• ×
    Information
    Need Windows 11 help?
    Check documents on compatibility, FAQs, upgrade information and available fixes.
    Windows 11 Support Center.
  • post a message
  • ×
    Information
    Need Windows 11 help?
    Check documents on compatibility, FAQs, upgrade information and available fixes.
    Windows 11 Support Center.
  • post a message
Guidelines
If you're having print quality issues Click here for more tips!
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.
HP Recommended
HP ENVY Photo 7855 All-in-One Printer

I have inserted a new black cartridge but print quality is poor, with gaps in the black printing in several places.  I have run the cleaning function 4 times, each with the same result. I have taken out the cartridge and reinserted. I have powered off and powered back on. Nothing fixes it.

3 REPLIES 3
HP Recommended

Hi @asteenw,

 

Welcome to HP Support Community.

 

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

 

It sounds like you've already tried many of the standard troubleshooting steps for this issue. Here are a few additional steps you can try.

 

Check Cartridge and Ink Levels: Make sure that the new cartridge is properly seated and not defective. Sometimes, new cartridges can be faulty. Check the ink levels to ensure the cartridge is full.

Clean Printhead Manually:

  • Open the printer and locate the printhead (consult your printer’s manual if needed).
  • Remove the printhead carefully.
  • Use a soft, lint-free cloth moistened with distilled water or a solution specifically designed for cleaning printheads to gently clean the printhead’s contacts and the area where the ink comes out.
  • Let the printhead dry completely before reinserting it.

Perform a Deep Cleaning: Some printers have a deep cleaning function that can be more thorough than the standard cleaning process. Check your printer’s settings for this option and run it if available.

Check for Paper Residue or Debris: Sometimes, paper residue or debris inside the printer can affect print quality. Make sure the paper path is clean.

Inspect the Ink Cartridge Area: Ensure that there are no obstructions or blockages around the cartridge area that might affect ink flow.

Update Printer Firmware: Make sure your printer's firmware is up to date, as firmware updates can sometimes resolve printing issues.

Check for Software Issues: Ensure that the printer drivers and software on your computer are up to date. Sometimes, software issues can affect print quality.

 

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 

Raj_05
HP Support Community Moderator
HP Recommended

Thanks for your response. None of those things have led to any improvement. I think that the cartridge is faulty. Is there a way to exchange it for another one?

HP Recommended

Hi @asteenw,

 

Thank you for your response, 

 

I'm sending a private message to assist you with the next action.

 

Please check your Private message icon on the upper right corner of your HP Community profile Next, to your profile Name, you should see a little blue envelope, please click on it or simply click on this link.

 

I hope this helps! Keep me posted.

 

Alden4

HP Support 

Raj_05
HP Support Community Moderator
† 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>.