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- HP Community
- Printers
- Printer Ink Cartridges & Print Quality
- Repeated cartridge depletion messages

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07-06-2025 08:31 AM
My printer was low on magenta, but I could print with black, so I did until I had a magenta cartridge. The other cartridges were low, but not very low. I replaced the magenta cartridge. Immediately it gave me black cartridge depleted message. I replaced the black cartridge. Now it says the yellow cartridge is depleted. This seems just wrong! Would I be better off with another company's printer. I shouldn't have to replace all of the cartridges just because one was low.
07-08-2025 04:58 AM
@thofson, Welcome to HP Support Community.
Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you.
I understand how frustrating it can be to receive repeated cartridge depletion messages, especially when you've just replaced one. Let's walk through some steps to resolve this issue.
Power Reset the Printer
Sometimes, a simple reset can clear false depletion messages:
- Turn the printer on.
- Disconnect the power cord from the back of the printer.
- Wait for 60 seconds.
- Reconnect the power cord and turn the printer back on.
Check Cartridge Authenticity
Make sure you're using genuine HP cartridges. Non-HP or refilled cartridges can sometimes trigger depletion or compatibility errors.
- You can verify your cartridges here: HP anti-counterfeit | HP® Official Site
Clean Cartridge Contacts
Ink residue or dust on the cartridge contacts can cause detection issues:
- Open the cartridge access door.
- Remove the cartridge showing the error.
- Gently clean the copper-colored contacts on the cartridge and the corresponding contacts inside the printer using a lint-free cloth slightly moistened with distilled water.
- Let it dry and reinstall the cartridge.
Update Printer Firmware
Outdated firmware can cause cartridge recognition issues:
- Visit the HP Software and Drivers page
- Download and install the latest firmware for your printer.
Check for HP Instant Ink Enrollment
If your printer is enrolled in HP Instant Ink, it may reject non-Instant Ink cartridges:
- Log in to your HP Instant Ink account to check your status.
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