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HP Recommended
HP Color LaserJet M281fdw
Microsoft Windows 10 (64-bit)

First off, I do own this printer.  Problem is, this website won't recognize that I've added it.  I try to add the same SN again, and it says I've already added that device, but this page will not recognize that I did add a device, so I can't select it.

 

Now, I have been at this for some time.  Tried to print an image, and it came out really funky, with no color, and a lot of faded blah.  So checked, and yes my Magenta is low, really low.  The Cyan, not sure what's up with that, if the cartridge is empty, and I accidentally manually reset it (totally possible), or if it is something else.  

I have tried both Non-HP and HP toner cartridges and the device recognizes them, but no matter what I try it will not print Magenta or Cyan.  Bold black prints fine, but any greyscale or lighter black is almost unreadable.  (And those that ask, a difference of $300 is why I even tried Non-HP toner, because HP is really pricey)

 

Now, I don't use the printer much, this is a personal device, but I do take care of it, and expect that unlike an Inkjet it shouldn't gum up all the time.  My old HP1200 LaserJet was a beast.  And thus far I have been really happy with this printer.

 

Yet, we know, entropy is real, and things tend to degrade over time.  So, Is this a situation where I need to take the printer into a service center, or can I get some special cleaning solution or something that will resolve the issue, so it will start printing like it originally did?

 

Currently, I have tried a power purge, (remove toner, unplug, hold power button 15secs, wait 30secs, power up, and install the toner again).  I've tried a "cleaning" page, test pages, all forms of varying reports, and calibrations built in, and still nothing.  I know the Magenta is brand new (unboxed and installed 15 min ago), so if it was just the Cyan I'd know it was toner level.  This appears to be something else entirely.

Please Advise,

Jaeden "Sifo Dyas" al'Raec Ruiner

1 REPLY 1
HP Recommended

Hi @JaedenRuiner,

 

Welcome to the HP Support Community. 

 

I'd be glad to help you! 

 

I completely understand how frustrating it must be to deal with a printer that’s not delivering the quality you expect, especially after trying so many steps on your own. It’s clear that you take good care of your device and have been meticulous in troubleshooting the issue.

 

Since you’ve already performed power purges, calibration, and cleaning cycles—and the problem persists—it’s possible that there may be a hardware-related issue such as a problem with the toner delivery system or imaging drum.

 

At this stage, I recommend reaching out to HP Phone Support for a more in-depth diagnosis or potential servicing options. They’ll have the tools to assess any internal hardware faults or offer guidance on further steps, such as professional cleaning or replacement if necessary.

 

For that to happen, we will give you additional instructions/information via Private Message.

 

Please check your inbox on the forums page for the private message.

 

Please mark this post as Accepted Solution” if the issue is resolved and if you feel this reply was helpful click “Yes”.

Nal_NR-Moderator
I am an HP Employee

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