I have a smear on the left side of the paper. For example there is picture up at the top of the left

[kotto022]

I have a smear on the left side of the paper. For example there is picture up at the top of the left side of page and further down the page you can see the picture just not clearly. I can't print forms or documents because of the smear on the left side,

[Raj_05]

Hi @kotto022,

Welcome to HP Support Community.  

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

If you're experiencing smearing on the left side of the paper when printing with your HP Color LaserJet Pro M252dw, there could be a few possible causes for this issue. Below are some troubleshooting steps you can follow to identify and potentially resolve the problem.

• Check the Toner Cartridges: Make sure the toner cartridges are properly installed and securely seated. If a toner cartridge is loose or not seated correctly, it may cause smearing.
• Inspect the Imaging Drum: The imaging drum is responsible for transferring toner onto the paper. Check the imaging drum for any visible damage or defects. If you notice any issues, you may need to replace the drum.
• Clean the Printer: Dirt, dust, or toner particles can accumulate inside the printer and cause smearing. Carefully clean the printer's interior, especially the roller and paper path, using a soft, lint-free cloth.
• Check the Paper: Ensure that you are using the correct type and size of paper that is compatible with your printer. Low-quality or incompatible paper can lead to smudging.
• Adjust Paper Settings: Sometimes, incorrect paper settings can cause printing issues. Make sure that the paper size and type settings in the printer driver match the actual paper loaded in the tray.
• Update Printer Firmware: Check the HP website for any available firmware updates for your printer model. Updating the firmware can sometimes resolve printing problems.
• Run a Cleaning Cycle: Your printer may have a cleaning cycle option that helps clean the drum and other internal components. Refer to the printer's manual for instructions on how to perform this cleaning process.
• Replace Toner Cartridges: If the toner cartridges are running low or are near their end of life, they may not distribute toner evenly, resulting in smearing. Consider replacing any low or depleted cartridges.
• Print a Test Page: Print a test page and examine if the smearing persists. This will help you identify whether the issue is specific to certain documents or if it's a consistent problem.

I hope this helps. 
 

Take care and have a good day.

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Alden4
HP Support