I have changed color ink cartridge cannot get color to print.

[Frenchlady1205]

I have changed printer cartridge 3 times thinking I have a bad cartridge.  All three show full cartridge but no color prints on diagnostics or anything sent to printer... only color.  i have tried cleaning turning on and off  nothing works.  sent from computer, phone, does not matter.  only black prints.  i am in middle of probate court hearings and desperately need printer  

[A_Gayathri · Accepted solution]

Hi @Frenchlady1205,

Welcome to The HP Support Community.  

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

I understand the color ink system in your HP ENVY 7640 e-All-in-One Printer might be having a hardware issue or a problem with ink flow. Here are some steps to help you troubleshoot and potentially resolve this problem:

1. Verify Printer Settings

• Check Print Preferences:
  • On your computer, go to Devices and Printers (Windows) or Printers & Scanners (Mac).
  • Select your HP ENVY 7640 and open Printing Preferences.
  • Ensure that the Print in Grayscale option is not selected.

2. Run the Printer's Diagnostics

• On the printer’s control panel, access Setup > Tools > Print Quality Report.
• Check if the color sections appear at all. If no color is printed:
  • Proceed to Clean the Printhead via the same menu.
  • Repeat the cleaning process 2-3 times, as sometimes ink can dry in the nozzles.

3. Check Ink Cartridge Compatibility and Alignment

• Make sure you’re using genuine HP ink cartridges. Third-party cartridges may cause compatibility issues.
• After inserting the cartridge:
  • Perform an Alignment Test from the printer’s menu under Setup > Tools > Align the Printer.
  • Ensure the alignment test prints in color.

4. Inspect the Printhead

• Open the printer and carefully remove the ink cartridges.
• Locate the printhead (the part the cartridges sit in) and inspect it for ink buildup or blockages.
• Use a slightly damp, lint-free cloth to gently clean the printhead nozzles and contacts. Avoid touching the copper contacts directly.

5. Update Printer Firmware Update the firmware on an HP printer

• Visit the HP Support website and download the latest firmware for the HP ENVY 7640.
• Follow the instructions to install the firmware, as updates may fix bugs affecting color printing.

6. Reset the Printer

• Perform a hard reset:
  1. Turn off the printer and unplug it from the power source.
  2. Wait for 2-3 minutes.
  3. Plug the printer back in and turn it on.

7. Test with HP Print and Scan Doctor HP Print and Scan Doctor

• Download the HP Print and Scan Doctor for Windows or Mac.
• Run the tool to diagnose and resolve issues with the printer's ink system.

Refer to this document:

I hope this helps. 

Take care and have a good day.

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