My printer won't print specifically black.

[EskimoUlu]

I've printed the test page, and run the printhead cleaner.  I've even tried a new black cartridge.  When I print the test page the 3 colors show up correctly on the page, but Black isn't, but it shows dark and light gray in that box, just not black.

[Sneha_01]

Hi @EskimoUlu 

Welcome to HP Support Community.

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

It sounds like you're facing an issue where the black ink isn't printing correctly on your HP ENVY Pro 6455 All-in-One Printer, even though the color cartridges are working fine. You've already tried the printhead cleaning and installed a new black cartridge, so let's troubleshoot the issue further with a few additional steps.

1. Double-Check Cartridge Installation

Sometimes, the black ink cartridge might not be seated properly or the protective tape might not have been fully removed. Even a slight misalignment can prevent the ink from flowing correctly.

• Check the Black Cartridge: Open the printer and remove the black ink cartridge. Ensure that the protective tape or plastic covering has been fully removed from the ink cartridge.
• Re-seat the Cartridge: Reinsert the black ink cartridge, making sure it clicks into place securely.

2. Perform Another Printhead Cleaning

You mentioned running the printhead cleaner, but it might be helpful to try it a couple of times in succession.

1. From the Printer's Control Panel:
   • Go to Setup > Printer Maintenance > Clean Printhead.
   • Run the cleaning cycle, and after it's complete, try printing again.
2. Print a Test Page: After the cleaning, print a test page again to see if the black ink starts printing properly.

If the first cleaning didn’t resolve the issue, try running the cleaning cycle 2-3 times to make sure the printhead is completely clear of any clogs.

3. Check for Ink Flow in the Printhead

If the cleaning cycle doesn’t resolve the issue, you may need to manually inspect the printhead for any clogs or blockages in the black ink nozzle.

• Inspect the Printhead: Take out the ink cartridges and carefully look at the printhead where the ink is dispensed. Sometimes dried ink can clog the nozzles.
• Clean the Printhead Nozzles: Use a soft lint-free cloth or a cotton swab lightly dampened with distilled water to clean around the printhead nozzles. Be gentle, and avoid touching the contacts on the printhead to prevent any damage.

4. Check the Printer’s Software/Settings

Sometimes, issues with printing could be related to settings within the printer software or operating system.

• Check the Printer Settings: On your computer, go to Settings > Devices > Printers & Scanners > HP ENVY Pro 6455 > Manage > Printing Preferences.
  • Make sure that the Black & White or Grayscale setting is not selected for color printing.
• Check Ink Levels: Ensure that the printer software on your computer shows that the black ink cartridge has sufficient ink. Sometimes, the cartridge might show as full but is actually empty due to faulty manufacturing or issues with the chip on the cartridge.

I hope this helps.

Take care and have a good day.

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

Rachel571

HP Support