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- HP Community
- Printers
- Printer Setup, Software & Drivers
- Printer Failure message

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06-10-2025 03:56 AM - edited 06-11-2025 09:41 AM
@Tmill94, Welcome to HP Support Community.
Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you.
I understand you're seeing a "Printer Failure" message along with "There is a problem with the printer or ink system" on your HP printer. This is a common error that can usually be resolved with a few troubleshooting steps.
Power Reset the Printer
- Turn off the printer using the Power button.
- Disconnect the power cord from the back of the printer and from the wall outlet.
- Wait for 60 seconds.
- Reconnect the power cord and turn the printer back on.
Check for Ink Cartridge Issues
- Open the ink cartridge access door.
- Remove all ink cartridges.
- Check for any ink leaks, damage, or improper installation.
- Reinsert the cartridges firmly and correctly.
If you recently installed new cartridges, ensure they are genuine HP cartridges.
Clean the Ink Cartridge and Printhead Contacts
- Gently clean the electrical contacts on the cartridges and inside the printer using a lint-free cloth slightly moistened with distilled water.
- Let them dry for a few minutes before reinserting.
For detailed steps, refer to this HP guide: HP Ink Cartridge and Printhead Cleaning
Update Printer Firmware
- Go to HP Software and Driver Downloads and enter your printer model.
- Download and install the latest firmware update.
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
06-10-2025 01:21 PM
Okay that worked on connecting but now I have an issue of when all four brand new ink cartridges are in the printer it is showing that the cyan and black are out of ink. when I pull one of any color out, the remaining three are showing color levels okay. Any ideas?
06-11-2025 09:45 AM - edited 06-11-2025 09:46 AM
@Tmill94, Thanks for the update.
I'm glad the "Printer Failure" message was resolved!
Now regarding the issue you're seeing where the cyan and black cartridges show as empty, but removing any one cartridge causes the remaining three to display properly, this typically indicates a cartridge recognition or contact issue, not an actual ink level problem.
Let’s try these steps to reset and reinitialize the ink system:
Confirm Cartridge Compatibility
Please double-check that the cartridges installed are genuine HP and compatible with your printer model (e.g., HP 910, 952, etc.).
If you're using Instant Ink or refilled cartridges, that may also cause recognition inconsistencies.
Which cartridges work with my HP printer? | HP® Support
Fully Reset the Cartridge System
- Turn the printer on and open the ink access door.
- Remove all four cartridges.
- With all cartridges removed, turn off the printer and unplug the power cable from the wall.
- Wait at least 60 seconds.
- Plug the power back in and turn the printer on.
- Once the printer is idle, insert all four cartridges one at a time, start with black, then cyan, then magenta, and finally yellow.
- Wait a few seconds after inserting each one to ensure it's recognized.
Clean Cartridge and Printhead Contacts
- Power off the printer and unplug it.
- Remove the cyan and black cartridges.
- Using a lint-free cloth slightly dampened with distilled water, gently clean:
- The gold electrical contacts on the cartridges.
- The matching contacts inside the printer (on the printhead or cartridge slot).
- Let them dry for 5–10 minutes.
- Reinsert the cartridges and turn the printer back on.
Check for Blocked Cartridge Vents
On the top of each cartridge, there’s usually a small vent. Make sure the plastic tab (pull strip) has been completely removed.
Gently clean the vent area or use a paperclip to clear the vent hole, if it looks blocked, especially on cyan and black.
Firmware Update
If not already done, please visit HP Software and Driver Downloads
Enter your printer model
Download and install the latest firmware
This can help resolve recognition and ink level detection issues, especially after recent cartridge replacements.
I hope this helps!
If my response resolves your issue, please click “Accepted Solution” to help others find the answer. Also, don’t forget to click the “Yes” button to say thanks!
Take care and have a great day.
Max3Aj
HP Support