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- HP Community
- Printers
- Printer Setup, Software & Drivers
- Printer head not aligned when door opened

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07-29-2025 08:06 AM
@Ajay586411, Hello and welcome to the HP Support Community!
Thanks for posting your question. I'm here to help you get things back on track.
It sounds like your printer's carriage (printhead assembly) is not moving to the correct position when you open the access door, which is typically required for replacing ink cartridges. This issue can occur due to a few reasons such as firmware glitches, mechanical obstructions, or incorrect startup sequences.
Here are some steps you can try to resolve the issue:
Power Reset the Printer
This simple step can often resolve carriage alignment issues.
- Turn the printer ON (if it’s not already).
- With the printer powered on, unplug the power cord from the back of the printer.
- Wait for 60 seconds.
- Plug the power cord back in and turn the printer ON.
- Now, open the cartridge access door and check if the carriage moves to the center.
Check for Obstructions
- Open the cartridge access door.
- Use a flashlight to inspect the carriage path for any paper jams, debris, or dried ink buildup.
- Gently move the carriage left and right (if it moves freely) to ensure it’s not stuck.
Update Printer Firmware
Outdated firmware can cause mechanical and alignment issues.
- Visit the HP Software and Driver Downloads page.
- Enter your printer model and download the latest firmware.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to install it.
Additional Tips
- Ensure the printer is placed on a flat, stable surface.
- Avoid opening the access door during startup or shutdown sequences.
I hope the information shared has been useful and resolves your concern.
Wishing you a smooth and hassle-free experience ahead!
If this solution helped, please click “Accepted Solution” so others can benefit too. Don’t forget to hit the “Yes” button if you found this helpful!
Warm regards,
Max3Aj
HP Support