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- HP Community
- Printers
- Printer Ink Cartridges & Print Quality
- Printer is offline, changed black toner, used or counterfeit...

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01-08-2025 04:01 PM
I have a HP Color LaserJet MFP M182nw printer. Message said black ink very low. I replaced the black ink cartridge and then message read, " used or counterfeit cartridges" . The level of black shows very low even with the new cartridge installed. I have unplugged the printer cord as well as from the wall outlet - waited over a minute and still received the same message. Printer is "offline". I am using a 2 year old MacBook Pro, Safari browser, MacOS Sequoia 15.2. I appreciate any support you can offer.
01-10-2025 06:26 AM
Hi @Paultski,
Welcome to HP Support Community.
Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you.
The issue you're experiencing with your HP Color LaserJet MFP M182nw printer may stem from a compatibility or recognition problem with the replacement toner cartridge. Here's a step-by-step guide to help resolve it.
Check Cartridge Compatibility
- Ensure the replacement black toner cartridge is compatible with your printer. The correct cartridge for the HP Color LaserJet MFP M182nw is HP 215A or HP 215X.
- Verify that it is a genuine HP cartridge. If you're using a third-party or remanufactured cartridge, it might trigger the "used or counterfeit cartridges" message.
Reset the Printer
You've already unplugged and reconnected the printer, but let's try a more thorough reset:
- Turn off the printer and unplug it.
- Remove the new cartridge.
- Wait for about 2-3 minutes.
- Reinstall the cartridge securely and ensure there’s no protective tape or packaging left on the cartridge.
- Plug in and turn on the printer.
Update Printer Firmware
An outdated printer firmware could cause recognition issues. Update the firmware:
- Visit the HP Software and Driver Downloads page for your printer model.
- Download and install the latest firmware for your printer using your MacBook Pro.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the update.
Reset Supplies Settings
Resetting the printer’s settings to allow the use of non-HP cartridges might help:
- On the printer's control panel, navigate to Setup > Service > Restore Defaults.
- After resetting, reconfigure the printer settings and reconnect to your network.
Resolve Offline Status
To bring the printer online:
- On your MacBook Pro:
- Go to System Preferences > Printers & Scanners.
- Select your printer and click Open Print Queue.
- If the printer shows "Paused," click Resume.
- Remove and re-add the printer:
- Click the - button to remove the printer.
- Click the + button to add it back.
- Make sure the printer is connected to the correct WiFi network.
HP Support Community Moderator
01-10-2025 06:27 AM
Troubleshoot HP Smart App
- Open the HP Smart App on your MacBook or install it from the Mac App Store.
- Add the printer to the app and check the status.
- Run the "Printer Diagnostics" tool within the app.
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!
Alden4
HP Support
HP Support Community Moderator
01-16-2025 04:19 AM
Thank you for your suggestions. I have followed your instructions and still receive the message "printer is offline". I'm at a loss of what to do next and trust you can assist me. I work from home and have need of a printer everyday. Thank you for taking an interest to resolve my case.