I have replaced both color and black cartridges and printer is only printing black

[CBeardsley]

I just bought new ink cartridges for the printer.  replaced both color and black.  I have cleaned, aligned and still will only print black.

[A_Gayathri]

Hi @CBeardsley ,

Welcome to The HP Support Community.  

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

I understand you are facing an issue with your HP OfficeJet 5255 is only printing in black despite replacing both the color and black ink cartridges, there are a few troubleshooting steps you can try to resolve the issue:
 

1. Check Printer Settings

• Ensure that the printer is not set to "Grayscale" or "Black and White" mode in the printer settings.
  • On your computer, go to Control Panel > Devices and Printers.
  • Right-click on the HP OfficeJet 5255 and select Printer Preferences.
  • Look for a setting like "Print in Grayscale" or "Black Ink Only" and make sure it's disabled.

2. Print a Test Page

• Print a test page from the printer to check if color ink is being used.
  • Go to Control Panel > Devices and Printers > HP OfficeJet 5255.
  • Right-click and select Printer Properties, then click on Print Test Page.
• If the test page also only prints in black, it might indicate a cartridge or printer hardware issue.

3. Verify Ink Levels

• Double-check the ink levels in both cartridges to make sure they are full and properly installed.
  • On the printer display, navigate to Settings > Tools > Estimated Ink Levels.
• If the printer doesn’t detect the color cartridge correctly, it may show low or empty.

4. Clean the Printhead

• Use the printer’s built-in utility to clean the printhead.
  • On the printer’s display, go to Settings > Tools > Clean Printhead.
• Run the cleaning cycle 2–3 times to make sure the nozzles are clear.

5. Check Cartridge Compatibility

• Ensure that the cartridges are genuine HP cartridges and compatible with your HP OfficeJet 5255 printer.
• Non-HP or refilled cartridges might cause issues with color printing.

6. Update Printer Firmware and Software Update the firmware on an HP printer

• Make sure the printer's firmware and software are up to date.
  • You can check for updates in the HP Smart App or on the HP Support website for the latest firmware.

7. Reset the Printer

• Perform a power reset to clear any potential glitches.
  1. Turn off the printer and unplug it from the power source.
  2. Wait 60 seconds, then plug the printer back in and turn it on.

Refer to this document: HP OfficeJet 5255 All-in-One Printer User manual

I hope this helps. 

Take care and have a good day.

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