My HP ENVY 4520 is not printingt he alignment page properly

[LisSimon]

The print is coming out l;ooking as if someone ran an eraser acroiss the top of each line, plus alignment page didn't print properly when I installed new cartridge, so I can't print anything, I have tried cleaning heaqds (about 6 times), aligning printer (about 5 times). All to no avail. HP AI support not very helpful either.

[VikramTheGreat]

Hi @LisSimon.

Welcome to the HP Support Community.
 

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

I truly understand how frustrating it is when your HP ENVY 4524 All-in-One Printer refuses to print properly, especially after you've already tried cleaning and aligning multiple times. You're doing everything right, and I’m here to help.

Your description faded top of each line, the alignment page is not printing properly, and no improvement after cleaning, suggests one or more of the following:

• Partially clogged printhead
• Misaligned cartridges
• Low ink or defective cartridge
• Firmware or driver issue

Steps to Fix the Issue

1. Reset the Printer

Sometimes a simple reset clears internal errors:

• Turn off the printer.
• Unplug the power cord from both the printer and the wall.
• Wait 60 seconds.
• Plug it back in directly to a wall outlet (not a surge protector).
• Turn it on and try printing again.

2. Check Cartridge Installation

• Open the cartridge access door.
• Remove and reinsert both cartridges firmly.
• Make sure no protective tape is left on the cartridge.
• Avoid touching copper contacts or ink nozzles.

3. Run Advanced Printhead Cleaning

You’ve already done basic cleaning. Try second and third-level cleaning via the HP app or printer control panel:

• Go to Setup > Printer Maintenance > Clean Cartridges
• Repeat cleaning up to three times, waiting 30 minutes between cycles if needed.

4. Print a Diagnostic Report

• Go to Setup > Reports > Print Quality Report
• Check for missing color blocks, faded areas, or streaks.
• If issues persist, proceed to Align Printer again from Setup > Printer Maintenance > Align Printer. 

I hope this helps.

Take care and have an amazing day!
 

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Regards,

VikramTheGreat