Hp5520

[yatesyman]

I recently installed new cartridges on my HP5520 printer. The printer says they're correctly installed and genuine HP. But it won't print anything properly.  

I have tried to align but the alignment it prints is clearly inadequate as you can see and won't scan. I tried printing it via the phone app instead but when I followed the instructions to 'print quality tools' the page was blank.

Any suggestions  - or do i just give up on this printer?  

[Kuroi_Kenshi]

Hi @yatesyman,

Welcome to the HP Support Community! 

Thanks for reaching out about your query regarding your printer!

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

Try these steps:

Check Cartridge Installation

1. Ensure Correct Installation: Double-check that the cartridges are installed correctly. Make sure they are firmly seated in their respective slots.
2. Check Cartridge Compatibility: Verify that the cartridges are compatible with your printer model. Though they are genuine, sometimes using the wrong type may cause issues.

Perform a Printhead Cleaning

1. Access Printhead Cleaning: Use the printer's control panel to access the cleaning tool.
2. Run the Cleaning Utility: Navigate to the settings to select "Printhead Cleaning" under the "Tools" or "Maintenance" section.

Reattempt Aligning the Printhead

1. Alignment Page: Try printing another alignment page and ensure the paper is placed correctly for scanning.
2. Scan the Alignment Page: Follow the instructions closely to properly scan the alignment page and complete the alignment process.

Update Printer Firmware

1. Check for Firmware Updates: Ensure that your printer's firmware is up-to-date by accessing the HP website or using the HP Smart app for updates.

Run a Test Print

1. Print a Test Page: Try printing a test page using the printer's built-in capability or through the HP Smart app.
2. Observe the Output: Analyze the printed page for quality issues such as streaks, color discrepancies, or missing text.

Printer Reset

1. Reset the Printer: Unplug the printer from the power source, wait for about 60 seconds, and then plug it back in. This can sometimes help resolve minor 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,

[yatesyman]

Hi

Thanks for your reply. I should probably have said from the outset I have already done those things several times. This is what the print quality diagnostic shows after I tried cleaning the print heads. As you can see, the colours look fine but the black appears empty, even though it is a brand new cartridge. I also know it is the correct type - they were all in the same box, changed at the same time, and fitted perfectly. I even fished the old black cartridge out of the bin in case I had muddled them up when changing! (I hadn't).

[Kuroi_Kenshi]

Hi @yatesyman,

Thanks for the update, and I appreciate the extra context, that really helps!

Based on what you've shared and the diagnostic page showing missing black ink despite a new, genuine cartridge, here are a few additional steps to try:

 Run Multiple Printhead Cleanings

Sometimes one cleaning cycle isn’t enough, especially if the black ink channel is clogged. From the printer’s maintenance menu, try running the printhead cleaning tool 2–3 times (with a 5–10 minute pause between each run). Then print another diagnostic page.

 Check the Vent on the Black Cartridge

If the vent on the black cartridge is blocked, ink won’t flow. Gently remove the cartridge and inspect the small vent area (usually on the top). If there's tape covering it (aside from the protective strip you already removed), gently peel it off. If the vent seems clogged, lightly clear it using a pin or clean cloth.

 Perform a Hard Reset

This can sometimes recalibrate the printer:

Turn on the printer.

With it still powered on, unplug the power cable from the wall and the printer.

Wait 60 seconds.

Plug it back in and power it up.

 Try a Power Drain and Re-seat Cartridges

Remove all cartridges.

Power off the printer and unplug it for 2–3 minutes.

Plug it back in, power it on, and reinsert cartridges one by one, starting with black.

 Try a Firmware Update via HP Smart App

If you haven’t yet, use the HP Smart app to check for firmware updates. Sometimes ink detection and flow issues are fixed in updates.

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,

[yatesyman]

Thanks for your reply.

I have tried all you suggested and nothing worked. The only thing I haven't tried is the firmware update. I cannot see how to do this. I've gone into the app, I've even tried its 'help' options, but the 'advanced settings' tab it suggested doesn't exist and I can't see anything about an update. According to printer info on the app, the firmware version is MGP1CN1610AR.

[Kuroi_Kenshi]

Hi @yatesyman,

Welcome to the HP Support Community! 

We're here to help you tackle that malfunction! Don't worry, we've got your back! 

To get you the best assistance, we need to take this conversation to a private chat. We're inviting you to a private message to protect your privacy and ensure that any sensitive information remains confidential. 

To access your private message, just click the little blue envelope icon on the upper right corner of your HP Community profile, next to your profile name. Alternatively, you can click on this link. 

You can use this link as well: 

Private Messages - HP Support Community

We're looking forward to helping you resolve this issue! 

Stay tuned, and thanks for your patience! 

Best regards,

[yatesyman]

I entered the serial number but it says it's expired. So does that mean no more help?

[Kuroi_Kenshi]

Hi @yatesyman,

We understand how important it is to have your device functioning properly, and we're here to assist you.​

To ensure your device receives the appropriate care, we recommend visiting an authorized HP service center. Our certified technicians can provide a thorough diagnosis and offer the best solutions to address the issue.​

You can locate the nearest HP service center using our Service Center Locator:​

🔗 HP Service Center Locator

If you need further assistance or have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact us.​

Best Regards,