Cartridge error and printer will no longer print

[Beckahanne]

Installed new cartridges into my HP Envy 3161e and now I keep getting cartridge errors. Tried all the troubleshooting of resetting printer, cleaning cartridges and so on with still no luck. Decided the cartridges must be defective and ordered replacement ones through my instant ink subscription. Installed the new cartridges into the printer and still getting the same error. This has been quite a frustrating experience 

[Kuroi_Kenshi]

Hi @Beckahanne,

Welcome to the HP Support Community!

Thanks for reaching out!

We're thrilled to have the opportunity to assist you and provide a solution.

I understand your HP Envy 3161e printer is showing a cartridge error even after replacing with new Instant Ink cartridges. Let’s go through a few detailed steps to fix this.

a. Check Cartridge Compatibility

Ensure both cartridges are HP 67 or 67XL (for the Envy 3161e series).

Instant Ink cartridges are region-specific — make sure they match the region your printer was first set up in.

If you recently moved countries, the printer might reject new cartridges due to region-locking.

b. Clean the Cartridge Contacts

Power off the printer and unplug it.

Open the access door and gently remove both cartridges.

Use a lint-free cloth slightly dampened with distilled water to clean the copper-colored contacts on both the cartridges and inside the printer.

Wait for them to dry completely (about 5 minutes), then reinstall the cartridges firmly until they click into place.

c. Reset the Printer

Unplug the power cord while the printer is ON.

Wait for 60 seconds.

Plug it back in directly to a wall outlet (not a surge protector) and power it on.

Check if the error clears.

d. Check for Firmware Updates

From the printer control panel or HP Smart app → Printer Settings → Advanced Settings → Printer Update.

Outdated firmware can sometimes cause cartridge recognition issues, especially with Instant Ink.

e. Remove and Reinstall HP Smart App

Uninstall and reinstall the HP Smart app on your computer or phone.

Reconnect your printer and check for error messages under Printer Status.

f. Disable and Re-enable Instant Ink (for test)

Log into your HP Instant Ink account.

Temporarily remove the printer or pause the subscription and re-add it after a few minutes.

Reinstall the Instant Ink cartridges and check if they’re recognized.

g. Try a Manual Alignment Reset

On the printer’s touchscreen or HP Smart app, go to Printer Maintenance → Align Cartridges.

If the alignment fails, it’s a strong sign the printer isn’t recognizing at least one of the cartridges properly.

h. If the Error Persists

The cartridge sensors or the carriage may not be reading correctly.

Try swapping the color and black cartridges one at a time to see if one specific cartridge triggers the error.

If both give the same error, it’s likely an internal sensor or firmware fault within the printer.

I hope this helps.

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Best regards,