Printer not printing correctly - alignment fails along with cartridge cleaning

[Jlhoke]

I’ve been having issues with any print jobs not printing correctly. Ink levels are good, but cleaning the cartridges isn’t working and alignment fails. Appears to be a known issues and steps tell me to contact HP but clicking the button doesn’t take me anywhere. 

[A_Gayathri]

Hi @Jlhoke,

Welcome to The HP Support Community.  

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

I understand you are facing an issue with your HP ENVY Photo 7858 is experiencing persistent print quality issues, and the usual cartridge cleaning and alignment procedures aren't helping. Given that the alignment fails and cleaning doesn't improve the print output, this could point to deeper issues, like clogged nozzles, a malfunctioning printhead, or firmware problems.
 

Here are some troubleshooting steps you can try:
 

1. Check the Paper

• Ensure you're using the right paper type and size. If the printer is trying to align using incorrect paper, alignment might fail.
• Avoid curled, wrinkled, or damaged paper as this can affect print alignment.

2. Deep Clean Printheads

Since basic cartridge cleaning hasn't helped, use the deeper cleaning option:

• From the printer’s control panel, go to Settings > Tools > Clean Cartridges and select Deep Cleaning (if available). This process might take longer than regular cleaning and can use more ink, but it can help unclog any blocked nozzles.

3. Remove, Inspect, and Reinsert Cartridges

• Power off the printer and unplug it.
• Open the printer and carefully remove the cartridges.
• Inspect the nozzles for any ink build-up or debris. You can gently clean the copper contacts and nozzles with a lint-free cloth and distilled water if needed.
• Allow them to dry before reinserting.

4. Reset the Printer

A reset can sometimes resolve alignment and calibration issues.

• With the printer powered on, disconnect the power cord from the back of the printer.
• Wait 60 seconds, then plug the printer back in and power it on.
• Attempt alignment again: Settings > Tools > Align Printer.

5. Update Printer Firmware Update the firmware on an HP printer

Outdated firmware can cause alignment issues and failure to clean cartridges properly. To update:

• Go to the HP Support site and download the latest firmware for your HP ENVY Photo 7858.
• Install the update on the printer following HP’s instructions.

6. Check for Hardware Issues

If the issue persists after deep cleaning and updating firmware, it could be a hardware problem with the printhead itself.
 

Refer to this document: HP ENVY Photo 7858 All-in-One Printer User manual

HP ENVY Photo 7100, 7800 printers - Color or black ink not printing, other print quality issues

I hope this helps. 

Take care and have a good day.

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