Cyan Ink Not Printing

[Megmangotree]

5.12.26

Hello.

For months my HP OfficeJetPro 6978 All-In-One printer will not print with the cyan ink. I have completed tests, diagnostics, gently attempted to clean the nozzles, changed the cartridge, etc. none improved the situation. All other ink cartridges are working. I am frustrated.

Does anyone have any other ideas? 
Thank you!

[Jerry_57]

Hi @Megmangotree,

Welcome to the HP Support Community.

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

I hear that Cyan Ink is not working on your HP OfficeJet Pro 6978 Printer. 

Here are a few additional steps to help resolve the issue:
 

Check Ink Cartridge Venting

Sometimes, a clogged vent on the cyan cartridge can prevent ink from flowing.
 

1. Remove the cyan cartridge.
    
2. Look at the top of the cartridge for a small vent (usually a tiny slit).
    
3. If it's clogged or covered (e.g., with tape or dried ink), gently clean it with a pin or soft cloth.
    
4. Reinstall the cartridge and try printing again.

Deep Printhead Cleaning via HP Smart or Printer Menu

If standard cleaning didn’t help, try a second-level cleaning:
 

• On the printer control panel, go to: Setup > Printer Maintenance > Clean Printhead > Second-level Clean
   
• Alternatively, use the HP Smart app on your PC or phone to run a deeper cleaning cycle.

Repeat this only once or twice to avoid ink waste.

 Print a Print Quality Diagnostic Page Again

After cleaning, print a test page:
 

• Setup > Reports > Print Quality Report
   
• Check if cyan appears. If not, proceed to the next step.

Remove and Reinstall the Printhead (if removable)

The OfficeJet Pro 6978 has a semi-permanent printhead. You can try reseating it:
 

1. Power on the printer and open the ink cartridge access door.
    
2. Remove all cartridges.
    
3. Lift the latch on the printhead assembly and gently remove the printhead.
    
4. Wipe the electrical contacts with a lint-free cloth (no alcohol).
    
5. Reinsert the printhead, lower the latch, reinstall cartridges, and close the door.

Replace the Cyan Cartridge

If the issue persists, try replacing the cyan cartridge with a new, genuine HP cartridge. Even if the ink level appears fine, the cartridge could be defective.

I hope this will help.

 

Take care and have a good day.

[Megmangotree]

5.14.26

Thank you very much Jerry_57!!

I will try these things you suggested!

Megmangotree

[Jerry_57]

Thank you for letting us know. We appreciate you trying the steps, and we’re here if you need any further help.