Will Not Print. Damaged Cartridge error message. Cannot not clean or re-align print head

[knausehouse1]

Yellow ink cartridge needed to be replaced.  Did that but got a message "One or more cartridges appear to be damaged".  Ordered another set of cartridges from Amazon (genuine HP cartridges )

Exchanged those cartridges.  New cartridge - same error message.  I don't think it's the cartridge.

I have tried all of the troubleshooting I could find on HP.COM and the internet.

My printer is discontinued.  I suspect that it's the print head.  I have 4 brand new cartridges, and, as far as I can tell, only a handful of mostly discontinued printers use those cartridges.

Should I try replacing the print head?

Should I look for a refurbished 8600?

Should I take it somewhere for repair.

Should I buy a new printer, maybe an HP+ model?

I would say I print 300 pages/month.  Home/office use.

[Kuroi_Kenshi]

Hi @knausehouse1,

Welcome to the HP Support Community! 

Thanks for reaching out about your query regarding the cartridge error on your printer!

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

The persistent error message "One or more cartridges appear to be damaged" on your HP Officejet Pro 8600 Plus can be frustrating, especially after replacing the cartridges with genuine HP products. Although you've tried various troubleshooting steps, here are some additional ones that may assist in resolving the issue:

1. Remove and Clean the Cartridge Contacts:
   • Turn on the printer and open the cartridge access door.
   • Wait for the printer carriage to stop moving.
   • Remove the affected cartridge.
   • Use a lint-free cloth slightly moistened with distilled water to clean the electrical contacts on the cartridge as well as those inside the printer.
   • Allow the contacts to dry, and then reinsert the cartridge firmly until it snaps into place.

Reset the Printer:

• With the printer on, disconnect the power cord from the back of the printer and from the power source.
• Wait for about 60 seconds.
• Reconnect the power cord to the printer and to a direct power outlet (avoid power strips or surge protectors).
• Turn on the printer and check if the error persists.

Check the Printhead:

• If the problem continues after cleaning the contacts and resetting, it may signal an issue with the printhead itself.
• Perform the printhead cleaning procedure via the printer control panel (outlined in the user manual).
• If necessary, consider replacing the printhead. Instructions for removing the old printhead and installing a new one are available here.

Firmware Update:

• Ensure the printer's firmware is up-to-date. From the control panel, check for updates under ePrint settings, and install any available updates.

I hope this helps.

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Best regards,

[knausehouse1]

I have tried everything you presented without any success.  I am pretty much convinced that I need to replace the print head.

I checked at Amazon, and I got worried that some of of their print heads may be bogus.

What is the actual part number?

How much does it cost to buy it from HP?

Thank you.

[Kuroi_Kenshi]

Hi @knausehouse1,

We understand how important it is to have your device functioning properly, and we're here to assist you.​

To ensure your device receives the appropriate care, we recommend visiting an authorized HP service center. Our certified technicians can provide a thorough diagnosis and offer the best solutions to address the issue.​

You can locate the nearest HP service center using our Service Center Locator:​

🔗 HP Service Center Locator

If you need further assistance or have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact us.​

Best Regards,