HP 8710 Multiple cartridge errors

[Rat_Surgeon]

I am getting several cartridge errors, including cartridge not communicating and not designed to use continuous ink system. When I replaced all color cartridges with new ones, the cartridge not communicating error was still present. Is this a cartridge error or is this indicative of a printer failure? And, where can I take the printer for HP service?

[Kuroi_Kenshi]

Hi @Rat_Surgeon,

Welcome to the HP Support Community!

Thanks for reaching out!

We're thrilled to have the opportunity to assist you and provide a solution.

I understand your HP OfficeJet Pro 8710 is showing multiple cartridge errors, including “cartridge not communicating” and “not designed to use continuous ink system,” even after replacing the color cartridges. Let’s go through a few checks.

Before we begin:
Are the cartridges genuine HP 952 / 952XL cartridges, and has this printer ever used a continuous ink system (CISS) or refilled cartridges?

Meanwhile, you can follow these steps:

Step 1: Perform a Hard Reset

• Turn the printer ON.
• With it powered on, unplug the power cord from the rear.
• Unplug from the wall outlet.
• Wait 60 seconds.
• Plug directly into a wall outlet.
• Turn the printer back on.
• This resets the cartridge communication system.

Step 2: Test Cartridges One at a Time

• Open the cartridge access door.
• Remove all cartridges.
• Install only the Black cartridge.
• Close the door and check for errors.
• Repeat with each color cartridge individually.
• If the same slot reports “not communicating” regardless of cartridge, the issue is likely the printer, not the cartridge.

Step 3: Clean Cartridge Contacts

• Turn the printer OFF.
• Remove the affected cartridge.
• Use a lint-free cloth lightly dampened with distilled water.
• Gently clean the copper-colored contacts on the cartridge.
• Clean the matching contacts inside the printer slot.
• Allow 5 minutes to dry.
• Reinstall and power on.
• Do not touch the ink nozzles.

Step 4: Check for CISS Detection Lock

• If the printer previously had a Continuous Ink System installed:
• Ensure no external ink tubes or modified chips remain.
• Confirm all cartridges are genuine HP.
• Restart the printer after reinstalling.
• The 8710 has firmware that detects non-HP or modified chip systems and can trigger repeated errors.

I hope this helps.

I'm glad I could help! 😊 If this resolved your issue, please mark it as "Accepted Solution" and click "Yes" on "Was this reply helpful?" Your feedback not only keeps us going but also helps others find the solution faster! 👍✨

Take care and have an amazing day ahead! 🚀

Best regards,

[Rat_Surgeon]

I had tried some of those. Others did not work as described. For example, you cannot remove cartridges with the printer off. However it seems we may have fixed the continuous ink message. I still have the problem with Cyan communicating with the printer - and I have tried more than 1 C cartridge. I know we can remove the cartridge carriage. Is that a fix, can that part be replaced, or do I need a new printer? 

Thanks for your help!

[Kuroi_Kenshi]

Hi @Rat_Surgeon,

Thank you for getting back.

Let’s go through a few more checks.

Check Cyan Cartridge Slot (Isolate Hardware Issue)

• Turn the printer ON and open the cartridge access door.
• Wait for the carriage to move to the center.
• Remove all cartridges.
• Insert only the Cyan cartridge into its slot.
• Close the door and check the error message.

Note: If multiple cyan cartridges show the same error in the same slot, the issue is likely with the cartridge slot or printhead, not the cartridge.

Deep Clean Cartridge Slot Contacts

• Keep the printer ON and open the access door.
• Remove the cyan cartridge.
• Turn the printer OFF and unplug it.
• Using a lint-free cloth lightly dampened with distilled water:
• Clean the copper contacts inside the cyan slot.
• Clean the contacts on the cartridge.
• Let everything dry for 5–10 minutes.
• Reconnect power, turn ON, and reinstall the cartridge.

Reseat the Printhead

• Turn the printer ON and open the cartridge access door.
• Remove all cartridges.
• Locate the printhead latch (gray lever on the carriage).
• Lift the latch and gently remove the printhead.
• Reinsert the printhead firmly into place.
• Lower the latch until it clicks.
• Reinstall all cartridges and close the door.

Note: Ensure the printhead sits evenly; improper seating can cause communication errors.

Check for Bent Pins or Damage

• With cartridges removed, use a flashlight to inspect the cyan slot.
• Look for bent pins, ink buildup, or debris.
• Do not insert anything sharp inside the slot.

If pins appear damaged, the carriage may not read cartridges correctly.

I hope this helps.

Take care and have an amazing day ahead! 🚀

Best regards,

[Rat_Surgeon · Accepted solution]

I would have attempted to reseat the print head, but now we have replaced the printer. Thank you for your help.