Can't use any K cartridge

[ctblackwood]

I've changed different cartridges 3 times and placed it in several times but it's still saying to reinstall it or if the message keeps popping up, to replace cartridge.

[Sneha_01]

Hi @ctblackwood 

Welcome to HP Support Community.

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

If your HP printer is not recognizing the K (Black) cartridge, and you’ve already tried replacing it and reinstalling it, there are a few things you can try to resolve this issue. The problem could be related to the cartridge, printer contacts, or software issues. Let’s walk through some troubleshooting steps:

1. Check the Cartridge for Protective Tape or Plastic

• Remove the cartridge from the printer.
• Inspect the new cartridge for any protective plastic tape or shipping lock that might still be on it. Sometimes new cartridges have a piece of tape covering the ink nozzle or contacts, which prevents proper installation.
• If the tape is there, remove it carefully before reinserting the cartridge.

2. Clean the Cartridge Contacts

• Turn off the printer and unplug it to ensure safety.
• Use a soft, lint-free cloth or a cotton swab lightly dampened with water or rubbing alcohol to clean the metal contacts on the ink cartridge and the contacts inside the printer.
• Make sure both the cartridge and the printer contacts are dry before reinserting the cartridge.

3. Reseat the Cartridge Properly

• Reinsert the cartridge carefully, ensuring that it clicks into place securely.
• Double-check that the cartridge is aligned correctly and fits snugly into the holder.

4. Check for Software/Driver Issues

• Sometimes, the printer may show a cartridge error due to outdated or corrupted drivers. Ensure that your printer drivers are up-to-date:
  • Visit the HP Support website.
  • Search for your printer model and download the latest drivers for your printer.
• You can also try running HP Print and Scan Doctor (available from HP’s support website) to diagnose and fix any software-related issues.

5. Perform a Printer Reset

• Perform a hard reset of the printer:
  • Turn off the printer and unplug it from the power source.
  • Wait for 30 seconds, then plug it back in and turn the printer on.
• This can sometimes help reset the printer’s memory and resolve cartridge recognition issues.

6. Test with Another Cartridge

• If the error persists, even after performing the above steps, try testing with a new cartridge to ensure that the issue isn’t with the cartridge itself. Sometimes, cartridges can be defective, even if they are brand new.

7. Check the Printer’s Display for Error Codes

• If the printer shows any error codes or additional information on its screen (such as "Cartridge Jam" or "Ink System Failure"), take note of them. Sometimes, those codes can provide more specific guidance on how to resolve the issue.

8. Update Printer Firmware

• Make sure your printer’s firmware is up to date. Firmware updates can sometimes address cartridge recognition issues. You can check for firmware updates via the HP Smart app or the printer's web interface.

9. Replace the Ink Cartridge

• If none of the above steps work, it's possible that the cartridge is faulty, even if it's new. Consider replacing it with another genuine HP cartridge from a reliable source

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