• ×
    Information
    Need Windows 11 help?
    Check documents on compatibility, FAQs, upgrade information and available fixes.
    Windows 11 Support Center.
  • post a message
  • ×
    Information
    Need Windows 11 help?
    Check documents on compatibility, FAQs, upgrade information and available fixes.
    Windows 11 Support Center.
  • post a message
Guidelines
If you're having print quality issues Click here for more tips!
Check some of the most frequent questions about Instant Ink: HP INSTANT INK, HP+ PLANS: INK AND TONER.


Check out our Black or Color Ink Not Printing, Other Print Quality Issues info about: Print quality and Cartridge Issues.
HP Recommended
HP Smart Tank 515 Wireless All-in-One

My printer does not print cyan and does not give any error message, ink is present, I have done head cleaning up to level 3, but it still does not print cyan.
I have also manually cleaned the print head, but with no results.
Do I need to replace the colour printhead?

1 REPLY 1
HP Recommended

Hi there @KRS78, and welcome to HP Support Community!

 

Thank you for reaching out with your concern. I'm glad to assist you today.

If your HP Smart Tank 515 is not printing cyan despite having ink and performing Level 3 printhead cleaning, here are some steps to help resolve the issue:

Check Ink Flow and Ventilation

  • Ensure the cyan ink tank is filled and the ink is flowing properly.
  • Open the ink tank lid and verify that the air vent on the cyan tank cap is not blocked. A blocked vent can prevent ink from flowing.

Printhead Alignment and Nozzle Check

  • On the printer control panel or via the HP Smart app, run:
    • Printhead Alignment
    • Nozzle Check Pattern
  • This will help identify if cyan is missing from the output.

Deep Cleaning via HP Smart App

  • Open the HP Smart app on your PC or mobile.
  • Go to Printer Settings > Tools > Clean Printhead.
  • Perform Level 3 cleaning again, and then print a diagnostic page.

Manual Printhead Cleaning (Advanced)

Since you've already manually cleaned the printhead, ensure:

  • You used distilled water or HP-approved cleaning fluid.
  • The cyan nozzle area is not clogged or damaged.
  • Avoid using sharp objects or alcohol-based cleaners.

Swap Printheads (if needed)

If cyan still doesn’t print, the color printhead may be faulty. Additional Tips

  • Always use genuine HP ink to avoid clogging or damage.
  • Avoid leaving the printer unused for long periods, as ink can dry in the nozzles.

If the suggestions helped solve the problem, please let us know by clicking “Accepted Solution.” It really helps fellow users find quick answers.

 

A quick “Yes” also goes a long way in showing appreciation!

Take care and happy computing!

 

Best regards,

Max3Aj

HP Support

† The opinions expressed above are the personal opinions of the authors, not of HP. By using this site, you accept the <a href="https://www8.hp.com/us/en/terms-of-use.html" class="udrlinesmall">Terms of Use</a> and <a href="/t5/custom/page/page-id/hp.rulespage" class="udrlinesmall"> Rules of Participation</a>.