Missing Printhead Error

[Better2gether]

HP Smart Tank won't print due to "Printheads Missing" error. I believe only the black printhead has a problem. When I open up the printer, I can see the tubes that carry to color ink to the color printhead are full. The tube, taking the black ink to the printhead, is full as it leaves the black reservoir but runs out before it reaches the black printhead, in other words black ink is not making it to the printhead. The level of black ink is low but I have not received a message indicating that it's time to refill the black ink. I estimate there is probably 20% of black ink remaining in the reservoir. 

So far I have tried:

restarting the printer

reseating the printheads

Looking forward to any ideas you have for resolving this issue. 

Thank you!

[VikramTheGreat]

Hi @Better2gether,

Welcome to the HP Support Community.
 

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

Thank you for providing the details and the troubleshooting you've already completed. I'd be happy to help further. First, could you please let us know the exact HP Smart Tank model (for example, Smart Tank 500, 580, 6000 series, 7000 series, etc.)? The available troubleshooting steps can vary by model.
 

A few questions as well:

• What is the exact message shown on the printer? Does it specifically say "Printheads Missing", or does it mention a particular printhead?
• Are any printhead lights blinking on the printer?
• Have the printheads ever been replaced, or are these the original printheads that came with the printer?
• Is the printer able to make a copy from the control panel, or does the same error prevent all functions?

Based on what you've described, the printer is currently reporting a printhead detection issue. Even though the black ink tube appears to have less visible ink near the printhead, a low ink level alone would not normally cause a "Printheads Missing" error. This error is usually related to the printer not being able to properly detect or communicate with the printhead.

Since you've already:

• Restarted the printer
• Reseated the printheads
   

Please also try the following:

1. Turn the printer on.
2. Open the printhead access area.
3. Remove the black printhead.
4. Check the electrical contacts on the printhead and inside the carriage for any ink, debris, or damage.
5. Reinstall the black printhead firmly until it is fully seated and the latch is secured.
6. Close the access door and allow the printer to initialize.
    

If the error remains, please share:

• The exact printer model.
• A photo of the printer display or the blinking lights.
• Whether the error points to the black printhead specifically or both printheads.

With those details, we can help determine whether this is a printhead issue, an ink system issue, or whether the printhead may need replacement.

I hope this helps.

Take care and have an amazing day!