The ink cartridge carriage on my HP Smart Tank 559 printer does not return to the middle

[2BUP]

The ink cartridge carriage on my HP Smart Tank 559 printer does not return to the middle (it remains on the left) when I open the cover to remove the cartridges. So I can't change them. Any ideas?

[zoey7886]

@2BUP, Welcome to the HP Support Community!  

Thanks for reaching out about your query regarding Fixing Ink Cartridge Carriage Issues! 

We're thrilled to have the opportunity to assist you and provide a solution.  

If the ink cartridge carriage on your HP Smart Tank Plus 559 does not return to the middle when you open the cover, it might be due to a mechanical or software issue. Try the following steps to troubleshoot and resolve the problem:

Power Cycle the Printer:

• Turn off the printer and disconnect the power cord.
• Wait for about 60 seconds.
• Reconnect the power cord and turn the printer back on.

Check for Obstructions:

• Ensure there are no paper jams or obstructions preventing the carriage from moving.
• Open the front and printhead access door and check for any visible debris.

Reset the Printer:

• Sometimes, a reset can resolve carriage issues. Disconnect the power cord from the printer while the printer is still on.
• Unplug the power cord from the outlet.
• Wait for about 60 seconds.
• Plug the power cord back into the outlet and reconnect it to the printer.
• Turn the printer on.

Firmware Update:

• Ensure your printer’s firmware is up-to-date. Visit HP Customer Support to check for any available updates.

Manual Movement:

• Carefully try to move the carriage manually to the center position. Do not use excessive force. This can sometimes free up any minor obstructions. 

Hope this helps! 

Take care, and have an amazing day!  

Did we resolve the issue? If yes, Please consider marking this post as "Accepted Solution" and click "Yes" to give us a helpful vote - your feedback keeps us going!  

Regards, 

[2BUP]

Thanks Zoey 7886

I've followed the recommended procedure, but the carriage is still stuck on the left.
I need to access the ink cartridge to change it because the grey print is pink
thanks in advance for your help

[zoey7886]

Hi @2BUP, 

Thanks so much for getting back to us — and I totally understand how frustrating this must be, especially when you're trying to change the cartridge and get back to printing normally.

Since the carriage is still stuck on the left even after the reset steps, let’s try a couple more things that might help:

1. Gently Nudge the Carriage (With Care!)

If you haven’t already, try opening the ink access area and very gently see if the carriage budges at all when nudged toward the center. Make sure the printer is turned off and unplugged while you do this. If there’s even slight resistance or something feels off, stop right away — we don’t want to risk damaging anything.

2. Check for Hidden Obstructions or Ink Spills

Sometimes small pieces of paper, dried ink, or even packaging materials from a previous cartridge change can block the carriage path. Use a flashlight if needed to inspect the full length of the carriage track.

Also, make sure the printhead latch (if accessible) is properly seated and not jammed.

3. Check the Printhead Installation

Since you mentioned that grey is printing pink, that could point to an issue with the printhead or ink flow. If you recently replaced ink bottles or had a spill, ink may have dried in the wrong place or caused a printhead issue. Try running a printhead cleaning cycle from the HP Smart App or printer display (if accessible).

Hope this helps!

Did we resolve the issue? If yes, Please consider marking this post as "Accepted Solution" and click "Yes" to give us a helpful vote - your feedback keeps us going!  

Regards, 

[2BUP]

Thanks Zoey 7886

I've followed the recommended procedure, but the carriage is still stuck on the left 

However, I use the printer in black and white and it works, but it's frustrating not to have color.
I opened the printer and moved the white gear wheel to the left: the carriage came free. I can now access the cartridges.
Note: when I plug in the printer again and open the cartridge access, the carriage remains locked on the left again: in conclusion, if I want to access the cartridges, I have to open the printer and move the white cogwheel.
So, before I buy new cartridges to solve my color printing problems, I'd like to be sure that it's really the cartridge that needs changing.
thank you in advance for your help

Translated with DeepL.com (free version)

[zoey7886]

Hey @2BUP, 

Thanks a lot for the update — and hats off to you for figuring out a workaround by moving the white gear wheel! I totally get how frustrating it is to have to manually do that each time just to access the cartridges.

From what you’ve described, it sounds like the carriage locking issue might be mechanical — possibly a faulty sensor or gear mechanism that’s not releasing properly when the cover is opened. Since the printer still works in black and white, it's likely not a complete failure, but definitely something we want to fix for smooth color printing too.

Before purchasing new cartridges, try running a printhead cleaning cycle (from the HP Smart app or printer control panel, if available) to see if that resolves the pink tint issue. If the color still prints incorrectly after cleaning, then it might be time to consider new cartridges or a printhead inspection.

If our solution hit the spot, please click "Accepted Solution" to help others find the answer. And if you'd like to say thanks, select "Yes" on the bottom left as that would make our day!  

Take care, and have an incredible day ahead!  

Regards,