Bogus cartridge error message, printer refuses printing DeskJet 4120e

[asdfaw]

Dear HP,
i have had it up to here.
Our HP DeskJet 4120e does not accept original HP Cartridges any longer,
same goes for our Envy 4500 Series.
Particularly on the 4120 i have now taken the time for troubleshooting, and boy...
I am pissed.

The printer driver sais "up to date" with HP-Smart.
I have performed a Clean Swipe via HP Smart-App
I have performed multiple hard resets via power down button and subsequent power cable removement.
I have put in multiple hours because the app is misguiding, constantly asking for location permissions
for no reason. I am installing a printer. Even for USB-Connection i needed to activate it although data is not transmitted through the air,
therefore not able to violate any country specific wifi regulations.
How would you feel if i asked you: "tell me your address so i can look it up on the map?
Just wanna connect a few dots, anonymously of course?"
Do you consider this in order? I do not.
This is outrageous.

And despite conducting all that was asked, the DeskJet will still not accept the cartridges.
These are new. Bought in february, march.
Back then we already had brand new cartridges which according to the printer were to be replaced.
We wondered back then but now we know it has become an ongoing pattern since last year.
Since we are not using the printers frequently (few pages once every few months/weeks) we naturally not have any interest in cartridge subscriptions.
Those are not the amounts we consume. I do not see a legit reason why we would pay for it.
But every time after a few weeks/months period of idleness if we want to print something real quick,
then the printers reject the cartridge and we are to buy a new one.
That would be one cartridge for every two pages, which is ridiculous of course.

Another time consuming step, really annoying.
I do this for a relative so, do not wonder why i have no registered products.
I could not add them since they are registered elsewhere, with us somewhere hopefully.
So HP Smart will complain setup was not completed.
Genious.
I have no sympathies at the moment.

These printers are not the latest ones, but if i hate one thing then it's bogus error messages.
Our cartridges are all new, original, and they should be working. That must be fixed.
I am not spending another cent on anything hp-related until i get a solution.

[Hawks_Eye]

Hi @asdfaw 

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

I understand your frustration with the cartridge error message on your HP DeskJet 4120e. 

Here are some steps you can try to resolve the issue:

Verify Cartridge Compatibility:

• Ensure that the cartridges you are using are indeed compatible with the HP DeskJet 4120e. Use only original HP ink cartridges specified for this printer model.

Reinsert Cartridges:

• Open the printer's access door to reach the cartridges. Remove them carefully and reinsert them, ensuring they are securely positioned in their slots.

Clean the Cartridge Contacts:

• Carefully clean the electrical contacts on the cartridges and in the printer with a lint-free cloth or cotton swab. Make sure not to touch the nozzles or remove any copper strips.

Firmware Update:

• Check if there's a firmware update available for your printer. Sometimes updates resolve compatibility issues.

Use Single-Cartridge Mode:

• If one cartridge is problematic, remove it and try printing with the remaining cartridge using the single-cartridge mode.

Manufacturer Support:

• If the problem persists, contact HP Support for further assistance. They can provide specific help and potentially repair options.

If you've tried all these steps and still face issues, it’s advisable to reach out directly to HP support or a local authorized service center for more detailed troubleshooting or repair.

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