-
×InformationNeed Windows 11 help?Check documents on compatibility, FAQs, upgrade information and available fixes.
Windows 11 Support Center. -
-
×InformationNeed Windows 11 help?Check documents on compatibility, FAQs, upgrade information and available fixes.
Windows 11 Support Center. -
- HP Community
- Printers
- Printer Ink Cartridges & Print Quality
- New ink cartridges in C309g, Yellow not printing

Create an account on the HP Community to personalize your profile and ask a question
12-05-2023 09:52 AM
Just installed new ink cartridges in Photosmart C309g printer. Cyan, Magenta and black all work fine, but yellow will not print, or if it does, it is very faint. Tried cleaning printhead, aligning printer and manually cleaning print head. Still no luck. Suggestions?
12-08-2023 08:09 AM
Hi @KoloQuad,
Welcome to HP Support Community.
Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you.
If you've already tried cleaning the printhead and aligning the printer without success, there are a few additional steps you can take to troubleshoot and potentially resolve the issue.
Check Ink Level: Ensure that the yellow ink cartridge has enough ink. Sometimes, a low ink level can result in faint or no printing. You can check the ink levels through the printer software or on the printer display panel.
Use Genuine HP Cartridges: Make sure you are using genuine HP ink cartridges. Non-HP cartridges or refilled cartridges might not work properly and could cause printing issues.
Run Automated Cleaning Utility: Most printers, including HP Photosmart models, have an automated cleaning utility in the printer software. Run the utility specifically for the yellow printhead to try and clear any clogs.
Manual Printhead Cleaning: If the automated cleaning doesn't work, you can try manually cleaning the printhead. Here's a basic guide:
- Remove the yellow ink cartridge.
- Dampen a lint-free cloth with distilled water.
- Gently wipe the printhead to remove any dried ink or debris.
- Allow the printhead to dry completely before reinstalling the ink cartridge.
Check for Clogs: Inspect the printhead for any visible clogs or blockages. If you see any, try to carefully remove them using a soft, lint-free cloth or cotton swab.
Update Printer Firmware/Driver: Ensure that your printer firmware and drivers are up-to-date. Visit the HP website to check for the latest firmware and driver updates for your printer model.
Perform a Print Quality Diagnostic: Most HP printers have a diagnostic or print quality test that you can run. Refer to your printer's manual or the HP website for instructions on how to perform a print quality diagnostic. This test can sometimes identify the source of the problem.
If the issue persists after trying these steps, it may indicate a more serious problem with the printhead or printer hardware.
I hope this helps.
Take care and have a good day.
Please click “Accepted Solution” if you feel my post solved your issue, it will help others find the solution. Click the “Kudos/Thumbs Up" on the bottom right to say “Thanks” for helping!
Alden4
HP Support
HP Support Community Moderator