HP MFP M480 Won't dispense black toner.

[JoshuaZil]

Our HP Mfp M480 suddenly stopped printing black. We replaced the toner cartridge multiple times so it is not the toner. The machine recognizes the cartridge as it says the black toner is ok in the supplies menu.  No residual toner on the paper. It looks like the toner is not even spinning as no toner is being dispensed at all. 

Any ideas what it could be?

[Sneha_01]

Hi @JoshuaZil 

Welcome to HP Support Community.

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

It sounds like your HP MFP M480 is recognizing the black toner cartridge but isn't dispensing any toner, which can be frustrating. Since you’ve already replaced the cartridge and the machine recognizes it, there are a few potential causes for the issue. Let’s go through a few troubleshooting steps to identify and fix the problem:

1. Check the Drum Unit

• The drum unit could be faulty or not properly engaged. The drum unit plays a key role in transferring the toner to the paper. If the drum isn’t working correctly, the toner won’t be applied to the paper.
• Remove and inspect the drum unit. Check for any obvious damage or signs of wear.
• If you can, clean the drum lightly with a lint-free cloth (be gentle to avoid damaging it) and reinstall it properly.

2. Examine the Toner Cartridge

• Even though you've replaced the cartridge, there could be a defective toner cartridge. It's possible that the new cartridge might be faulty.
• Inspect the toner cartridge: Ensure that the protective seal or tape has been fully removed. Sometimes, a small piece of protective tape can be missed, preventing the toner from dispensing properly.
• Shake the toner cartridge gently to see if toner is moving freely inside the cartridge (you should hear the toner moving if it's fine).

3. Check the Toner Dispensing Mechanism

The problem could lie with the toner dispensing mechanism in the printer:

• If your printer is not dispensing toner at all (not even residual toner), there might be an issue with the toner delivery system inside the printer.
• Check for any blockages or jammed toner paths inside the printer. Dust or excess toner buildup can obstruct the toner delivery channels.
• Clean the inside of the printer, especially around the toner area, and remove any visible toner spills or debris.

4. Check for Error Messages or Warnings

• Look for any error messages or warning lights on the printer. Sometimes, printers stop dispensing toner due to internal faults or alerts that don’t necessarily indicate an issue with the toner itself (e.g., an issue with the fuser, drum, or imaging unit).
• If you notice any, check the printer manual or the HP support site for more information on troubleshooting specific error codes.

5. Fuser Unit or Heat Issues

• The fuser is the component that uses heat to bond the toner to the paper. If the fuser isn’t functioning properly, the toner won’t stick to the paper.
• Check the fuser: If the fuser isn’t reaching the correct temperature, it might not be transferring toner to the paper. You can also try to reset the printer or check if the fuser is working correctly during the printer's self-test.

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”.

Sneha_01

HP Support