my printer does not print black

[nshort49]

my printer won't print black and I've tried everytning but putting in a new cartridge as I don't have one, any ideas?

[Max3Aj]

@nshort49, Welcome to HP Support Community. 

Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you. 
If your HP OfficeJet Pro 6975 isn't printing black and you've tried almost everything except replacing the cartridge, here are some targeted suggestions that might help before you resort to a new cartridge:

✅ Try These First

• Check Estimated Ink Levels:

1. On the printer’s control panel, go to Settings > Ink Levels (or use the HP Smart app).
2. If the black cartridge is empty or low, it might be the culprit—even if color prints still work.

• Clean the Printhead (multiple times):

1. From the printer touchscreen:  
   Go to Setup > Printer Maintenance > Clean Printhead.  
   Run this 2–3 times. The first cleaning often doesn't fix dried black ink.
2. If it improves after cleaning, do a "Second-Level Cleaning" (you’ll see the option after the first level if needed).

• Print a Diagnostic Page:

1. From the printer touchscreen:  
   Go to Setup > Reports > Print Quality Report.
2. Check if the black section is missing or streaky. If it’s blank, the black ink is likely clogged or empty.

🔍 Other Checks

• Remove & Reinsert the Black Cartridge:

1. Power on the printer, open the cartridge door, remove the black cartridge, gently clean the copper contacts with a lint-free cloth (lightly dampened if needed), and reinsert it.

• Update Firmware & Drivers:

1. Use the HP Smart app or visit HP support site to make sure your printer firmware is updated. Sometimes, bugs cause ink issues.

• Try the HP Print and Scan Doctor (Windows only):

1. Download here: HP Print and Scan Doctor
2. It can auto-fix some black ink issues or give you a clearer error.

🚨 If All Else Fails

If:

• The cartridge still shows ink,
• The diagnostic page doesn’t print black,
• And multiple cleanings don’t help,

Then the black cartridge is likely dried out or faulty. Even if it shows ink remaining, dried ink at the nozzle level can block printing. Unfortunately, the only real fix at that point is replacing the black cartridge.

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