Printer NOT PRINTING color!!???

Gypsie2012 · ‎02-10-2025

This printer does not print color, even though it requires both black & white cartridges and tricolor !!! I cannot even begin to tell you how disappointed I am, trying to troubleshoot this terrible product! Can ANYONE assist me please ? Thanks in advance!

Max3Aj · ‎02-14-2025

Hi @Gypsie2012, Welcome to HP Support Community.

Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you.
I understand how frustrating it can be when a printer refuses to print in color, especially when everything seems to be in place. Let's go through some steps to troubleshoot the issue.

Check Ink Levels

Even though the printer requires both black and color cartridges, if the color cartridge is empty or low, it may not print in color.

Open HP Smart on your Mac.
Click on Printer Status to check the ink levels.
If the color cartridge is low or empty, replace it.

Clean the Printhead

A clogged printhead can prevent color printing.

Open HP Smart > Click Printer Settings > Maintenance > Clean Printhead.
Run the cleaning cycle and print a test page.

Verify Print Settings

Sometimes, the issue is caused by incorrect print settings.

When printing a document, click File > Print.
Expand the print settings by clicking Show Details.
Make sure the Color option is selected (not "Grayscale" or "Black & White").
Try printing again.

Check Printer Defaults on macOS

Go to System Preferences > Printers & Scanners.
Select your HP DeskJet 2855e.
Click Options & Supplies > Utility > Open Printer Utility.
Look for any color-related settings and ensure they are enabled.

Update or Reinstall Drivers

If the printer driver is outdated or corrupted, it may cause issues.

Go to HP website and download the latest HP Easy Start for macOS Monterey.
Uninstall the current printer by going to System Preferences > Printers & Scanners, selecting your printer, and clicking Remove (-).
Reinstall using HP Easy Start.

Max3Aj · ‎02-14-2025

Print a Color Diagnostic Page

This can help determine if the issue is software-related or a hardware problem.

On the printer, press the Wireless + Cancel buttons together to print a test page.
If color appears on this page but not in your prints, it's likely a software/driver issue.

Check for Firmware Updates

Sometimes, a firmware update resolves printing problems.

Open HP Smart > Printer Settings > Printer Updates.
Install any available firmware updates.

Try a Different Device

If possible, try printing from another macOS or Windows device to check if the issue is with the printer or the Mac.

Reset the Printing System (Last Resort)

If nothing works, resetting the printing system might help.

Go to System Preferences > Printers & Scanners.
Right-click anywhere in the printer list and choose Reset Printing System.
Re-add the printer and 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

Gypsie2012 · ‎02-14-2025

Thank you for this helpful answer.

Do note that HP does not offer any driver(s) or update for Mac but I will

try everything else!

I appreciate you helping me!

Thanks

Max3Aj · ‎02-14-2025

Hi @Gypsie2012, Thank you for your response.
And You're very welcome! I appreciate you giving these troubleshooting steps a shot.

You're right—HP relies on AirPrint for macOS instead of dedicated drivers for many newer printers, including the DeskJet 2855e.

If my response helped resolve your issue, kindly click “Accepted Solution” — it will help others find their way to the solution as well. And if you’d like to show appreciation, clicking the “Kudos/Thumbs Up” at the bottom right will let me know!

Take care and have an amazing day ahead!

Warm regards,