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- HP Community
- Printers
- Printer Ink Cartridges & Print Quality
- Faint black line appeared on double sided print out.

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07-05-2024 04:52 AM - edited 07-05-2024 04:56 AM
I printed 31 copies of an A4 double sided document on coloured paper and then printed another 33. First batch around 10 copies had a faint black line down one long side. second batch around 20 copies had a more visible faint black line down one long side. Both times the copies with line on came out in the middle of the print job. Pages are flipped on the short edge. Print all text as black is enabled. The document is mainly text with 3 boxes in black outline and 1 QR code. Approximately 600 pages remaining of black cartridge. The same issue occurred when I printed a similar document on white paper a week ago.
I printed a cleaning page and that did not solve the issue.
07-06-2024 11:47 AM
Hi @churchadmin,
Welcome to HP Support Community.
Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you.
The faint black line on your double-sided prints from the HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M283fdw could be due to several factors. Here are some steps to diagnose and potentially resolve the issue.
Check the Toner Cartridge:
- Even though there are approximately 600 pages remaining, the toner cartridge could still be the source of the problem. Inspect the black toner cartridge for any visible damage or leaks.
Clean the Scanner Glass and ADF (Automatic Document Feeder):
- Dirt or debris on the scanner glass or ADF can cause lines on printouts. Clean both thoroughly with a soft, lint-free cloth and glass cleaner.
Inspect the Drum Unit:
- The drum unit can sometimes cause lines if it has scratches or is dirty. Remove the drum unit and inspect it for any marks or debris. If you notice any issues, it might need to be cleaned or replaced.
Check the Fuser Unit:
- A dirty or damaged fuser can cause lines on printed pages. Inspect the fuser for any visible damage or debris. Cleaning the fuser might help, but if it's damaged, it may need to be replaced.
Perform Additional Cleaning:
- The printer's internal components, such as the transfer roller and the paper path, might need cleaning. Use the printer's built-in cleaning functions, if available, or refer to the user manual for instructions on manual cleaning.
Update Firmware:
- Ensure that your printer's firmware is up to date. Manufacturers often release updates to fix known issues.
Print Quality Diagnostic Report:
- Print a quality diagnostic report from the printer’s menu. This report can help identify any issues with the print quality and pinpoint the exact cause of the faint lines.
Check for Environmental Factors:
- Ensure the printer is placed in a clean environment and not exposed to excessive dust or humidity, as these can affect print quality.
HP Support Community Moderator
07-06-2024 11:47 AM
Here's a step-by-step approach to try resolving the issue.
Step-by-Step Guide:
Inspect and Clean the Toner Cartridge:
- Turn off the printer and unplug it.
- Open the printer cover and remove the black toner cartridge.
- Inspect the cartridge for any damage or toner leaks.
- Use a clean, dry, lint-free cloth to gently clean any toner residue.
Clean the Scanner Glass and ADF:
- Lift the scanner lid and clean the glass surface.
- Open the ADF and clean the feeder area.
Inspect and Clean the Drum Unit:
- If your printer has a separate drum unit, remove it and inspect for scratches or debris.
- Clean it carefully with a dry, lint-free cloth if needed.
Inspect the Fuser Unit:
- Check the fuser unit for any visible damage or toner build-up.
- Refer to the printer manual for instructions on cleaning the fuser if necessary.
Perform Additional Printer Cleaning:
- Use the printer’s built-in cleaning functions if available.
- Refer to the manual for detailed cleaning instructions.
Print a Quality Diagnostic Report:
- Navigate to the printer’s settings menu and print a quality diagnostic report.
- Analyze the report for any patterns or issues.
Update Firmware:
- Check the HP website for any firmware updates for your printer model.
- Follow the instructions to update the firmware if an update is available.
Environmental Check:
- Ensure the printer is in a clean, dry environment.
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. Click the “Kudos/Thumbs Up" on the bottom right to say “Thanks” for helping!
Alden4
HP Support
HP Support Community Moderator
07-12-2024 05:22 AM
I have updated the firmware and Printed a quality diagnostic report. I have no idea how to inspect the fuser unit or the drum unit. The issue is still occuring but I think it might only be doubled sided printing that is affected.