Printer won't work due to color cartridge

[cavebird]

For some reason today my printer noticed that the color cartridges were depleted.  I haven't printed in color in years.  But it will not let me print in black and white unless I replace the depleted cartridges.  I have no intention of buying color cartridges that I will never use.  Does anyone know how to fix this problem or is HP just trying to force me to buy more crap in a blatant antitrust violation?

[Max3Aj]

@cavebird, Welcome to the HP Support Community – it’s great to have you here!

I appreciate you taking the time to share your question. I'm more than happy to assist with this and provide a solution that works for you.

I understand how frustrating it can be when your printer refuses to print in black and white due to depleted color cartridges, especially if you haven’t used color printing in years.
 

The HP OfficeJet Pro 9025 is designed to use all cartridges for servicing tasks, like printhead maintenance, even if you're printing in black only. When any cartridge is depleted or missing, the printer may pause printing to prevent potential damage to the printhead.

Possible Workarounds:

Option 1: Enable "Black Ink Only" Mode (if available)

Some HP printers allow you to print using only black ink when color cartridges are low. Here's how to check:

1. Open HP Smart or HP Printer Assistant on your PC.
2. Go to Print Settings or Advanced Settings.
3. Look for an option like "Print in Grayscale" or "Black Ink Only".
4. Select it and try printing again.

Note: This option may not work if the color cartridges are completely empty or missing.

Option 2: Replace Color Cartridges with Low-Cost Genuine HP Setup Cartridges

If you still have the original setup cartridges that came with the printer, you can reinstall them, even if they’re low on ink. The printer may allow limited black-only printing.

Alternatively, you can purchase standard (non-XL) genuine HP 962 cartridges, which are more affordable than XL versions. Which cartridges work with my HP printer? | HP® Support

Option 3: Use HP Instant Ink (Optional)

If you’re open to it, HP’s Instant Ink program can automatically send replacement cartridges at a lower cost based on your usage. You can choose a plan that suits black-only printing.

Important Notes:

• Third-party or refilled cartridges may not work reliably and can trigger cartridge errors.
• HP printers are designed to prevent damage to the printhead, which is why they require all cartridges to be present and functional.

I hope your issue is now resolved. If not, feel free to reply and we’ll continue helping until everything’s sorted!

If the post helped, please click “Accepted Solution” to help other users easily find it. And if you’d like to say thanks, just tap the “Yes” button!

Cheers,

Max3Aj

HP Support