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- HP Community
- Printers
- Printer Ink Cartridges & Print Quality
- Washed out Printed Colors on 8030

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01-24-2024 02:06 PM
I have replaced my cartridges and went through the alignment and cleaning process several times, my printed pages are still washed out, faded looking. Do I need to replace the printer head and How do I do that?
01-29-2024 06:49 AM
Hi @Stevewiez,
Welcome to HP Support Community.
Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you.
If you have already replaced the cartridges, performed alignment and cleaning processes, and still experience washed-out or faded colors, the issue might be related to the printhead. Before replacing the printhead, you can try a few additional troubleshooting steps.
- Check Cartridge Installation: Ensure that the cartridges are properly installed. Remove them and reinsert them to make sure they are securely in place.
- Print a Test Page: Print a test page to check if the issue persists. Most printers have a test page option in the settings or on the control panel. This can help you identify whether the problem is with the printer hardware or the computer/software.
- Update Printer Drivers: Make sure you have the latest printer drivers installed on your computer. Outdated drivers can sometimes cause printing issues.
- Color Management Settings: Check the color management settings in your printer software. Make sure the correct color profile is selected, and consider adjusting the settings to see if it makes a difference.
If none of these steps resolves the issue, you may consider cleaning or replacing the printhead. However, keep in mind that not all printers have user-replaceable printheads. Some printers have integrated printheads within the cartridges.
If your printer has a separate printhead that can be replaced, consult your printer's manual for specific instructions on how to replace the printhead. The process can vary depending on the printer model. Typically, it involves opening the printer, removing the old printhead, and installing the new one.
Always refer to your printer's manual for model-specific instructions and guidelines.
I hope this helps.
Take care and have a good day.
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Alden4
HP Support
HP Support Community Moderator