Officer 6978 only prints blue

[NP1982]

Printer only prints blue.  I’ve changed all cartridges, updated all drivers and firmware, and used HP utility to do three levels of printer head cleaning.   Not sure what else to do!  Thanks in advance!

[Max3Aj]

Hi @NP1982, 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 printhead issue where it's only printing blue. Since you've already replaced the cartridges, updated drivers and firmware, and performed multiple printhead cleanings, here are some additional steps to try:

Check Ink Levels & Cartridge Venting

• Even though you replaced the cartridges, ensure all colors have ink.
• Remove each cartridge and check if the vent (small orange pull-tab or slit) is clear of any blockage.

Perform a Hard Reset

• Turn off the printer and unplug it from power for 5 minutes.
• Plug it back in, turn it on, and try printing again.

Check Nozzle Print Test

• Print a Print Quality Report from Printer Settings > Reports > Print Quality Report.
• If only blue appears, it confirms that the other nozzles are clogged or malfunctioning.

Manually Clean the Printhead

• Remove cartridges and lift the printhead latch.
• Take out the printhead carefully.
• Dampen a lint-free cloth with distilled water and wipe the printhead nozzles (where ink comes out).
• Let it dry for 5-10 minutes, reinstall, and retry.

Try a Different Paper Type

• Sometimes, ink adhesion issues occur based on paper type. Try printing on plain paper or a different brand.

Run a Printhead Alignment

• Go to Settings > Printer Maintenance > Align Printhead and follow the on-screen steps.

Reset Printer to Factory Defaults

• On the printer screen, go to Setup > Printer Maintenance > Restore Defaults and confirm.
• This resets all settings, which might resolve firmware/software-related issues.

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