Printer will not print color

[Jazzy1992]

I am having trouble getting my printer to print in color. I've already tried to troubleshoot, I've uninstalled and reinstalled, and nothing is working. 

[Max3Aj]

@Jazzy1992, Welcome to HP Support Community. 

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

If your HP ENVY 4520 All-in-One Printer is not printing in color even after troubleshooting, uninstalling, and reinstalling, here are some step-by-step solutions to address the issue on Windows 11:

Check Ink Levels

• Open the HP Smart app.
• Select your printer > Estimated Ink Levels.
• Ensure the tri-color cartridge has sufficient ink.

Print Settings in Windows 11

Sometimes Windows defaults to grayscale. Here’s how to check:

1. Press Win + R, type control printers, press Enter.
2. Right-click on HP ENVY 4520 > Printing Preferences.
3. Look for Color or Advanced settings.
4. Ensure:

• “Print in Grayscale” is unchecked.
• “Color” is selected instead of “Black & White”.

Click Apply > OK.
 

Use HP Smart App or Printer Software

Try printing a color document from the HP Smart app:

• Open HP Smart.
• Click Print Documents > select a known color PDF.
• Print it and see if color works.

Print a Color Test Page

Use the control panel:

• Tap the Settings icon (gear on the screen).
• Go to Tools > Print Quality Report.
• This should print a color test page.
  If the test page does not print color, it may indicate a hardware or cartridge issue.

Clean Printhead (from the printer)

1. On the printer, go to Settings > Tools > Clean Printhead.
2. Follow on-screen instructions.

If color improves, repeat once more if needed.
 

Reinstall Using HP Full Feature Software

Sometimes Windows Update installs basic drivers missing color profiles.

• Uninstall current printer driver from Control Panel > Programs and Features.
• Download and install the full driver for your printer from:
  HP ENVY 4520 Software & Drivers

Check Cartridge Compatibility and Installation

• Make sure you’re using genuine HP cartridges.
• Open the cartridge door and reinsert both black and tri-color cartridges.
• Make sure no protective tape is still on the color cartridge.

Firmware Update

• Go to the HP printer menu > Settings > Printer Maintenance > Update the Printer.
• Or use the HP Smart app > click the printer > Advanced Settings > Firmware Update.

Try Printing from a Different App

Try printing from Microsoft Word, Edge browser, or Photos app to rule out app-specific issues.

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. Select "Yes" on the bottom left to say “Thanks” for helping! 

Max3Aj

HP Support