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‎07-15-2025 12:28 PM

HP Recommended

Hi I have a hp Photosmart c309a series and I keep having ink cartridge issues.

1 REPLY 1

‎07-17-2025 05:38 AM

HP Recommended

@cpillar89, Welcome to HP Support Community. 

 

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

The "Ink System Failure" error on your HP Photosmart C309a series printer is a common issue and can usually be resolved with a few troubleshooting steps. Here's what you can try:

Reset the Printer

  • Turn off the printer using the Power button.
  • Unplug the power cord from the back of the printer and from the wall outlet.
  • Wait for 60 seconds.
  • Plug the power cord directly into a wall outlet (avoid power strips).
  • Reconnect the power cord to the printer and turn it on.

Check and Clean the Cartridges

  • Open the cartridge access door.
  • Remove each cartridge and inspect the vent area (small hole on top).
  • If you see any adhesive or debris, gently clean it with a pin or paperclip.
  • Reinsert the cartridges into their correct color-coded slots.

Do not leave cartridges outside the printer for more than 30 minutes.

Replace Faulty Cartridges

  • If cleaning doesn’t help, try replacing the cartridges with genuine HP cartridges.
  • Faulty or third-party cartridges can sometimes trigger this error.

Printhead Cleaning (if applicable)

  • From the printer control panel, go to Setup > Tools > Clean Printhead.
  • Follow the on-screen instructions.

If the issue persists after trying the above steps, the printhead may need replacement or the printer may require servicing. We suggest you please visit the nearest HP authorized service center, the service team will check and assist you. 
Kindly follow this link to locate the nearest HP service center: HP® Service Center Locator - United States | HP® Support
(Select the country from the dropdown menu and enter the city name or pincode) 
 

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. Select "Yes" on the bottom left to say “Thanks” for helping! 

 

Max3Aj

HP Support 

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