Unable to align HP Smart Tank 6000 series

[Space_Donkey]

My alignment page seems to be so out of position that the scan doesn't recognize there is an alignment page present.  I've restored factory settings.  I've scanned other documents and the image is captured and presented to my monitor correctly.  Any actual printing though has the image shifted approximately 2-3 inches.  Seems it doesn't auto-feed paper to appropriate starting location.

[zoey7886]

@Space_Donkey, Welcome to the HP Support Community!  

Thanks for reaching out about your query regarding HP Smart Tank 6000 Series Printer Alignment Issues! 

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

It sounds like your HP Smart Tank 6000 series printer is having trouble with its alignment process. Here are a few steps you can take to resolve the issue:

Check the Alignment Page Setup:

• Ensure that the alignment page is placed correctly on the scanner glass or in the automatic document feeder (ADF), if your model includes one.

Clean the Scanner Glass:

• Dust or smudges on the scanner glass can interfere with the alignment page detection. Clean the scanner glass thoroughly and try the alignment process again.

Adjust Paper Settings:

• Make sure the paper size and type settings in the printer driver match the actual paper loaded in the printer.
• Load paper properly into the input tray and ensure it is correctly aligned.

Perform a Manual Alignment:

• If the automatic alignment fails, you may need to perform a manual alignment. Check the printer’s user manual for instructions on performing a manual printhead alignment.

Update Firmware:

• Ensure your printer’s firmware is up to date. An outdated firmware may cause alignment issues. Visit the HP website to check for and download firmware updates.

Reset the Printer:

• Turn off the printer and unplug it from the power source. Wait for a few minutes, then plug it back in and turn it on. This can sometimes resolve alignment and printing position issues. 

Hope this helps! 

Take care, and have an amazing day!  

Did we resolve the issue? If yes, Please consider marking this post as "Accepted Solution" and click "Yes" to give us a helpful vote - your feedback keeps us going!  

Regards, 

[Space_Donkey]

This was not helpful.  Again, the alignment page is so far out of position, the scan doesn't register it being there.  

[zoey7886]

@Space_Donkey, Thanks for getting back to us—and I totally understand how frustrating this must be. It sounds like your printer is printing the alignment page so far off that when it tries to scan it, it's like looking for a picture in a blank frame.

Since you've already done a factory reset and confirmed scanning works otherwise, this definitely feels like a mechanical paper feed or calibration issue. Here's what I suggest next:

Check the Paper Feed Rollers:
Gently remove the paper, then inspect and clean the rollers inside the input tray. If they're dusty or not gripping evenly, the paper may not be starting at the right point. You can lightly dampen a lint-free cloth to clean them—just let them dry fully before reloading.

Use Fresh, Standard Paper:
Make sure you're using clean, 75-90 GSM white paper—slightly curled or glossy pages can slide unevenly, shifting the print alignment.

Realign via HP Smart App:
Try running the alignment again using the HP Smart app instead of the printer panel. Sometimes the app triggers a more precise calibration.

Hope this helps! 

Take care, and have an amazing day!  

Did we resolve the issue? If yes, Please consider marking this post as "Accepted Solution" and click "Yes" to give us a helpful vote - your feedback keeps us going!  

Regards,