-
×InformationNeed Windows 11 help?Check documents on compatibility, FAQs, upgrade information and available fixes.
Windows 11 Support Center. -
-
×InformationNeed Windows 11 help?Check documents on compatibility, FAQs, upgrade information and available fixes.
Windows 11 Support Center. -
- HP Community
- Printers
- Printer Ink Cartridges & Print Quality
- HP 6975 Does not print black anymore

Create an account on the HP Community to personalize your profile and ask a question
Your account also allows you to connect with HP support faster, access a personal dashboard to manage all of your devices in one place, view warranty information, case status and more.
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.
It has been a while since anyone has replied. Simply ask a new question if you would like to start the discussion again.
1 REPLY 1
10-13-2024 10:31 AM
Hi @BuildUP
Welcome to HP Support Community.
Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you.
If your HP 6975 is printing in a very light gray instead of black after replacing the black cartridge, here are some steps you can take to troubleshoot the issue:
1. Check Cartridge Installation
- Make sure the new HP 902 XL cartridge is installed correctly. Remove it and reinstall it to ensure it’s seated properly.
2. Run Printer Maintenance
- Use the printer’s maintenance options to clean the print head:
- Go to the printer's control panel.
- Look for Setup > Printer Maintenance > Clean Printhead or a similar option.
- Follow the prompts to complete the cleaning process.
3. Print a Test Page
- After cleaning, print a test page or a nozzle check to see if the issue persists. This can help determine if any nozzles are clogged.
4. Check Ink Levels
- Confirm that the new black cartridge has enough ink. Sometimes new cartridges can be faulty. You can check ink levels through the printer’s control panel or HP Smart app.
5. Update Printer Firmware
- Make sure your printer firmware is up to date. Check the HP support website for any available updates.
6. Perform a Print Head Alignment
- Go to the maintenance section of the printer and look for an option to align the print head. This can help improve print quality.
7. Inspect for Clogs or Damage
- If the issue persists, remove the cartridge and inspect the print head for any clogs or damage. Clean the print head carefully with a lint-free cloth or a cotton swab lightly moistened with distilled water.
8. Try Another Cartridge
- If possible, try using another new HP 902 XL cartridge. It’s possible that the new cartridge you installed is defective.
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
.
Sneha_01- HP support
Sneha_01- HP support
Be alert for scammers posting fake support phone numbers and/or email addresses on the community.
If you think you have received a fake HP Support message, please report it to us by clicking on "Flag Post".
† The opinions expressed above are the personal opinions of the authors, not of HP. By using this site, you accept the Terms of Use and Rules of Participation.
Didn't find what you were looking for?
Ask the community
† 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>.