Color images smear badly on all HP printers I have owned

[LV31]

Every single HP printer I have owned quickly degrades in the color printing of images. Each with the same issue.  They come out smeared in multiple colors - not blended.  For instance on an image that should appear as a solid bluish color prints as streaks of pink and blue across the image.  Black does not appear to be effected. I do all the things, clean smear (multiple times) align printhead, change cartridges, little if anything changes.  My final solution is typically to purchase a new model, until once again, this same issue starts on the new printer.  Looking for a solution.  Never had this with HP printers years ago. I have had instant ink on all models. 

[Sneha_01]

Hi @LV31,

Welcome to HP Support Community.

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

Experiencing consistent color smearing issues across multiple HP printers, despite following maintenance procedures like cleaning and aligning printheads, is certainly frustrating. Here are some steps and considerations to address this recurring issue and potentially find a lasting solution:

1. Check Printer Settings:

• Print Quality Settings: Ensure that the print quality settings in your printer’s software are set to the highest quality. Sometimes, lower settings can result in poor color reproduction.
• Paper Type: Make sure you are using the correct paper type setting for the paper you are using. Using the wrong setting can affect print quality.

2. Use Genuine HP Cartridges:

• Cartridge Authenticity: Always use genuine HP ink cartridges. Non-HP or refilled cartridges can sometimes cause color issues and poor print quality.

3. Perform Regular Maintenance:

• Printhead Cleaning: Continue with printhead cleaning, but ensure you are using the correct method for your printer model. Sometimes multiple cleanings are needed, but excessive cleaning can waste ink and may not always resolve the issue.
• Printhead Alignment: Perform printhead alignment after cleaning the printheads. This ensures that the printhead is properly aligned for accurate color printing.

4. Check Ink Levels and Cartridge Condition:

• Ink Levels: Make sure that ink levels are adequate, and check for any signs of clogging or damage on the cartridges.
• Cartridge Installation: Ensure cartridges are correctly installed and securely seated.

5. Update Printer Firmware and Drivers:

• Firmware Updates: Check for any available firmware updates for your printer on the HP website. Firmware updates can address known issues and improve printer performance.
• Driver Updates: Make sure your printer drivers are up to date. Outdated drivers can sometimes cause print quality issues.

6. Perform a Hard Reset:

• Reset Printer: Perform a hard reset by turning off the printer, unplugging it from the power source, waiting for 30 seconds, then plugging it back in and turning it on. This can sometimes clear temporary issues.

7. Evaluate Paper Quality and Type:

• Paper Quality: Use high-quality paper designed for your printer. Low-quality or incorrect paper types can affect print quality.
• Paper Storage: Ensure paper is stored properly in a dry environment to prevent moisture, which can cause smearing and color issues.

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