carriage jam

[medtner]

I've installed new cartridges correctly, but keep getting the message that carriage is jammed. There's no sign of paper jam or obstruction. Please help! Thanks

[Max3Aj · Accepted solution]

@medtner, Welcome to HP Support Community. 

Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you. 
A carriage jam error on your HP ENVY 4500 e-All-in-One Printer, even when there's no visible paper jam or obstruction, can be super frustrating — especially after installing new cartridges. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you troubleshoot and fix it:

With the Printer Powered On, Gently Move the Carriage

1. Turn the printer ON.
2. Open the ink cartridge access door.
3. Wait until the carriage moves to the center.
4. Gently try to slide the carriage left and right — if it’s stuck or grinding, note the point of obstruction.
5. Look for bits of torn paper, plastic tabs, or packaging materials inside.
6. Remove anything you see with clean, dry fingers or tweezers.

Clean the Paper Path and Carriage Area

1. Power off and unplug the printer from the wall.
2. Open all accessible areas (input/output trays, rear access door).
3. Use a flashlight to inspect:
   • Behind and under the carriage.
   • Paper feed rollers and paths.
4. Clean out any dust or debris using:
   • A lint-free cloth slightly dampened with water (no alcohol).
   • A can of compressed air if available.

Reset the Printer

1. Unplug the power cord while the printer is still ON.
2. Wait for 60 seconds.
3. Plug it back in and power it ON.
   • This hard reset can clear phantom "jam" errors caused by software glitches or minor carriage stalls.

Check for Cartridge Blockage or Misalignment

1. Open the cartridge access door.
2. Remove and reinsert both cartridges.
3. Ensure the cartridges click into place firmly.
4. Look for and remove:
   • Any orange protective tape that may still be on the cartridges.
   • Any packaging foam or clips inside the cartridge area.

Run a Carriage Movement Test (if available)

• On some HP printers, pressing Power + Cancel + Resume can trigger a diagnostic test.
• If not, skip this and go to the next step.

Update Firmware (Optional but Recommended)

• If your printer turns on and functions minimally:
  • Go to HP Software & Driver Downloads.
  • Search for "HP ENVY 4500".
  • Download and install the latest firmware and software updates. 

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. Select "Yes" on the bottom left to say “Thanks” for helping! 

Max3Aj

HP Support