-
×InformationNeed Windows 11 help?Check documents on compatibility, FAQs, upgrade information and available fixes.
Windows 11 Support Center. -
-
×InformationNeed Windows 11 help?Check documents on compatibility, FAQs, upgrade information and available fixes.
Windows 11 Support Center. -
- HP Community
- Printers
- Printer Ink Cartridges & Print Quality
- getting error message saying Ink cartridge damaged but nit...

Create an account on the HP Community to personalize your profile and ask a question
02-10-2025 05:46 PM
Replaced depleted ink cartridge with new one. Then received error message that ink cartridge appeared damaged (I had just opened a new box & took a fresh ink cartridge out & inserted it in my printer.) so I bought another pack of HP ink. Inserted it & got the same error message. i can't print, align, clean printheads or anything & I don't believe that I received 2 different boxes with a bad magenta cartridge in each. Please help. Thanks.
02-14-2025 04:13 AM - edited 02-14-2025 04:14 AM
@angeliagoode, Welcome to the HP Support Community!
Thanks for reaching out about your query regarding an error message on your printer!
We're thrilled to have the opportunity to assist you and provide a solution.
Here are some steps to troubleshoot the issue with your HP Officejet Pro 8600 e-All-in-One Printer - N911a:
1. Verify the Ink Cartridges
- Ensure you are using genuine HP ink cartridges (not refilled or third-party cartridges).
- The compatible cartridges for your printer are HP 950 (Black) and HP 951 (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow).
- Check the expiration date on the ink cartridge packaging.
2. Remove and Reinsert the Cartridge
- Turn on the printer.
- Open the ink cartridge access door and remove the magenta cartridge.
- Check for any protective tape that may still be on the cartridge's nozzle.
- Reinsert it firmly and make sure it clicks into place.
3. Clean the Cartridge Contacts
- Power off the printer and unplug it.
- Remove the problematic cartridge again.
- Use a lint-free cloth lightly dampened with distilled water to clean the gold-colored contacts on the cartridge and inside the printer.
- Let it dry completely before reinserting.
4. Reset the Printer
- With the printer powered on, unplug the power cord from both the printer and the wall.
- Wait 2-3 minutes, then plug it back in and turn it on.
- Check if the error persists.
5. Update the Printer Firmware
- If possible, check for a firmware update on the HP website.
- Go to HP Support → Software & Drivers, enter your printer model, and download any available updates.
6. Try a Different Cartridge
- If the error still appears, try inserting an older or different magenta cartridge if available.
- If an old one works, the issue may be with the new cartridges.
7. Check for Hardware Issues
- If none of the above steps work, there might be an issue with the printhead.
- Try removing the printhead, cleaning the contacts, and reinserting it.
- If the printhead is faulty, it may need replacement.
We hope our assistance has been helpful!
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,
ZOEY7886
I am an HP Employee