HP smart tank 6000 will not print blue color. I have cleaned printer head and still nothing

[larbon]

HP smart tank will not print blue color. Other colors are fine. I have cleaned printer head and still no blue

[Kuroi_Kenshi]

Hi @larbon,

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 Smart Tank 6000 is not printing blue (cyan) even after cleaning the printhead. Let’s troubleshoot this step by step.

1. Check the Cyan Cartridge

Open the printer and remove the cyan cartridge.

Make sure it’s genuine HP and not empty or expired.

Reinsert it firmly until it clicks into place.

2. Check for Protective Tape

Make sure the orange protective tape on the contacts/nozzle has been removed.

Even a small piece left on the cartridge can prevent ink from flowing.

3. Run Deep Cleaning

Cleaning via HP Smart app sometimes isn’t enough.

Go to Printer Maintenance → Clean Printhead → Deep Cleaning (if available).

Run it 2–3 times, then print a test page.

4. Check for Clogs Manually

Turn off the printer and remove the printhead (if model allows).

Use a lint-free cloth slightly dampened with distilled water to gently clean the cyan nozzles.

Let it dry for a few minutes, then reinstall.

5. Check for Air Bubbles or Low Ink

If the cartridge recently ran low, there may be air trapped in the ink lines.

Remove the cartridge and gently shake it side to side to redistribute ink (do this carefully).

Reinsert and run another cleaning cycle.

6. Test Another Cartridge

If possible, replace the cyan cartridge with a new one.

If blue prints fine with the new cartridge, the previous cartridge was likely defective.

7. Update Printer Firmware

Open HP Smart → Printer Settings → Update.

Outdated firmware can sometimes cause color recognition or nozzle issues.

I hope this helps.

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Best regards,