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- HP Community
- Printers
- Printer Setup, Software & Drivers
- bad cartridge

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07-23-2025 02:41 PM
@nothankyou800, Welcome to HP Support Community,
Thank you for posting your query; I’m here to help by guiding you through steps to resolve this issue
If your HP printer is displaying cartridge errors such as "cartridge leaking/defective," it may prevent you from scanning or printing. Here's a guide to troubleshoot and resolve these issues:
Check the Cartridges:
- Open the printer's cartridge access door.
- Ensure the cartridges are correctly installed and compatible with your printer model.
Inspect for Leaks:
- Carefully inspect each cartridge for signs of leakage or physical damage.
- If a cartridge is leaking, remove it and clean the area around the cartridge holder with a damp cloth to prevent any ink contamination.
Reset the Printer:
- Turn off the printer and disconnect it from the power source for a minute.
- Reconnect the power source and turn on the printer. This step can sometimes resolve temporary errors.
Replace Defective Cartridges:
- If a cartridge is defective, it is advisable to replace it with a new one.
- Ensure that the replacement cartridge is genuine and compatible with your specific printer model.
Clean the Contacts:
- If the cartridge error persists, remove the cartridge and gently clean the copper contacts with a lint-free cloth.
- Reinstall the cartridge and ensure it clicks into place securely.
Check Printer Software:
- Make sure you have the latest printer software and drivers installed on your computer. Outdated software can lead to compatibility issues.
Also, I suggest you refer to this guide: HP ink cartridge issues including, incompatible, missing and not recognized errors | HP® Support
I hope this helps.
Please feel free to reply here if you have any questions or if you need further clarification on any of the steps.
Take care and have a good day.
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Regards,
Garp_Senchau
I am an HP Employee