Damaged ink cartridges

[Lmgmt-RO]

Hello,

Following a replacement HP 950 XL cartridge on my HP 8620 printer, I just received the following message: One or more cartridges appear damaged. Remove them and replace them with new ones. I don't understand this because I only buy genuine HP cartridges. (Following the message, I just replaced the HP 950 XL for the third time (I've already turned the cartridges off and on again, then cleaned them and the printhead). I still get the same message.

Mimi 67A

[Max3Aj]

@Lmgmt-RO, Welcome to HP Support Community. 

Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you. 
It’s frustrating when your printer keeps showing a "cartridges appear damaged" error even with genuine HP cartridges. Since you've already replaced the HP 950XL cartridge multiple times and tried basic troubleshooting (removing/reinserting, cleaning, power cycling), here are the next steps to resolve the issue:

 Confirm Cartridge Authenticity

• Even genuine-looking cartridges can sometimes be counterfeit or defective. To verify:
• Go to HP Cartridge Authentication and follow the instructions to scan the QR code or enter the serial number on the cartridge box or cartridge label.

Clean Electrical Contacts Thoroughly

Even a small smudge on the contacts can trigger this error.

How to clean:

• Power off the printer and unplug it.
• Remove the affected cartridges.
• Use a lint-free cloth slightly dampened with distilled water or isopropyl alcohol to gently clean the copper/gold contacts on the cartridge and the matching contacts in the carriage inside the printer.
• Let everything dry for 5 minutes before reinserting.

Reset the Printer

Sometimes an internal memory glitch can cause persistent errors.

To reset:

• Turn on the printer.
• Disconnect the power cable from the rear while it's still on.
• Unplug the other end from the wall.
• Wait for 1–2 minutes.
• Reconnect and power on the printer.

Update Printer Firmware

• Outdated firmware can misread cartridges.
• Go to: HP Software and Driver Downloads
• Enter your printer model: HP OfficeJet Pro 8620
• Download and install the latest Firmware.

Try One Cartridge at a Time

• Remove all cartridges, then insert only the new HP 950XL black cartridge.
• If the error persists with only that cartridge, the cartridge itself is likely defective, despite being genuine.

I hope this helps. 

Take care and have a good day. 

Please click “Accepted Solution” if you feel my post solved your issue, it will help others find the solution. Select "Yes" on the bottom left to say “Thanks” for helping! 

Max3Aj

HP Support