my hp 650 cartridges stay parked

[Maxtimeout33]

With doors open and power on, my print heads stay in the parked position so I can't access them.  Is there a trick to getting them to center?

[Max3Aj]

@Maxtimeout33, Welcome to HP Support Community. 

Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you. 

If your HP Smart Tank 650 printer is showing that the carriage (print head) is parked and won't move to the center for access, here are some troubleshooting steps you can try to get it moving:

Power-Cycle the Printer (Soft Reset)

This can sometimes "unpark" the carriage.

• Keep the printer on.
• Disconnect the power cord from the back of the printer.
• Unplug it from the wall outlet.
• Wait for 60 seconds.
• Plug it directly into a wall outlet (not a surge protector).
• Reconnect the power cord to the printer and power it on.

After the printer powers up, open the front access door again and check if the carriage moves to the center.

Trigger the Carriage Movement Manually (Printer Trick)

With some models, this hidden sequence can help:

• Power on the printer if it’s not already on.
• Lift the ink access door fully and hold it open.
• Wait up to 30 seconds — the carriage should move to the center by itself.
• If it doesn't, gently close and reopen the door once.
• Try pressing a button on the printer (like Cancel or OK) to wake it.

Use HP Smart / Embedded Web Server (EWS) to Force Movement

Sometimes the carriage stays parked if the printer thinks nothing needs servicing.

• Open the HP Smart App.
• Go to Printer Settings.
• Run the "Replace Ink" or "Maintenance" option.
• This often triggers the carriage to move for ink access.

If you're accessing via the Embedded Web Server (by entering the printer's IP address in a browser), you can also try initiating a printhead cleaning — this action typically moves the carriage as well.

Check for Mechanical Obstruction

If the printer previously jammed or was interrupted:

• Turn off the printer.
• Gently open the ink access door.
• With the power off, try manually sliding the print carriage to the center (it should glide if not locked).
• Check for any paper or debris that might be obstructing the carriage.

Update Firmware

If this is a known firmware bug:

• Go to HP Software and Drivers.
• Enter your model (HP Smart Tank 650).
• Install the latest firmware and printer updates.

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! 

Max3Aj

HP Support