Printer carriage gets stuck on the right, but there are no obstructions

[ShelliK]

The printer carriage gets stuck on the right, but there are no obstructions. Can this be fixed?

[Max3Aj]

@ShelliK, Welcome to HP Support Community. 

Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you. 
If your HP OfficeJet Pro 8025e is experiencing a stuck carriage issue, even without any visible obstruction, you can follow these troubleshooting steps to potentially resolve the problem:

🔧 Step 1: Power Reset the Printer

1. Turn Off the Printer: Press the power button to turn off the printer.
2. Unplug the Power Cord: Disconnect the power cord from both the printer and the wall outlet.
3. Wait 60 Seconds: Allow the printer to sit unplugged for a minute.
4. Plug the Power Cord Back In: Connect the power cord directly to the wall outlet (avoid using surge protectors).
5. Turn the Printer Back On: Press the power button to turn the printer on.

This process can help clear minor firmware glitches and reset the carriage.

🔍 Step 2: Manually Move the Carriage

1. Open the Ink Access Door: This will give you access to the ink carriage.
2. Check if the Carriage is Stuck: If it’s still stuck on the right side, gently try to move it to the center with your hand. Be careful not to force it—if you feel resistance, stop and proceed to the next step.
3. Inspect for Obstructions: Use a flashlight to look inside for:
   • Torn paper bits
   • Dried ink or debris on the carriage path
   • Dirty or bent paper jam sensors

🧼 Step 3: Clean the Carriage Path

• Use a lint-free cloth slightly dampened with distilled water to:
  • Wipe the carriage rails.
  • Clean any visible ink residue.
• Allow the area to dry completely before closing the printer.

🧩 Step 4: Reinstall Ink Cartridges

1. Turn Off the Printer: Ensure the printer is powered off.
2. Open the Ink Access Door: Access the cartridges.
3. Remove and Reseat the Cartridges: Take out all cartridges and then firmly reseat them.
4. Close the Door and Power On: Close the ink access door and turn the printer back on.

Sometimes, a misaligned cartridge can cause the carriage to halt.

🔄 Step 5: Update Firmware (if possible)

If the printer becomes accessible:

• Navigate to Settings > Printer Maintenance > Update the Printer from the printer display.
• Alternatively, use the HP Smart app on your PC to check for firmware updates.

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