My HP LaserJet Pro M15w Printer suddenly started smearing black all over the paper it's printing. I

[Jeannette-de-B]

Out of the blue my printer (which I LOVE) has started smearing ink all over the page; I can see the text through it, somewhat, but it can't be used. I changed the ink cartridge and restarted everything but to no avail. Help! (did I mention how much I love this printer?)

HP LaserJet Pro M15w

[VikramTheGreat · Accepted solution]

Hi @Jeannette-de-B,

Welcome to HP Support Community.
 

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

If your HP LaserJet Pro M15w printer is suddenly smearing black all over the paper, the issue likely stems from the toner cartridge, fuser unit, or drum unit. 

1. Check and Replace the Toner Cartridge:

Genuine Cartridge:

Ensure you're using a genuine HP toner cartridge specifically designed for your printer model. Third-party or refilled cartridges can cause print quality issues.
 

Shake the Cartridge:

Gently shake the cartridge from side to side to redistribute the toner, as it might have settled unevenly.

CARTRIDGE CONTACT CLEANING

Try to clean the contacts quickly enough that the cartridges are not outside of the printer for more than 30 minutes. The ink can dry and clog the nozzles if the cartridges are outside of the printer for too long.

1, Remove the cartridges
2, Place the cartridges on a piece of paper with the nozzle plate facing up.
3, Unplug the printer power cord.
4, Lightly moisten the lint-free cleaning material with clean water.
5, Clean the cartridge contacts. Avoid touching the nozzles. Replace the cleaning material if it gets dirty.
6, Clean the carriage contacts. Use new cleaning material if the material used on the cartridge contacts is no longer clean.
7, Let the parts dry for five minutes before reinserting the cartridges.

I hope this helps.

Take care and have a good day.

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VikramTheGreat

HP Support