-
×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 that the print carriage won"t move bujt I ...

Create an account on the HP Community to personalize your profile and ask a question
Your account also allows you to connect with HP support faster, access a personal dashboard to manage all of your devices in one place, view warranty information, case status and more.
Check some of the most frequent questions about Instant Ink: HP INSTANT INK, HP+ PLANS: INK AND TONER.
Check out our Black or Color Ink Not Printing, Other Print Quality Issues info about: Print quality and Cartridge Issues.
It has been a while since anyone has replied. Simply ask a new question if you would like to start the discussion again.
1 REPLY 1
10-13-2024 11:15 AM
Hi @pwelfare
Welcome to HP Support Community.
Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you.
If your HP OfficeJet Pro 6978 is displaying a message that the print carriage won’t move, even after checking for jams, here are some steps you can try to troubleshoot the issue:
1. Power Cycle the Printer
- Turn off the printer and unplug it from the power source. Wait for about 60 seconds, then plug it back in and turn it on. This can sometimes reset any temporary errors.
2. Check for Obstructions Again
- Open the printer and carefully inspect the area around the print carriage for any small pieces of paper, debris, or anything that might be blocking its movement. Move the carriage manually (gently) to see if it feels stuck.
3. Remove and Reinstall Ink Cartridges
- Remove the ink cartridges and check for any packaging materials or tape that may not have been removed. Reinstall the cartridges securely.
4. Clean the Print Head and Carriage
- Use a soft, lint-free cloth to clean the print head and the area around it. Dust or debris can sometimes cause movement issues.
5. Check the Printer's Belt
- If you’re comfortable, check the belt that moves the print carriage. Ensure it’s not broken or misaligned.
6. Reset the Printer to Factory Defaults
- If the above steps don’t work, you can try resetting the printer to factory defaults. Check your printer’s manual for instructions on how to perform this reset.
7. Firmware Update
- Ensure your printer's firmware is up to date. Visit the HP Support website for any updates related to your model.
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”.
Rachel571
HP Support
.
Sneha_01- HP support
Sneha_01- HP support
Be alert for scammers posting fake support phone numbers and/or email addresses on the community.
If you think you have received a fake HP Support message, please report it to us by clicking on "Flag Post".
† The opinions expressed above are the personal opinions of the authors, not of HP. By using this site, you accept the Terms of Use and Rules of Participation.
Didn't find what you were looking for?
Ask the community
† The opinions expressed above are the personal opinions of the authors, not of HP. By using this site, you accept the <a href="https://www8.hp.com/us/en/terms-of-use.html" class="udrlinesmall">Terms of Use</a> and <a href="/t5/custom/page/page-id/hp.rulespage" class="udrlinesmall"> Rules of Participation</a>.