An error message remains on the printer screen - cannot get to the home screen on the printer

[SP-1949]

The following error message remains on the screen even after rebooting the printer (multiple times): 

X  Printer Failure

There is a problem with the printer or ink system. Turn the printer off, then on. If problem persists, contact HP.

[Hawks_Eye · Accepted solution]

Hi @SP-1949 

Welcome to the HP Support Community! We're here to help you get back up and running.

Thanks for explaining the situation so clearly—when your HP OfficeJet Pro 8625 is stuck on a “Printer Failure – There is a problem with the printer or ink system” message and won’t reach the home screen, it’s often due to a printhead fault, carriage obstruction, or firmware-level lockout. 

Since rebooting hasn’t helped, let’s walk through a deeper recovery process.

 

Step-by-Step Recovery for HP OfficeJet Pro 8625 Printer Failure

 

1. Perform a Full Power Reset

This clears residual memory and forces hardware reinitialization.

• With the printer powered on, unplug the power cord from the back
• Unplug it from the wall outlet as well
• Wait 60 seconds
• Plug it directly into a wall outlet (avoid surge protectors)
• Reconnect the printer and power it on

If the error persists, continue to the next step.

 

2. Check for Carriage Obstructions

A blocked or jammed printhead carriage can trigger system failure.

• Power off the printer
• Open the ink access door
• Gently inspect the carriage path for:
  • Crumpled paper
  • Dislodged labels
  • Ink buildup or debris
• Manually slide the carriage left and right to ensure smooth movement
• Close the door and power on

 

3. Reseat the Printhead Assembly

Loose or misaligned printhead contacts can cause ink system errors.

• Remove all ink cartridges
• Lift the latch holding the printhead in place
• Carefully remove the printhead and inspect the copper contacts
• Clean gently with a lint-free cloth
• Reinsert the printhead and lock the latch
• Reinstall cartridges and restart the printer

HP recommends reseating the printhead up to three times if the error persists.

 

4. Update Firmware (if accessible via USB)

If the printer is recognized by your PC despite the error screen:

• Download the latest firmware from the HP OfficeJet Pro 8625 Driver Page
• Use HP Firmware Updater to push the update via USB
• This may clear firmware-level lockouts

 

5. Manual Printhead Cleaning (Advanced)

If reseating doesn’t help, a deeper clean may be needed.

• HP provides a video guide for manual printhead cleaning using warm distilled water and a lint-free cloth
• This can restore ink flow and sensor readings

 

I know how disruptive this is—especially when the printer won’t even reach the home screen.  Let’s get your OfficeJet Pro 8625 back to working order.

If my response helped, please mark it as an Accepted Solution! ✅ It helps others and spreads support. 💙 Also, tapping "Yes" on "Was this reply helpful?" makes a big difference! Thanks! 😊

Take care, and have an amazing day!

Regards, 

Hawks_Eye