Cyan not working

[K-Spen]

I have had issues with my printer since the day I purchased it. Sometimes it won't print black, currently it wont print cyan.  I am using the authorized ink that I also pay for, and pay per print...including all the alignment and test print pages.  I am ready to throw this thing out the window!  Does anyone have any insight?  The virtual assistant cannot diagnose, it finds no issues. 

[Sneha_01]

Hi @K-Spen,

Welcome to HP Support Community.

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

Printer issues, especially those related to color not printing, can be incredibly frustrating. Here are some steps and tips to help diagnose and possibly fix the issue with cyan not printing:

1. Check Ink Levels

Even if you are using authorized ink and on a pay-per-print plan, verify that your cyan ink cartridge is not empty or nearly empty. Sometimes, the printer software might not accurately reflect the ink levels.

2. Clean Print Heads

Print heads can get clogged, especially if the printer hasn’t been used for a while. Most printers have a built-in utility to clean the print heads. You can usually find this option in the printer’s maintenance menu or settings.

Steps to Clean Print Heads:

• Open your printer’s maintenance or settings menu.
• Locate the print head cleaning option.
• Run the cleaning cycle, which might take a few minutes.

3. Perform a Nozzle Check

Running a nozzle check can help identify if the print head is clogged or if there's an issue with ink flow.

Steps for a Nozzle Check:

• Go to the printer’s maintenance menu.
• Select “Nozzle Check” or a similar option.
• Print the nozzle check pattern to see if cyan appears correctly.

4. Reinsert or Replace the Cartridge

Sometimes, the cartridge might not be seated properly, or it could be defective.

Steps to Reinsert or Replace:

• Turn off the printer and unplug it.
• Open the printer and remove the cyan cartridge.
• Inspect the cartridge and the cartridge slot for any visible issues.
• Reinsert the cartridge, ensuring it clicks into place.
• If this doesn’t work, try replacing the cyan cartridge with a new one.

5. Check for Firmware Updates

Printer HP often release firmware updates that can fix known issues.

Steps to Check for Updates:

• Visit the printer HP website.
• Look for firmware updates for your specific printer model.
• Follow the instructions to update the firmware.

6. Run Printer Diagnostics

If your printer has a built-in diagnostic tool, run it to see if it can identify the problem.

Steps to Run Diagnostics:

• Access the printer’s settings or maintenance menu.
• Find and run the diagnostic tool.

7. Ensure Proper Printer Settings

Make sure your print settings are correct, especially if you’re trying to print in color.

Steps to Check Printer Settings:

• Go to the print dialog box in the software you are using.
• Ensure that the print mode is set to color, not grayscale.
• Check the quality settings, and ensure nothing is set to draft or economy mode that might affect color printing.

I hope this helps.

Take care and have a good day.

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Rachel571

HP Support