Possible air bubbles in line

[Lisa_Espo]

HP Smart Tank Plus 651.  Does not print yellow.  I have followed all suggested steps to no avail.  I do not know how to check for air bubble in the line as i cannot see the lines and even inserting my hand cannot identify a "line."  The print cartridges (heads) do not always return to the viewing area for access.  I have read that if they don't it is because there is no indication of a problem.  i am wondering if anyone else has experienced this situation.  thank you.

[Lisa_Espo]

I have spent days troubleshooting that my HP Smart tank 651 will not print yellow.  i have reset, turned off, run cartridge cleaning many many times.  Ink tank is full.  I have read that it may be a bubble in the line.  How the heck do I even see that?  Currenlty the print cartridges do NOT slide to the viewing area, which I have read indicates there is no problem with the cartridges....but there is a problem.  Please help.

[VikramTheGreat]

Hi @Lisa_Espo,

Welcome to the HP Support Community.
 

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

I understand how frustrating it is when your HP Smart Tank Plus 651 refuses to print yellow even after following all the recommended steps. Let’s go through this carefully and get your printer working again.

Step-by-Step Fix

1. Check Ink Levels & Vent

• Ensure the yellow ink tank has enough ink.
• Check the vent plug on the yellow tank; it should be open (not sealed).

2. Clean Printhead

• On the printer’s control panel: 
  • Go to Setup → Tools → Clean Printhead.
  • Start with Level 1 cleaning, then Level 2 if needed.
• Print a test page after cleaning.

3. Align Printhead

• Go to Setup → Tools → Align Printhead.
• This ensures proper ink flow and nozzle alignment.

4. Check for Air in Ink Lines

• Smart Tank printers have internal ink tubes that are not easily visible.
• If air is suspected: 
  • Perform Printhead Cleaning twice.
  • If still no yellow, you may need to prime the ink system using HP’s guided steps.

5. Update Firmware

• Go to HP’s official site: 👉 HP Smart Tank Plus 650 Wireless All-in-One series | HP® Support
• Install the latest firmware update.

6. If Yellow Still Missing

• The yellow printhead may be clogged beyond cleaning.
• HP recommends printhead replacement if cleaning and priming fail.

HP Official Guide👉:  HP Smart Tank 500, 600 Printers - Color or black ink not printing, other print quality issues | HP® ...

I hope this helps.

Take care and have an amazing day!
 

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Regards,

VikramTheGreat