today.. Fast delivery. Prints great now!

[Hawks_Eye]

That’s wonderful to hear, @Barry-45_  

It must feel satisfying to see crisp, clean prints again after fitting the new cartridge, especially with such quick delivery. 

Cheers!

Hawks_Eye