Message said printer error

[DeeBee69]

Have used my HP 8600 for 10 years. My PC is Windows 10 OS. Got a packaged box of XL cartridges about a year ago. Did not realize they were genuine HP, but refilled...not by HP. Have swapped two of the cartridges in the past months, Then, I replaced the Cyan and when I closed the front cover, I get the "there is a problem with the printer or ink system". THAT is when I discovered the cartridges are refurb's. Ordered a genuine complete set of HP cartridges...installed them...same error message. Uninstall and reinstall the software, didi all the unplug routine etc.  I was hopeful, but same message. I will add that I did remove the cartridge holder from the printer and thoroughly cleaned with alcohol and Q-tips. I am anxious for a suggestion.

[Kuroi_Kenshi]

Hi @DeeBee69,

Welcome to the HP Support Community! 

Thanks for reaching out about your query regarding error message on your printer!  

We're thrilled to have the opportunity to assist you and provide a solution.

Your trusty HP 8600 has been your printing sidekick for a decade, and now it’s throwing an error message tantrum—definitely not the kind of loyalty you expected! You've already done the ink swap, the cleaning mission, and the classic unplug-replug routine, but that pesky message is still clinging on. Let's see if we can shake it loose and get your printer back to business.

Reset the Printer

• Turn OFF the printer and unplug it from the power source.
• Wait 1-2 minutes.
• Plug it back in and turn it ON.
• Check if the error message is gone.

Clean the Printhead Again (Deep Cleaning)

Even though you cleaned it before, some ink residue may still be blocking the nozzles.
Try this method:

• Remove the cartridges.
• Take out the printhead assembly (if removable).
• Soak the bottom of the printhead in warm distilled water (not alcohol) for 5–10 minutes.
• Let it dry completely (air-dry for at least 1 hour).
• Reinstall the printhead and cartridges.
• Try printing again.

Perform a Printhead Cleaning via Printer Menu

• On the printer’s touchscreen, go to:
  • Setup → Tools → Clean Printhead.
• Run multiple cleaning cycles (at least 2–3 times).

Hard Reset the Printer

This resets internal errors:

• Remove all cartridges.
• Unplug the printer without turning it off.
• Hold down the power button for 30 seconds.
• Plug it back in and turn it on.
• Reinsert the cartridges and see if the error disappears.

 

[Kuroi_Kenshi]

Check for Firmware Issues

If the printer firmware detects third-party ink cartridges, it might block them. Try rolling back the firmware:

• Go to HP’s official website → Download an older firmware version.
• Install it and restart your printer.

Replace the Printhead (If Necessary)

If nothing works, the printhead may be faulty.

• The HP OfficeJet Pro 8600 has a removable printhead, which can be replaced.
• You can buy a replacement printhead online (search for HP 950/951 Printhead).

At this point, your 8600 has been through a lot, and if these steps don’t clear up the error, there might be a deeper issue with the printhead or firmware. But don’t worry, you’re not out of options yet! If the problem persists, let me know. Fingers crossed we can get your printer back in action soon! 🤞🖨️

I'm glad I could help! 😊 If this resolved your issue, please mark it as "Accepted Solution" and click "Yes" on "Was this reply helpful?"—your feedback not only keeps us going but also helps others find the solution faster! 👍✨

Take care and have an amazing day ahead! 🚀

Best regards,

[DeeBee69]

KK, thank you for your (2) responses. I had/have performed the many recommended actions to restore my HP 8600 to operate. It has been locked on the screen that says the printer is not available...and I should unplug etc. It has not shown the home screen to clean, print test page etc. since the time it told me to replace one ink cartridge. 

Long story short, after a full R&R of all genuine HP cartridges, I am beyond the cost of a new printer. I have replaced my HP 8600 with an Epson 2850. As a loyal HP user for over 20 years, this was not an easy choice. My belief is that HP used data from my 8600 and when I used an 'non HP' product, my printer was locked down. 

Thank you for your efforts to help.

[Sneha_01]

Hi @DeeBee69,

Thank you for your response, I'm really sorry to hear about the trouble you've had with your HP 8600—sounds frustrating, especially after so many years of loyal use! It’s understandable that you'd feel a bit let down by that situation. 

We always recommend to us HP cartridges to avoid such scenarios.

Please feel free to reply to us and we will be more than happy to help you.

Please mark this post as “Accepted Solution” if the issue is resolved and if you feel this reply was helpful click “Yes”.

Take care and have a great day ahead!

[DeeBee69]

I left out many details for brevity. I had purchased a full set of HP in cartridges. ALL were the XL, box set. Installed the black about a year ago. Then about 6 months ago I installed the magenta. A month ago I was told yellow needed replacement. I installed a new yellow. That began my journey of a locked printer. I never got an error code..just a message that I was not installing an HP cartridge and I should unplug the printer, and turn it off and on etc. I did ALL of these things many times. My other efforts were uninstall the printer and begin again as a new printer install. Uninstall and reinstall the HP software. Remove the print head, soak in warm water, air dry and reinstall. The same screen on my printer never changed. It would not allow me to clean, align the head, print a test page. I then bought a full HP set of XL cartridges, new in the box.  This was only because the HP cartridges I was using when the error screen occurred were indeed refilled genuine HP cartridges, something I never knew. I installed the new genuine XP set of cartridges. Proceeded as if all would be fixed. Same error screen as the previous weeks. The full set of XL ink cost me more than a new printer. As I have been an HP devotee for over 25 years, this experience ended my HP dedication.  I purchased a full feature Epson that has ink wells, which is poured from a 65ml bottle. A full set of ink is $23. 

It is only my opinion that HP observed my usage of an ink cartridge that was not an authorized product and my printer was on 'lockdown'. Just my opinion. I spent too much time and money on my 8600. 

Thank you for your interest and response. Unfortunately I have moved on from HP products.

[Kuroi_Kenshi]

@DeeBee69,

Thank you for the response.

I completely understand how frustrating this experience must have been for you, especially after years of loyalty to HP. It’s never ideal when a printer doesn’t work as expected, and I appreciate the time and effort you put into troubleshooting.

I do want to clarify that HP does not "lock down" printers; our dynamic security feature is designed to protect the integrity of the printer and ensure the best performance by preventing the use of cartridges that might not meet quality and reliability standards. That being said, I truly regret that this led to such an inconvenience for you.

While you’ve moved on, I sincerely appreciate your past support and your candid feedback. If there’s ever anything I can do to assist or clarify in the future, don’t hesitate to reach out. Wishing you smooth printing with your new setup!

Take care and have an amazing day ahead! 🚀

Best regards,