Cant remove hidden printer driver-in use error

[PaddyMac1957]

Have the 8610 but on a recent laptop re-install of Windows 10, my 8610 stopped being recognized when it was selected to print something. From Printer device section its there but wont print a test page  or even show anything in its print job drop down, and yes I've done the Fix doctor etc, and it too even comes to the conclusion there's a downloaded driver error. However in trying to reinstall the new drivers (3 or 4 times) in desperation at one point I downloaded the 8600 drivers. Now when attempting to remove all printers per many forum support ideas, the viewable 8610 was easy but then the 8600 was hidden though when found  via printui.exe /s, it wont let me remove it as "its in use" .....I'm trying and dying here help? 

[Betty0610]

@PaddyMac1957

Welcome to the HP Support Community.

Restart your Computer and Printer and then try removing the drivers again:

Let's try to do a root uninstall and reinstall of the software:

Unplug any USB cable, if any, before doing this.

1.) In Windows, search for and open Programs and features

2.) Select your HP Printer

3.) Select Uninstall

4.) In Windows, search for and open Devices and printers

5.) In the Devices and Printers windows look for your HP printer. If you see it listed right-click on it and choose 'Delete' or 'Remove Device'

6.) Open up the run command with the "Windows key + R" key combo.

7.) Type printui.exe /s and click Ok. (Note: there is a space in between “printui.exe” and “/s”)

8.) Click on the "Drivers" tab

9.) Look for HP Printer driver. If you see it Click on it and click Remove at the bottom

10.) Select Ok

11.) Select Apply and Ok on the Print Server Properties windows

12.) Close Devices and Printers

13.) Open up the run command with the "Windows key + R" key combo

14.) Type c:/programdata and click Ok. Go to Hewlett Packard folder, remove any printer related folders & files.

15.) Restart the computer.

Once done, you can install the HP Smart App: https://support.hp.com/in-en/document/c04675142

Let me know if this helps.

If the information I've provided was helpful, give us some reinforcement by clicking the Accepted Solution and Kudos buttons, that'll help us and others see that we've got the answers!

Thanks!

Have a great day!

[PaddyMac1957]

Didnt work...It may or may not be related to the fact an old 8600 driver (accidentally installed while I was troubleshooting the  reinstall issues)  wont let me remove it as it keeps saying "Driver in use" per screenshot. That said this root install wasnt working even prir to that accideental adding of the 8600 driver. But it does bug me I cant get rid of it...

 

[Betty0610]

I would request you to contact the HP Support Team as they can remotely access your Computer and help you with this further.

Link: www.hp.com/contacthp/

Note:  Select the country accordingly to get the contact details for support.

If the information I've provided was helpful, give us some reinforcement by clicking the "Accept as solution" button, that'll help us and others see that we've got the answers!

Thanks!

Have a great day!