Cartridge Jam

[KarenPugh]

I installed a new HP Instant Ink cartridge and am now getting a continuous error message about clearing the Cartridge access.

There are ZERO obstructions. 

[Raj2111]

Hi @KarenPugh 

Welcome to the HP support community.
 

I understand you're experiencing an issue with your HP device, and I apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused. I'm here to help you today.

Steps to Fix the "Clear Cartridge Access" Error:

1. Check for Cartridge Blockages or Obstructions

• Inspect the printer’s cartridge access area again, carefully check the carriage where the cartridges are installed. Look for any small bits of paper, ink residue, or dust that may be blocking the path.
• Move the cartridge carrier to the middle of the printer (where it can be easily accessed) by turning off the printer and manually sliding it across its rail. Once in the middle, check if anything might be obstructing its movement.

2. Ensure the Cartridge is Properly Installed

• Power off the printer and remove the new HP Instant Ink cartridge.
• Check the cartridge for damage, like scratches or any protective tape that might not have been fully removed (e.g., the tape over the contacts or ink exit).
• Reinstall the cartridge carefully, making sure it clicks securely into place. It should fit snugly and sit level in the cartridge holder.
• Check for any air bubbles or ink clogs inside the cartridge by gently shaking it side to side (be cautious, though, since shaking too hard can leak ink).

3. Check for Printhead Obstruction or Misalignment

• With the printer powered off, open the printer's access door (the one that gives you access to the ink cartridges).
• Inspect the printhead and the carriage rails for any signs of obstruction, dirt, or buildup. If there’s any debris, use a soft, lint-free cloth to gently wipe the area.
• Ensure that the cartridge carrier can move freely along the rails without obstruction.

4. Reset the Printer

Sometimes, a reset can resolve the issue if it’s related to a software or hardware glitch.

• Turn off the printer and unplug it from the power source.
• Wait 30 seconds to 1 minute, then plug the printer back in and power it on.
• Check if the error persists.

5. Check for Firmware Updates

• Go to the HP Support website and check if there is a firmware update available for your printer model.
• If you can access the printer via HP Smart App or the HP printer’s control panel, you may be able to update the firmware directly.
• Firmware updates can sometimes fix glitches related to cartridge detection or access errors.

6. Clean the Contacts on the Cartridges and Printer

• Turn off the printer, remove the cartridges, and gently clean the gold or copper contacts on the cartridges and inside the printer where the cartridges make contact with the printer.
• Use a soft cloth (preferably lint-free) or a cotton swab dampened with water to wipe off any residue. Be careful not to damage the contacts.
• Allow everything to dry completely before reinserting the cartridges.

7. Try Using Another Cartridge

• If you have access to another HP Instant Ink cartridge (or a regular replacement cartridge), try inserting it into the printer to see if the error persists.
• If the printer works with a different cartridge, the issue might be with the new cartridge itself (it could be defective).
• In that case, you can contact HP Support for assistance with a replacement cartridge.

8. Check for Firmware-Related Issues with Instant Ink

• If the issue occurred after installing the Instant Ink cartridge, it could be related to the Instant Ink program or the cartridge itself.
• If possible, try temporarily switching to a non-Instant Ink cartridge to see if the issue resolves.
• Contact HP Instant Ink Support to confirm whether there are any issues with your Instant Ink subscription or the cartridge.

9. Perform a Printer Reset Using the Control Panel

If your printer has a control panel, perform a soft reset:

• On the printer's control panel, go to Setup > Printer Maintenance > Restore Defaults (or a similar option).
• This will reset the printer’s internal settings to their factory defaults, which might clear any errors related to cartridge access.

I hope this helps! Keep me posted.

Please click “Accepted Solution” if you feel my post solved your issue, it will help others find the solution.
 

-Regards
Raj-HP Support

[Raj2111]

Hi @KarenPugh 

Welcome to the HP support community.
 

Please follow the steps from my previous post.

I hope this helps! Keep me posted.

Please click “Accepted Solution” if you feel my post solved your issue, it will help others find the solution.
 

-Regards
Raj-HP Support