OfficeJet Pro 6978 is printing blank pages

[LiZZ1066]

I replaced the black ink cartridge with correct HP ink. Diagnostics show ink level is good, that everything is good with printer.  I have cleaned the printhead 5 times now.  It will only print blank pages.

[Max3Aj]

Hi @LiZZ1066, Welcome to HP Support Community. 

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

It sounds like your HP OfficeJet Pro 6978 is experiencing a common issue where the black ink is not printing despite a full cartridge and multiple printhead cleanings. Here are some troubleshooting steps you can try:

Perform a Hard Reset

1. Turn off the printer and unplug it from the power source.
2. Wait for 60 seconds, then plug it back in and turn it on.
3. Try printing again.

Check for Clogged Printhead Manually

If automatic cleaning hasn’t worked, the printhead may be clogged. Try these steps:

1. Remove the black ink cartridge.
2. Use a lint-free cloth dampened with distilled water to gently wipe the printhead nozzle area where ink is dispensed.
3. Let it air dry for a few minutes and reinsert the cartridge.
4. Try printing again.

Perform a Second-Level Printhead Cleaning

Since you've already cleaned the printhead multiple times, try the second-level cleaning (if available in the printer menu).

1. Go to Settings > Printer Maintenance > Clean Printhead and choose the second or third level cleaning option.
2. Run a test print.

 Try Printing in Grayscale or Color Only

• Go to Printer Preferences > Advanced Settings and try printing in "Grayscale - High Quality" mode (this forces the printer to use color ink to generate black).
• If it prints, the black ink system is likely clogged.

Remove and Reseat the Printhead (If Possible)

1. Turn off the printer and unplug it.
2. Open the printhead access door and remove the ink cartridges.
3. If your model allows, lift and remove the printhead.
4. Clean the electrical contacts on both the printhead and the printer with a lint-free cloth.
5. Reinsert the printhead and cartridges, then turn on the printer.

Update or Reinstall the Firmware

Sometimes, a firmware update can resolve print issues:

• Visit HP support website and check for firmware updates.
• Download and install any available updates.
• Restart the printer and test again.

Try a Different Cartridge

Even though the ink level appears full, the cartridge itself may be faulty. If possible, test with another genuine HP black ink cartridge.

Perform a Semi-Full Reset

If nothing works, a semi-full reset can restore printer settings to default:

1. Unplug the printer and wait 60 seconds.
2. Press and hold # and 3 on the printer's control panel while plugging it back in.
3. Release the buttons when the printer turns on.
4. Try printing again.

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! 

Max3Aj

HP Support