streaks in color printing

[g8virgo]

My color prints have streaks or dark lines horizontally and picture isn't clear anymore.  I have performed all the required diagnostics of cleaning print heed, test pattern quality diagnostic,alignment and changed ink cartridges.  The black ink prints fine but any color printing has streaks/lines.  Can someone help?

[zoey7886]

@g8virgo, Welcome to the HP Support Community!  

Thanks for reaching out about your query regarding Fixing Print Quality Problems: Streaks in Color Printing! 

We're thrilled to have the opportunity to assist you and provide a solution.  

If your color prints have streaks or dark lines and the picture isn't clear, despite performing various diagnostics like cleaning the printhead, print quality diagnostics, alignment, and cartridge changes, follow these additional steps to resolve the issue.

Evaluate the Ink Supply and Printhead

1. Check Ink Levels: Ensure ink levels aren't critically low. If any cartridge displays low ink levels, replace it.
2. Evaluate and Replace the Printhead:
   • Print a Print Quality Diagnostic Page to identify any specific defects related to the printhead.
   • Look at the color blocks labeled Test Pattern 2 on the diagnostic page. If any color blocks show white lines or streaks, it might indicate a need to replace the printhead.

Detailed Steps to Address Color Print Quality Issues

Step 1: Evaluate Test Pattern 2

Inspect the color blocks in Test Pattern 2 for any white lines, faded blocks, or missing blocks:

• If white lines appear in any color blocks, proceed with cleaning the printhead. This might require multiple cleanings.
• If faded or missing blocks persist, it indicates deeper issues potentially requiring printhead replacement.

Step 2: Clean the Printhead

Use the automated tool to clean the printhead:

1. Load plain white paper into the input tray.
2. On the printer control panel, navigate to Setup, then select Tools and perform Clean Printhead.
3. Wait for the printer to complete the cleaning and print another diagnostic page.

Step 3: Align the Printhead

Upon repeated issues in Test Pattern 1:

1. Load plain white paper into the tray.
2. Navigate to Setup > Tools > Align Printhead on the control panel.
3. Wait for the completion and inspect the alignment page printed by the printer.  

Hope this helps! 

Take care, and have an amazing day!  

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Regards,