Faded Printing - low quality

[Dswender]

A few months ago our printer started printing documents lighter than normal. Even a regular GoogleDoc with no color seems to print faded. We used to get beautiful print in b&w and color documents and photos in general. All the toner cartridges were at least half full when this started. They have all since been replaced and are all authentic HP cartridges. I have reset the printer to factory settings as well as every setting I could find in Windows to default or reset. I've read several help websites and watch youtube videos but none seem to address the issue. I've don't all the cleaning and collaboration options I can find. What else can I do? (It is out of warranty)

[Sneha_01]

Hi @Dswender 

Welcome to HP Support Community.

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

If your HP printer is still printing in low quality even after replacing the toner cartridges and performing resets, here are some additional steps you can try to improve print quality:

1. Check Print Settings

• Ensure that the print quality settings are set to the highest quality:
  • Go to Settings > Devices > Printers & Scanners.
  • Select your printer and click on Manage.
  • Click on Printing Preferences and set the quality to Best or High Quality.

2. Clean Print Heads

• Some printers have a built-in function for cleaning the print heads. Check your printer’s maintenance menu for this option. This can help clear any clogs that might be affecting print quality.

3. Check Toner Levels

• Even if the cartridges are new, double-check the toner levels through the printer’s display or the HP software on your computer. If any toner levels appear low or empty, replace them.

4. Check for Firmware Updates

• Make sure your printer’s firmware is up to date. Check the HP website for any available updates and install them.

5. Adjust Paper Type Settings

• Ensure that the paper type setting in the print preferences matches the paper you’re using (e.g., plain paper, photo paper). Mismatched settings can affect print quality.

6. Check Paper Quality

• Use good quality paper designed for printing. Poor quality or damaged paper can result in faded prints.

7. Run a Print Quality Diagnostic

• Some HP printers have a print quality diagnostic page that can help identify issues. Look for this option in your printer’s maintenance settings.

8. Inspect the Printer Mechanism

• Open the printer and check for any debris, paper bits, or foreign objects that could be obstructing the printing process.

9. Check for Software Conflicts

• Ensure that there are no conflicting software or drivers on your computer that could be affecting the print output. Consider uninstalling and reinstalling the printer driver.

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

[Dswender]

Hi Rachel, in one way or another, I think I have tried all these suggestions. I have un/reisntalled everything. Turned off all eco options I could find. Use only HP toner. Cleaned and wiped what I could. Did all the diagnostics and cleaning options available and I still get the faded prints. 

[Sneha_01]

HI @Dswender,

We apologize for the inconvenience, but it seems that the issue needs a hardware repair.

Unfortunately, there are no further actions we can take through this channel. I recommend reaching out to our phone support for further assistance.

They can help you with the unit repair or part replacement.

I request you talk to HP Phone Support and they will help you to sort it out 

1. Click on this link -  https://support.hp.com/us-en

2. Select the country.

3. Enter the serial number of your device.

4. Select the country from the drop-down.

5. Click on "Show Options".

6. Fill out the web form. A case number and phone number will now populate for you.

Please feel free to contact us here anytime you need any further assistance.

Have a great day!

Rachel571 

HP Support