Printing issue - Black ink not printed out

[Akito1225]

I am writing to report an issue I'm experiencing with the black ink printing on my HP printer.

When I print documents in color, the black ink does print, although the quality is not ideal. However, when I try to print documents in black and white, nothing prints at all.

I am using compatible HP ink cartridges provided by my subscription, and I have not received any error messages in the printer's accompanying app.

I have already tried the following troubleshooting steps without success:

* Replacing the black ink cartridge with a new one

* Cleaning the printheads multiple times

* Checking for any blockage in the ink cartridge

* Rebooting the printer

* Aligning the printheads

Since none of these steps have resolved the problem, I would appreciate any advise on how to fix this issue.

[Hawks_Eye]

Hi @Akito1225 

Welcome to the HP Support Community! We're here to help you get back up and running.

Thanks for the clear description — that helps narrow things down a lot.

Here’s how you can fix it:

Steps to try

1. Force the printer to use pigment black

On macOS:

When you go to Print → Show Details.

Look for Media & Quality or Color Options.

Enable Grayscale → Black Ink Only.

This forces it to use the pigment black cartridge, not mixed color.

Try a print — if nothing comes out, that confirms the pigment black nozzles are blocked/not being recognized.

2. Run a diagnostic print

On the printer:

From the control panel, run Setup → Printer Maintenance → Print Quality Report.

Check if the PGBK (big black block) is missing or streaked.

Missing = clogged or defective black ink system.

Present but poor = driver settings issue.

3. Deep clean the printhead

You’ve already done a couple of cleans, but try:

Semi/full printhead cleaning (the printer usually escalates after a few cycles).

If still bad, you can try removing the printhead (if your model allows), rinsing with warm distilled water, drying, then reinstalling. (⚠️ Only if comfortable — it’s delicate.)

4. Firmware update + driver reset

Update firmware (Setup → Printer Maintenance → Update).

On macOS, delete the printer in System Settings → Printers & Scanners, then re-add it as an AirPrint printer instead of HP driver, or vice versa. Sometimes the driver forces composite black only.

Can you try running a Print Quality Report and let me know if the pigment black box is missing or faint? That’ll confirm if this is a mechanical vs driver issue.

If my response helped, please mark it as an Accepted Solution! ✅ It helps others and spreads support. 💙 Also, tapping "Yes" on "Was this reply helpful?" makes a big difference! Thanks! 😊

Take care, and have an amazing day!

Regards, 

Hawks_Eye