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- HP Community
- Printers
- Printer Ink Cartridges & Print Quality
- WONT PRINT BLACK

Create an account on the HP Community to personalize your profile and ask a question
12-21-2024 01:51 PM
Hi @JIM1047,
Welcome to HP Support Community.
Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you.
If your HP printer won't print black even after installing a new 902 black ink cartridge and performing troubleshooting steps, here are some focused steps to resolve the issue.
Ensure Genuine HP Ink
Confirm the new cartridge is an authentic HP 902 cartridge. Non-genuine cartridges can sometimes cause issues.
Run a Printhead Cleaning
Since color prints but black does not, the issue might be with the black printhead. Run a printhead cleaning from your printer settings:
- From the Printer Control Panel:
- Go to Settings > Printer Maintenance > Clean Printhead.
- Perform all cleaning levels, if available.
- Test print after each level.
Align the Printhead
If cleaning doesn't work, align the printhead:
- Go to Settings > Printer Maintenance > Align Printer.
- Follow the on-screen instructions.
Check for Ink Blockages
Inspect the black cartridge for clogs or dried ink:
- Remove the cartridge.
- Use a lint-free cloth and distilled water to gently clean the nozzle area and copper contacts.
- Allow it to dry completely before reinserting.
Check Printhead Status
If cleaning doesn’t resolve the issue, it could be a printhead failure.
- Some HP printers have a removable printhead. If yours does, remove it and clean the connectors using a soft cloth with distilled water.
- Reinstall and test.
Update Printer Firmware
An outdated firmware might cause issues.
- Visit the HP Support website and download the latest firmware for your printer model.
Reset the Printer
Resetting might clear any system errors:
- Turn off the printer and disconnect the power cord.
- Wait for 60 seconds.
- Reconnect the power and turn on the printer.
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. Click the “Kudos/Thumbs Up" on the bottom right to say “Thanks” for helping!
Alden4
HP Support
HP Support Community Moderator