-
×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
- I get the message "Printer Failure There is a problem with t...

Create an account on the HP Community to personalize your profile and ask a question
10-28-2024 03:21 PM
I get the message "Printer Failure There is a problem with the printer or ink system" (no error code).
Just purchased new color and black ink cartridges from Best Buy. I have had HP printers for years as they usually have quality products. Same for Best Buy although the both of them have been slipping in quality for years since around the pandemic. This time when I changed the cartridges, I get this error message about the ink : "Printer Failure There is a problem with the printer or ink system" (no error code). Ink is VERY expensive!!! When I am going through trying to figure out what is wrong and how to fix it, I stumble across the ink level test/process. It tells me that the color ink is only half full!!!!!! Mind you, I haven't printed a doggone thing yet due to the errors. I'm tired of being ripped off by companies and their SHRINKFLATION!! Now it seems I'll have to purchase a new printer because after browsing some of the other question/comments/solutions (or lack of) for this particular problem, the only solution would be to purchase a new printer because that would be cheaper than another round of ink! After JUST purchasing $170 worth of ink (plus tax), this does NOT make me a lifetime customer any longer!! So disappointed. If anyone knows of a fix for the error message, I would be grateful! Or a brand/company of printer/ink that does their customers right. I have had a computer/printer since the Commodore 64 in the 80's and will have one for years to come so I need a place where the customer is treated RIGHT! Thanks, everyone!
10-29-2024 11:39 AM
Hi @GreenDay24,
Welcome to HP Support Community.
Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you.
I understand your frustration, especially after investing in new cartridges and encountering issues right out of the box. The "Printer Failure" message can be particularly discouraging, especially without a clear error code. Here are some steps you can try before considering a replacement.
Power Reset: Unplug the printer while it's turned on, wait for 60 seconds, and then plug it back in. Turn the printer on and check if the message persists.
Remove and Reinsert Cartridges: Open the cartridge access door, remove the cartridges, check for any debris or protective tape on the cartridges, and then reinsert them firmly. Ensure each cartridge clicks into place securely.
Check for Firmware Updates: Sometimes firmware updates help resolve cartridge recognition issues. Go to HP’s official support site and search for any recent firmware updates for your printer model.
Clean the Ink Cartridge Contacts:
- Use a clean, lint-free cloth and distilled water.
- Wipe the copper contacts gently on the cartridges and the corresponding contacts in the printer.
- Allow them to dry, then reinsert and check if the message clears.
Perform a Hard Reset:
- Unplug the power cord, USB cable, and any other connections.
- Wait about two minutes.
- Reconnect the power cord only and turn on the printer.
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