• ×
    Information
    Need Windows 11 help?
    Check documents on compatibility, FAQs, upgrade information and available fixes.
    Windows 11 Support Center.
  • post a message
  • ×
    Information
    Need Windows 11 help?
    Check documents on compatibility, FAQs, upgrade information and available fixes.
    Windows 11 Support Center.
  • post a message
Guidelines
Seize the moment! nominate yourself or a tech enthusiast you admire & join the HP Community Experts!
Check some of the most frequent questions about Instant Ink: HP INSTANT INK, HP+ PLANS: INK AND TONER.


Check out our Black or Color Ink Not Printing, Other Print Quality Issues info about: Print quality and Cartridge Issues.
HP Recommended

Hp Color Laser Jet Pro MFP M281 That will not print red. I have replace the cartridge already. The black is also very light. I have been in settings and it doesn't fix anything.

1 REPLY 1
HP Recommended

Hi @Vee63,

 

Welcome to HP Support Community.  


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

 

If you're experiencing issues with the color printing on your HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M281, there are several steps you can take to troubleshoot and potentially resolve the problem.

 

Check Toner Cartridge Installation:

  • Make sure that the new cartridges are properly installed. Ensure that you've removed any protective tapes or seals from the cartridges.

Print a Configuration Page:

  • Print a configuration or test page from the printer itself. This can usually be done through the printer's control panel. This will help you determine if the issue is with the printer or the computer.

Check Print Quality Settings:

  • Access the printer settings on your computer and make sure the print quality settings are appropriately configured. Sometimes, printers default to a lower quality setting, resulting in lighter prints.

Clean the Print Heads:

  • Many printers have a function to clean the print heads. Refer to your printer's manual on how to initiate the print head cleaning process.

Calibrate the Printer:

  • Printers often have a calibration function that can help improve print quality. Refer to your printer's manual for instructions on how to calibrate the printer.

Update Printer Drivers:

  • Make sure that you have the latest printer drivers installed on your computer. You can usually download the latest drivers from the HP website.

Check Toner Levels:

  • Verify that the toner levels are sufficient. Some printers provide information about toner levels through the control panel or via software on your computer.

Perform a Full Power Cycle:

  • Turn off the printer, unplug it from the power source, and wait for a few minutes before plugging it back in and turning it on. This can sometimes resolve temporary glitches.

Check for Firmware Updates:

  • Ensure that your printer has the latest firmware installed. You can usually find firmware updates on the HP website.

 

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!

 

Alden4
HP Support 

Raj_05
HP Support Community Moderator
† The opinions expressed above are the personal opinions of the authors, not of HP. By using this site, you accept the <a href="https://www8.hp.com/us/en/terms-of-use.html" class="udrlinesmall">Terms of Use</a> and <a href="/t5/custom/page/page-id/hp.rulespage" class="udrlinesmall"> Rules of Participation</a>.