Getting error message: Missing or failed print head

[roygore]

Had printer for many years working perfectly.  Recently installed new computer and upgraded to Windows 11.

Now getting error message:  Missing or Failed  print head

• I have cleaned the pring head and contacts throughly several times
• Have changed the ink cartridges.
• Have also reset printer head several times.
• Have reset printer head into position several times.
• Have followed the istructions to reset the printer.
• Have reinstalled the printer drivers several times.
• Have even purchased and installed a new print head 

But the same message still appears.

all scanning and copying features  work OK - but anything to do with printing does not work.

Help please!

•  

[Max3Aj]

@roygore, Welcome to HP Support Community. 

Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you. 
It sounds like you've been through a lot with your HP printer, and I understand how frustrating it can be when even a new print head doesn't resolve the issue. Let's work through the potential root causes and fixes step by step.

🔎 1. Firmware Issue / Internal Logic Fault

Since a new print head hasn't resolved the error, it could be due to:

• Firmware not recognizing the new print head.
• A faulty printer logic board or carriage flex cable.

✅ Try:

Partial Reset or Semi-Full Reset: This reset can clear internal error states and EEPROM memory glitches.

How to access the hidden service menu for reset:

1. Power on the printer.
2. Open the ink cartridge access door.
3. While the printer is still on, disconnect the power cord from the back.
4. Wait for 60 seconds.
5. Reconnect the power cord while pressing and holding # and 3 on the printer's keypad.
6. Wait for the printer to power on and go through the reset process.

For some models, the combination might be # and 6, or OK + Cancel + Black + Color.

Please let me know your exact printer model, and I can provide the specific reset steps.

💻 2. Driver Conflict or Windows 11 Compatibility

Older printers can behave unexpectedly after upgrading to Windows 11, especially if the full software suite isn't installed or if Windows auto-installed basic drivers.

✅ Try:

• Uninstall all HP software completely from Control Panel.
• Run the HP Print and Scan Doctor to help fix registry/driver issues.
• Install HP's full feature software (not just the basic driver) from HP’s website. Please provide your model, and I’ll send you the direct download link for the correct Windows 11 package.

🧠 3. Print Engine Hardware Failure

If everything else works (like scanning and copying) and only the print head fails to initialize, the issue may lie in the carriage electronics or print head controller chip inside the printer.

• You may see a persistent “Missing or Failed Printhead” message.
• If the printer cannot establish communication with the head anymore, this often isn’t repairable unless HP supports carriage replacements, which they typically do not for consumer-level printers.

I hope this helps. 

Take care and have a good day. 

Please click “Accepted Solution” if you feel my post solved your issue, it will help others find the solution. Click the “Kudos/Thumbs Up" on the bottom right to say “Thanks” for helping! 

Max3Aj

HP Support 

[roygore]

Thanks for your reply to my cry for help.

My printer details are:   

HP Photosmart 7520

(Edited)

I have tried to reset the printer several times and even putting the original print head back in the but still get the same message as soon as I turn on the printer.

I will try again following yoru instructions.

I will let you know how I get on.

Thanks for your help.

[Max3Aj]

@roygore, Thank you for your response. 

Since you've already replaced the printhead and even reinserted the original one, we're likely dealing with a firmware or internal printer logic issue, not a hardware printhead fault.

🔄 Let's Do a Semi-Full Reset (specific to HP Photosmart 7520)

This can sometimes clear persistent printhead or ink system errors stored in NVRAM:

⚙️ Hidden Service Menu Access:

• Make sure the printer is ON.
• On the touchscreen, press the Back button 4 times quickly.
• This will open a Support Menu.
• (If there's no physical "Back" button, tap the lower-left corner of the screen 4 times quickly.)
• Tap Support Menu → Resets Menu → Semi-Full Reset.
• The printer will power off automatically or prompt you to restart.
• After restart, you’ll need to go through the setup process again (language, region, etc.).

⚠️ This reset clears settings and stored error logs but keeps your firmware and usage counts.

💾 Optional: Full Software Reinstallation on Windows 11

After the reset, uninstall any old drivers and reinstall fresh ones:

• Uninstall all HP software via Control Panel > Programs and Features.
• Download the full software from HP (Windows 11 compatible):
• Avoid using "Add a Printer" via Windows Settings — always use HP’s full installer.

✅ After the Reset:

• Try printing a test page from the printer's screen.
• If that works, try printing from your PC.
• If you still get the same error immediately on power-up, even with both printheads, it's likely the printer's logic board or carriage board is failing, and unfortunately, this isn't a user-replaceable part on the Photosmart series.

I hope this helps!

If my response resolves your issue, please click “Accepted Solution” to help others find the answer. Also, don’t forget to click the “Kudos/Thumbs Up” button to say thanks!

Take care and have a great day.

Max3Aj

HP Support

[roygore]

Thanks for the additional instructions.

The only thing on the screen is the error message screen with the message Missing or faulty printhesd.  I can't get past this screen no matter what I try.

I've tried tapping 4 times all around the screen but nothing happens.

I've also uninstalledall HP related programs and reinstalled a new full version driver downloaded directly from HP.  But no difference.

Could this be a hardware problem?  Is there any way I can get to and check hardward connections etc.?

Thasnks again for all your help.

[roygore]

I will be away for the next week.

So, I will come back to my printer problem when I return

Thanks

[Max3Aj]

@roygore, Thank you for your response. 

Sure, please get back to us at your convenient time. 

Take care and have a great day.

Max3Aj

HP Support