Brand new inc cartridges not printing well

[whitney-p]

Hello. I just opened my new printer and have tried a few test prints and the inc has failed every test. I just opened them new from the packaging so I’m not sure what is going on. 

[Rachel571]

Hi @whitney-p 

Welcome to HP Support Community.

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

It's frustrating when new ink cartridges don’t work as expected, especially with a brand-new printer. There could be several factors causing the issue. Let's go through a few troubleshooting steps to try and resolve the problem.

1. Check the Ink Cartridges for Protective Tape

Sometimes, new ink cartridges have a protective plastic strip or tape covering the ink nozzles to prevent leakage during shipping. This tape needs to be removed before the cartridge can print properly.

• Remove the ink cartridges from the printer.
• Inspect each cartridge carefully for any tape or plastic covering the ink nozzles.
• Remove the protective tape if present (this is usually on the nozzle or the part that touches the printer).
• Reinstall the cartridges and try printing again.

2. Ensure the Cartridges Are Installed Correctly

Improper installation of the ink cartridges could also be the cause. Make sure the cartridges are inserted properly and clicked into place.

• Power off the printer and open the ink cartridge access area.
• Reinstall the ink cartridges, ensuring they click into place correctly. You should hear a slight click when they’re securely placed.
• Close the printer and turn it on.

3. Check for Cartridge Compatibility

Double-check that the cartridges you're using are compatible with your printer model. Some printers can have specific requirements for the type of ink cartridges (e.g., only genuine brand cartridges are supported). If you're using non-brand or third-party cartridges, they may not work as expected.

• Check your printer manual or the printer’s display screen to verify cartridge compatibility.
• Ensure you’re using the correct model number for the ink cartridges.

4. Perform a Printer Clean/Alignment

Sometimes the printer’s printhead may be clogged or the printer may need to run an alignment process.

Alternatively, many HP printers offer cleaning options directly from the printer’s control panel:

• Go to Settings > Printer Maintenance > Clean Printhead.
• Follow the instructions on the printer's screen.

5. Check Ink Levels in the Printer

Sometimes, even new cartridges might be improperly filled, leading to print failures.

• Use your printer’s display panel or the HP Smart app to check the ink levels.
• If the ink levels show as empty or very low, there may have been a manufacturing error, and the cartridge may need to be replaced.

6. Test with a Different Printer

If you have access to another printer that accepts the same cartridge type, try installing the ink cartridges in that printer to see if they work. If the cartridges print fine in the other printer, there may be an issue with the printer itself.

7. Perform a Printer Reset

Sometimes, a simple reset can resolve issues caused by software or settings glitches.

Steps to Reset the Printer:

1. Turn off the printer and unplug it from the power source.Wait for 30 seconds, then plug the printer back in and turn it on.
2. Try printing again to see if the issue is resolved.

8. Check for Firmware or Software Updates

Your printer may need an update to function properly with the new cartridges. Check for any available firmware updates for your printer.

• Go to the HP Support website.
• Enter your printer model and check for any available firmware updates.
• Follow the instructions to update your printer if an update is available.

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