HP 6950 not printing. Printhead problem message displayed.

[krec]

Hi everyone. My HP6950 is stuck on an error saying printhead problem and it doesn't print or copy anything. I've opened the cover and the printhead looks fine. It moves back and forward without any, at least, seen problems and allows me to get the cartdriges off. I've cleaned the ink exit and the problem remained. Thanks for the help.

[Sneha_01]

Hi @krec,

Welcome to HP Support Community.

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

If your HP OfficeJet Pro 6950 is showing a "Printhead Problem" message and is unable to print or copy, despite the printhead appearing to move normally and allowing cartridge removal, there are several steps you can take to troubleshoot and resolve the issue. Here’s a detailed guide:

1. Check for and Resolve Physical Issues

Turn Off and Unplug:

• Power off the printer and unplug it from the power source. Wait for about 60 seconds before plugging it back in.

Remove and Reinstall Printhead:

• Open the printer cover and carefully remove the printhead.
• Reinstall the printhead, ensuring it is properly seated in its carriage. Make sure there are no obstructions or misalignments.

Inspect Printhead and Cartridges:

• Check the printhead and cartridges for any visible damage or debris. If you see any ink build-up or blockage, gently clean the printhead contacts with a soft, lint-free cloth or a cotton swab lightly dampened with distilled water or isopropyl alcohol.

2. Clean Printhead and Cartridges

Run Printhead Cleaning Cycle:

• Access the printer’s control panel menu and look for maintenance or cleaning options.
• Run the printhead cleaning utility to clear any clogs or blockages. Follow the on-screen instructions.

Manual Cleaning:

• If the automatic cleaning doesn’t work, you may need to perform manual cleaning. Carefully clean the printhead contacts and the area where the cartridges sit.

3. Check Ink Cartridges

Verify Cartridge Installation:

• Ensure that all ink cartridges are properly installed and seated in their respective slots.
• Replace any cartridges that are empty or damaged.

Inspect Cartridges:

• Make sure that the cartridges are not leaking or have dried ink around the nozzles. Replace any cartridges that look damaged or have dried ink.

4. Perform a Printer Reset:

• Perform a power reset by turning off the printer, unplugging it from the power source, and waiting for at least 60 seconds before plugging it back in and turning it on.

Factory Reset:

• If the power reset doesn’t resolve the issue, you might need to perform a factory reset. Consult your printer’s manual or the HP support website for instructions on how to perform a factory reset. Note that this will erase any customized settings on the printer.

5. Check for Firmware Updates

1. Update Firmware:
   • Check if there are any available firmware updates for your printer. Visit the HP Support website and search for your printer model to download and install the latest firmware updates.

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

[krec]

Many thanks Rachel. I've tried everything besides taking out the printhead. Unfortunatelly I couldn't do it and I couldn't find any tutorial explaining how to do it. My guess is that this model doesn't allow to take it out.

Can you please confirm if this is true?

Nothing else solved the problem.

[Sneha_01]

Hi @krec 

I'm sending out a private message to assist you with the next course of action. In order to access your private messages, click the private message icon on the upper right corner of your HP Support Community profile, next to your profile Name.

Hope this helps! Keep me posted for further assistance.

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