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- HP Community
- Printers
- Printer Ink Cartridges & Print Quality
- Re: HP ENVY 4520 Wont print color

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10-10-2024 07:53 AM
I cannot print with color. I have followed all of these steps.
https://h30434.www3.hp.com/t5/Printers-Archive-Read-Only/envy-4520-won-t-print-color/td-p/6429654
I have completely uninstalled and removed all drivers and reinstalled them.
color is showing up in the HP smart and HP printer assistant.
10-12-2024 09:10 AM
Hi @Waveseeker,
Welcome to HP Support Community.
Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you.
If your HP ENVY 4520 is still not printing in color after reinstalling drivers and confirming that color cartridges are recognized, you can try the following troubleshooting steps.
Check Ink Levels:
- Ensure that the color ink cartridges are not empty. You can check the ink levels in the HP Smart app or by printing a self-test page.
Clean the Printhead:
- Open the HP Smart app, go to Printer Settings > Tools, and select Clean Printhead. This process can help clear any blockages in the printhead.
Print a Color Test Page:
- From the HP Smart app, try printing a color test page. If it prints correctly, the issue may be with the specific document or application.
Check Print Settings:
- Ensure that your print settings are configured to print in color.
- When you select Print, click on Properties or Preferences.
- Make sure Color is selected instead of Black & White or Grayscale.
Update Firmware:
- Check if there's a firmware update available for your printer through the HP Smart app or HP's official website.
Run the HP Print and Scan Doctor:
- Download and run the HP Print and Scan Doctor to automatically diagnose and fix printing issues.
Reinsert Ink Cartridges:
- Turn off the printer, open the access door, and carefully remove and reinsert the color cartridges. Ensure they click into place properly.
Reset the Printer:
- Perform a hard reset by unplugging the printer from the power source for about 60 seconds, then plug it back in and turn it on.
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
10-15-2024 01:49 PM
Hi @Waveseeker,
Thank you for your response,
Here are some additional suggestions you can try.
Check Application-Specific Settings
- Some applications have their own print settings that can override the default printer settings. Ensure that the application you're using to print is set to print in color.
- For example, if you’re using a PDF reader, check its print settings to ensure it’s not set to print in grayscale.
Use a Different File Format
- If you're trying to print a document from a specific format (like Word or PDF), try printing a color image or another type of document to see if the issue persists. This can help determine if it's a specific file issue.
Try a Different Connection Method
- If you're using a wireless connection, try connecting the printer directly to your computer via USB. This can help rule out any network-related issues.
Check Printer Queues
- Ensure there are no stuck print jobs in the print queue. Open the "Devices and Printers" section on your computer, find your printer, and check if there are any jobs pending. Clear the queue if needed.
Reinstall the HP Smart App
- Uninstall the HP Smart app, then reinstall it. Sometimes, app settings can get corrupted.
Check for Color Profiles
- Ensure that the correct color profile is being used for printing. In the print settings, check if there’s an option for color management and make sure it’s set appropriately.
Printer Preferences
- Go to your computer's "Devices and Printers" settings, right-click on your HP ENVY 4520 printer, and select "Printing preferences." Ensure that the color option is set to "Color" rather than "Grayscale" or "Black and White."
Reinstall Printer Drivers
- If you haven't done this yet, consider completely uninstalling the printer drivers and software, then reinstalling them from the HP Support website.
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
10-18-2024 10:16 AM
ive set the applications that i use to print in color. when i try to print in color i cant and the issue persists. the printer is connected directly by cable to my pc. there are no pint jobs in the queue. i reinstalled hp smart and did a clean printheads test and it didnt print colors. i reinstalled all the drivers and it still doesnt want to print color.
10-18-2024 11:29 AM
Hi @Waveseeker,
Thank you for your response,
Since the issue persists, here are a few additional suggestions you could try.
Check Printer Defaults:
- Go to Control Panel > Devices and Printers.
- Right-click your HP ENVY 4520 and select Printer properties.
- Under the General tab, click Preferences.
- Ensure the Color option is selected.
Run HP Print and Scan Doctor Again:
- Sometimes running the tool multiple times can yield different results. Make sure to follow any prompts it provides.
Clear Printer Memory:
- Sometimes, printers can retain jobs in their memory. You might try turning off the printer, unplugging it for a few minutes, then turning it back on.
Print from Another Computer:
- If possible, connect the printer to another computer and try printing in color. This can help determine if the issue is with the printer or the original computer.
Check for Blocked Nozzles:
- If you haven’t already, run a nozzle check from the printer’s built-in menu (if available). This can help identify if any nozzles are clogged.
Replace Ink Cartridges:
- If the color cartridges are relatively new, it’s still possible they could be defective. If you have access to a new color cartridge, consider replacing one to see if that resolves the issue.
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
10-25-2024 09:24 AM
Hi @Waveseeker,
Thank you for your response,
Please feel free to reach out to us. We are here to assist you and provide any necessary support.
I will be archiving this case for now however, you can respond to the same thread to continue the conversation.
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!
Take care and have a great day ahead!
Alden4
HP Support
HP Support Community Moderator