Printer cartridge startup

[BobD50000]

Just purchased a 4252 e All in one Printer. Instructions were to use the provided cartridges, but I keep getting an error code E0 unusable cartridge.  I have reinitialized, cleaned, reinserted numerous times.  What is solution?

[Kuroi_Kenshi]

Hi @BobD50000,

Welcome to the HP Support Community!

Thanks for reaching out!

We're thrilled to have the opportunity to assist you and provide a solution.

I understand your HP DeskJet 4252e All-in-One Printer is showing an E0 “Unusable Cartridge” error even after reinserting and cleaning the setup cartridges. Let’s go through a few steps to check what could be causing this.

a. Confirm Setup Cartridges

Make sure you are using the original HP 67 or HP 67XL Setup cartridges that came inside the printer box.

The printer will not accept standard or previously-used cartridges during initial setup.

Check the label — it should clearly say “Setup” on the top.

b. Remove and Reinsert Cartridges

Turn on the printer.

Open the front access door and wait until the carriage stops moving.

Remove both the black and tri-color cartridges.

Reinsert them one by one until they click firmly into place, then close the access door.

c. Clean Electrical Contacts

Power off the printer and unplug the power cord.

Remove the cartridges and gently wipe the copper-colored contacts on the cartridges and the contacts inside the carriage using a lint-free cloth slightly dampened with distilled water.

Allow them to dry completely (about 5 minutes) before reinstalling.

d. Reset the Printer

With the printer powered on, disconnect the power cord from both the rear of the printer and the wall outlet.

Wait 60 seconds, then reconnect the power cord and turn the printer back on.

Check if the error clears.

e. Check for Firmware Updates

From the printer’s control panel or HP Smart app, go to Settings → Printer Maintenance → Update the Printer (or Advanced Settings → Tools → Printer Update).

A firmware update can resolve cartridge recognition errors on newer printers.

f. Test With One Cartridge at a Time

Remove both cartridges, then insert only the black cartridge and check the display.

Then try only the tri-color cartridge.

If one triggers the error while the other works, it indicates which cartridge is faulty.

I hope this helps.

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Best regards,