Message that ink cartridge is empty when it isn't

[Mikedup]

I have 2 HP printers and have the same problem with both. HP OfficeJet Pro 9125e. HP OfficeJet Pro 9125e.

When one ink cartridge runs out, I get the message that each of the other cartridges has to be replaced. In each case, only one cartridge is empty. I'm throwing away cartridges that are half full. Neither will let me use black and white. This leaves me without a printer and copier. 

Wasteful and not good for the environment. HP won't let customers use refilled cartridges on either, so they are worthless.

My 9135 hasn't been working in months. I have a case number which is worthless. Case Number [edited]has been open since January. I needed a printer and copier. I had to install all new cartridges. All 3 went well. Then the magenta gave me a message. It was half full. I replaced it and got an error message. After 3 replacements, I contacted HP in Jan. No response. The carriage won't move, no jambs. Stupid me. I bought another HP. 

I bought an HP because I've been pleased with all of my other HP printers. Replaced one because it was a wired printer, it was working perfectly. My last one gave me the replace print head message. That was a big mistake. I gave it to someone who could fix it. It's running. Wish I had taken it to be repaired. 

Paper tray quality is the worst. Without the back adjustment envelopes, cards, etc all slide around. Even the paper slides forward, I had to a small piece of thin cardboard behind the paper to keep it in place. My other option was to bring my laptop next to the printer, so I don't need to walk back and forth. At least the software corrected that problem, so I didn't need to check the printer every time I printed something. The lower tray on the 9135 is better but that printer hasn't worked since January. 

I'm getting ready to start a project that is going to involve a lot of printing and copying. This is the first time I'm concerned about being able to print and copy. I'm probably going to make my copies at Staples, even though it's a distance, it will save time and aggravation and maybe money since most is in black and white. I will be discarding almost full cartridges.

These are my last HP products, including my HP laptop. I cannot be without a laptop or printer and copier. Quality is horrible. Customer assistance and service is non-existent. 

[Kuroi_Kenshi]

Hi @Mikedup,

Welcome to the HP Support Community! 

Thanks for reaching out about your query regarding your printer!

Thank you for taking the time to share your detailed feedback, and I want to start by sincerely apologizing for the ongoing frustration and inconvenience you’ve experienced with your HP OfficeJet Pro 9125e printers.

We understand how critical it is for your printer and copier to work reliably, especially when you're starting a new project, and we're genuinely sorry that you've been left without a dependable solution. Please know that this is not the experience we want you to have with HP.

We’ve reviewed your concerns, and I’d like to personally assist in addressing the issues you're facing:

Ink Cartridge Detection Issue

It’s certainly not expected behavior for all cartridges to require replacement when only one is low or empty. This could point to a firmware-related issue or a contact alignment concern. We strongly recommend:

Gently cleaning the copper contacts on the affected cartridge and inside the carriage with a lint-free cloth and isopropyl alcohol.

Reinstalling the cartridges and restarting the printer using a manual power reset (unplugging the printer from both wall and printer side, waiting 60 seconds, and reconnecting).

Error Message with Half-Full Cartridges

HP printers are designed to provide accurate ink level readings, but in rare cases, the chip may miscommunicate with the printer.

Printing Limitations with Color Ink

We understand how frustrating it is not to be able to print in black and white when a color cartridge is low. Some models in the HP+ ecosystem require all cartridges to be functional for optimal print quality, but we also understand the need for flexibility. While firmware limitations may apply, I would be happy to explore if your model supports “black ink only” mode under certain conditions.

Paper Tray & Build Concerns

Your input about the paper tray design is incredibly valuable, and I’ve forwarded this feedback to relevant team. We are always working to improve user experience based on customer insights like yours.

I hope this helps.

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! 👍✨

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Best regards,