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- HP Community
- Printers
- Printer Ink Cartridges & Print Quality
- Re: printer rejects yellow cartridges

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04-02-2025 10:31 AM
When I attemp to replace HP cartridges, printer says the cartridge is defective or damaged, even after I buy fresh yellow cartridges.
Solved! Go to Solution.
Accepted Solutions
04-03-2025 08:57 AM
Hi @BILLB81,
Welcome to the HP Support Community!
Thanks for reaching out about your query regarding your printer!
We're thrilled to have the opportunity to assist you and provide a solution.
Try these steps:
Inspect the Cartridge:
- Ensure that the protective tape on the cartridge’s nozzle has been removed.
- Check for any visible damage or debris on the cartridge.
Clean the Cartridge Contacts:
- Turn off the printer and disconnect the power cord.
- Open the printer and remove the yellow ink cartridge.
- Use a lint-free cloth slightly moistened with distilled water to gently clean the electrical contacts on the cartridge.
- Also, clean the corresponding contacts inside the printer where the cartridge is inserted.
- Allow the contacts to air dry before reinserting the cartridge.
Check and Clean the Printhead:
- If cleaning the cartridge contacts does not resolve the issue, the printhead may need cleaning.
- With the printer turned off and unplugged, carefully remove the printhead if your model allows for it.
- Clean the printhead contacts gently with a lint-free cloth and distilled water.
- Allow to air dry completely before reinstalling.
Reset the Printer:
- After cleaning, reinsert the cartridge and reconnect the power cord.
- Turn on the printer and perform a reset:
- Disconnect the power cord from the back of the printer with it still powered on.
- Unplug the power cord from the wall outlet.
- Wait at least 60 seconds.
- Reconnect the power cord to the wall outlet and then to the printer.
- Turn on the printer and try to print again.
Update Printer Firmware:
Kindly refer to this link to update your printer firmware.
Use Genuine HP Cartridges:
- Verify that you are using genuine HP cartridges. Non-HP or refilled cartridges can sometimes cause errors.
- If the issue persists, try using a different new yellow cartridge, ensuring it is genuine HP.
Check Software Settings:
- Ensure your printer driver and software are updated on your macOS 10.14 Mojave.
- Download the latest version of the HP Easy Start from the HP Support website.
I hope this helps.
I'm glad I could help! 😊 If this resolved your issue, please mark it as "Accepted Solution" and click "Yes" on "Was this reply helpful?" Your feedback not only keeps us going but also helps others find the solution faster! 👍✨
Take care and have an amazing day ahead! 🚀
Best regards,
Kuroi_Kenshi
I am an HP Employee
04-03-2025 08:57 AM
Hi @BILLB81,
Welcome to the HP Support Community!
Thanks for reaching out about your query regarding your printer!
We're thrilled to have the opportunity to assist you and provide a solution.
Try these steps:
Inspect the Cartridge:
- Ensure that the protective tape on the cartridge’s nozzle has been removed.
- Check for any visible damage or debris on the cartridge.
Clean the Cartridge Contacts:
- Turn off the printer and disconnect the power cord.
- Open the printer and remove the yellow ink cartridge.
- Use a lint-free cloth slightly moistened with distilled water to gently clean the electrical contacts on the cartridge.
- Also, clean the corresponding contacts inside the printer where the cartridge is inserted.
- Allow the contacts to air dry before reinserting the cartridge.
Check and Clean the Printhead:
- If cleaning the cartridge contacts does not resolve the issue, the printhead may need cleaning.
- With the printer turned off and unplugged, carefully remove the printhead if your model allows for it.
- Clean the printhead contacts gently with a lint-free cloth and distilled water.
- Allow to air dry completely before reinstalling.
Reset the Printer:
- After cleaning, reinsert the cartridge and reconnect the power cord.
- Turn on the printer and perform a reset:
- Disconnect the power cord from the back of the printer with it still powered on.
- Unplug the power cord from the wall outlet.
- Wait at least 60 seconds.
- Reconnect the power cord to the wall outlet and then to the printer.
- Turn on the printer and try to print again.
Update Printer Firmware:
Kindly refer to this link to update your printer firmware.
Use Genuine HP Cartridges:
- Verify that you are using genuine HP cartridges. Non-HP or refilled cartridges can sometimes cause errors.
- If the issue persists, try using a different new yellow cartridge, ensuring it is genuine HP.
Check Software Settings:
- Ensure your printer driver and software are updated on your macOS 10.14 Mojave.
- Download the latest version of the HP Easy Start from the HP Support website.
I hope this helps.
I'm glad I could help! 😊 If this resolved your issue, please mark it as "Accepted Solution" and click "Yes" on "Was this reply helpful?" Your feedback not only keeps us going but also helps others find the solution faster! 👍✨
Take care and have an amazing day ahead! 🚀
Best regards,
Kuroi_Kenshi
I am an HP Employee
04-07-2025 01:49 PM
Hi @BILLB81,
Thanks for letting us help you out! If you're all set, please mark this post as 'Accepted Solution' so I can do a virtual happy dance!
If you need anything else, I'm all ears (or rather, all text). Just let me know!
You're awesome, and I'm honored to have been your go-to guide today!
Stay fantastic, and have an amazing day ahead!
Best Regards,
Kuroi_Kenshi
I am an HP Employee