faulty-leaking startup cartridges

[re_ka]

purchased 7740 in april 2022, but didn't need it then.. never unpacked.
Now new out of the box, trying to install with the setup cartridges, but keep getting the error cartridge leaking. Can only set up with start-up cartridges... how to obtain new start-up 952 cartridges? 
support phone# keeps me waiting for 3 hours already... 

[BongChaGomez]

Hello @re_ka ,

Welcome to HP Support Community.

We are sorry that you are having trouble with the printer setup. We see that you have purchased this in April 2022 and it remained in the box for 3 years unused. 

HP printers like the OfficeJet Pro 7740 require original setup cartridges (the ones that came in the box) to complete the initial printer setup. These cartridges are different from regular retail 952 cartridges — they have special firmware flags. If they’re damaged, leaking, or old, the printer may refuse to initialize and keep showing errors like:

• “Cartridge leaking”

• “Use SETUP cartridges”
  Even if the cartridges look unused.

If your new printer did not come with SETUP cartridges or they’re not recognized, you must contact HP Customer Support — these cartridges cannot be bought separately at retailers.

How to Get Replacement Setup Cartridges

📞 1. Contact HP Official Support (again) we are sorry about the wait time but it should not be that long wait. you can also opt for callback option on the IVR.

Since the printer won’t initialize without these setup cartridges, the only reliable way to get them is directly from HP’s support team.

✔ Explain you have a brand-new, unused printer that won’t complete setup due to leaking / bad setup cartridges.
✔ Stress that the issue started out of the box and the printer has never successfully initialized.
✔ Ask for replacement setup cartridges for your OfficeJet Pro 7740.

💡 Note: Setup cartridges are not sold in stores — they’re only provided with new printers or sent by HP support when there’s a defect.

📍 Since phone support is giving you very long wait times, try these alternatives:

• Use HP Live Chat on the HP support website

• Submit an online support ticket / case through the HP site

While you’re waiting for HP to send new setup cartridges, try these:

✅ Power Reset the Printer

1. Turn off the printer.

2. Unplug it from the wall (not a surge protector).

3. Wait 60 seconds.

4. Plug it back in and power on.
   This refreshes the printer logic and sometimes makes it accept cartridges.

✅ Reinstall the Cartridges

1. Open the cartridge access door.

2. Remove them and wait a minute.

3. Carefully reseat them firmly into the slots.
   Incorrect seating can trigger errors.

Please note that do not use third-party cartridges during setup — that can make the printer stick at the error screen. Genuine HP setup cartridges are required.

Hope this helps!