Printer is showing paper jam message but no visible paper

[Veronica60]

No visible paper jammed when I open paper tray. After the paper jam message I get "Printer Failure: There is a problem with the printer or print system. Turn the printer Off, then On. If you continue to get this message, contact HP. 0x6100004a" I do that but nothing changes. And I can't contact HP, it just directs me here.

[A_Gayathri]

Hi @Veronica60,

Welcome to The HP Support Community.  

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

I understand the error message you're seeing on your HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M281fdw printer (0x6100004a) typically indicates a hardware issue that might be related to a sensor or internal mechanical problem, often triggered by what the printer thinks is a paper jam. Since you’ve checked for visible jams and still get the error, 

here are some steps you can take to try to resolve the issue:
 

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting:

Check All Accessible Areas for Paper Jams:

• Paper Tray: Remove the paper tray and check for any paper stuck in the tray or feeder area.
• Inside the Printer: Open the front cover and carefully remove the toner cartridges. Look for any bits of paper or debris inside the printer. Also, check the fuser area (if accessible) for any obstructions.
• Rear Access: If your printer has a rear access door or panel, open it and check for paper jams in the back of the printer.

Inspect the Toner Cartridges and Imaging Drum:

• Remove each toner cartridge and inspect it for any pieces of paper or damage. Make sure that all cartridges are properly seated when you reinstall them.
• Check the imaging drum for any visible issues or obstructions.

Check for Paper Jam Sensors:

• Paper Jam Sensors: Sometimes, a small piece of paper or debris might get caught on a sensor, causing it to report a paper jam when there isn’t one. Carefully inspect the paper path for any small pieces of paper or dust near the sensors.

Perform a Power Reset:

• Turn off the printer and unplug it from the power source.
• Wait for about 60 seconds, then plug it back in and turn it on. This can reset the printer's internal sensors and software.

Update Printer Firmware: Update the firmware on an HP printer

• Ensure your printer's firmware is up to date, as outdated firmware can cause errors. You can check for firmware updates on the HP support website.

Use HP's Diagnostic Tools:

• If you have the HP Smart app or HP Print and Scan Doctor, you can use these tools to help diagnose and potentially resolve the issue.

Check for Obstructions or Damage:

• Sometimes, small objects or debris can fall into the printer. Carefully inspect all areas for any foreign objects that might have caused the paper jam or error.

Perform a Cold Reset:

• A cold reset will restore the printer to its factory default settings, which might resolve the error. To perform a cold reset:
  • Turn off the printer.
  • Turn it back on while holding down the "Resume" button (the button with a red circle and an exclamation mark). Keep holding the button until you see "Cold Reset" or a similar message on the display.

Refer to this document:  HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M281fdw User manual 

I hope this helps. 

Take care and have a good day.

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