0x6100004a cartridge stuck

[TJM69]

After startup, printer MX in progress followed by paper jam error.  There is none.  

I discovered the ink cartridge carrier is stuck to the right.  I cannot manually move it left. I cannot remove cartridges where it sits.  
I’ve done all the recommended interventions, even factory resetting it, multiple times to no avail!  I keep getting error 0x6100004a.  
HELP!

[Sneha_01]

Hi @TJM69 

Welcome to HP Support Community.

Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you.

It sounds like you're dealing with a stuck cartridge carrier in your printer, which is causing the 0x6100004a error and preventing you from removing the cartridges. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you resolve the issue:

1. Power Off and Unplug the Printer

• Turn off the printer and unplug it from the power source. This will ensure safety while working on the printer.
• Wait at least 10-15 seconds to allow the printer to reset internally.

2. Check for Obstructions

• Carefully inspect the area around the cartridge carrier for any small pieces of paper, debris, or foreign objects that might be blocking the cartridge carrier's movement.
• If you see any obstructions, remove them carefully using a pair of tweezers or your hands (be gentle to avoid damaging the printer).

3. Gently Move the Cartridge Carrier

• With the printer powered off, gently try to move the cartridge carrier by hand from left to right.
• If it’s stuck, apply very light pressure to see if it will loosen. Do not force it. If it moves slightly, continue gently guiding it.

If it still doesn’t move, this might indicate a more serious issue inside the mechanism.

4. Check for Cartridge Alignment Issues

• Sometimes, the cartridges themselves can get misaligned, causing the carrier to get stuck. Remove the cartridges (if possible) to check for any misalignment or damage.
• Ensure that the cartridges are properly seated back into their slots before continuing.

5. Manually Move the Carrier with the Printer Off

• If the cartridge carrier is still stuck, you can try manually moving the cartridge carrier when the printer is powered off:
  • Carefully use a flat tool like a plastic card (a credit card, or similar) to gently nudge the carrier if it's only slightly stuck. Make sure to avoid damaging the printer’s internal components.
  • If the carrier is jammed tightly, this may indicate a mechanical issue that would require professional service.

6. Perform a Printer Reset

• After trying to move the cartridge carrier, plug the printer back in, but do not turn it on yet.
• Press and hold the Power button for about 15 seconds to perform a hard reset. This can sometimes clear errors related to stuck cartridges or mechanical issues.

7. Check the Paper Path for Jammed Paper

• Although the error says “paper jam,” it's still a good idea to carefully inspect the paper path for any paper scraps that might be blocking the printer's internal components.
• Use a flashlight if needed to look into the paper tray and other accessible areas to see if there’s anything lodged in the way.

8. Clean the Ink Carriage Area

• If the cartridge carrier still won’t move, you may want to clean the ink carriage area to ensure there is no ink buildup that could be causing it to get stuck.
• Use a lint-free cloth lightly dampened with water to wipe down the area around the cartridge carrier.

9. Check the Printer for Any Additional Errors

• Once you’ve performed the above steps, power the printer back on and check if the error message is cleared.
• If the error message still appears or the cartridge carrier does not move, try to see if the printer display or any additional diagnostic tools provide more specific details.

I hope this helps.

Take care and have a good day.

Please mark this post as “Accepted Solution” if the issue is resolved and if you feel this reply was helpful click “Yes”.

Rachel571

HP Support