HP5200 wont print black ink

[celia24]

My printer is HP5200 office jet. It wont print black ink. There is no error or needs ink message. I replaced ink cartridge to see if that helps. I can print colors but no black.

[Sneha_01]

Hi @celia24,

Welcome to HP Support Community.

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

If your HP Officejet 5200 is not printing black ink, even after replacing the cartridge, there are several troubleshooting steps you can take to resolve the issue. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you:

1. Check the Black Ink Cartridge:

Ensure Proper Installation:

• Make sure the black ink cartridge is properly installed. It should be securely seated in its slot.

Inspect the Cartridge:

• Remove the black ink cartridge and check for any protective tape or packaging that might not have been removed.

2. Clean the Print Head:

Use Printer’s Cleaning Function:

• Access the printer’s maintenance menu from the control panel.
• Look for an option like Clean Printhead or Clean Cartridges and follow the prompts. This function helps clear any clogs in the print head that might be blocking black ink.

Manual Cleaning (if needed):

• If the automatic cleaning doesn’t work, you can manually clean the print head.
• Remove the cartridge and use a lint-free cloth or cotton swab lightly moistened with distilled water or isopropyl alcohol to gently clean the print head contacts.

3. Check Ink Levels and Cartridges:

• Ensure the black ink cartridge has enough ink. Sometimes, a cartridge may be new but still have a low ink level.
• If possible, try using a different black ink cartridge that you know is working to see if the issue persists.

4. Run Printer Diagnostics:

• From the printer’s control panel or software on your computer, print a test page. This can help identify if the black ink issue is related to print settings or a deeper hardware problem.
• Ensure there are no hidden error messages or warnings related to the black ink cartridge.

5. Check Printer Settings:

• On your computer, go to the printer settings and ensure that black ink is selected for printing. Sometimes, settings may default to using color ink only.:
• Ensure that the printer is set as the default printer and that there are no conflicting settings.

6. Update Printer Drivers and Firmware:

• Visit the HP Support website and download the latest drivers for your HP Officejet 5200. Outdated drivers can sometimes cause printing issues.
• Check for any firmware updates available for your printer and install them as they can resolve compatibility and functionality issues.

7. Perform a Printer Reset:

• Reset the Printer:
  • Turn off the printer and unplug it from the power source.
  • Wait for about a minute, then plug it back in and turn it on. This can sometimes reset internal components and clear temporary issues.

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