Hp 6970 only printing in b&w

[DW155]

HP 6970 only printing in black & white. I've deleted the printer and software, re-installed both, took out cartridges, turned off power, reinstalled cartridges....everything that was mentioned on the discussion boards and all I get is black print. My printer setting on the documents is set to color. I copied a color document and it only prints in b&w. I cleaned the heads 3 x, aligned the print heads....I did all of that and still no color. It did scan in color

[VikramTheGreat]

Hi @DW155,

Welcome to the HP Support Community.
 

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

I can imagine how frustrating this is. Your HP OfficeJet Pro 6970 should be printing vibrant color, and instead, you’re getting only black and white even after doing all the right steps. Let’s work through this together.

Why This Happens

• Clogged or dried color nozzles (even after cleaning cycles).
• Vent holes on color cartridges are blocked.
• Firmware or driver settings are forcing grayscale.
• Internal printhead failure.

Recommended Fix

1. Check Cartridge Vents

• Remove each color cartridge.
• Inspect the small vent hole under the label.
• If blocked, gently clear with a pin.
• Reinstall cartridges firmly.

2. Confirm Print Settings

• In your app or driver: 
  • Print → Properties → Color Options → Color (not grayscale or black ink only).
• Also check HP Printer Assistant → Print Settings.

3. Run Deep Printhead Cleaning

• On the printer: 
  • Setup → Printer Maintenance → Clean Printhead.
• If still no color, run Second-Level Cleaning.
• Print a Print Quality Diagnostic Page: 
  • Setup → Reports → Print Quality Report.
• If magenta/cyan/yellow blocks are missing, the printhead is clogged or damaged.

4. Update Firmware

• Go to HP OfficeJet Pro 6970 All-in-One Printer series | HP® Support.
• Enter OfficeJet Pro 6970 and install the latest firmware.

5. Manual Printhead Cleaning

• Remove cartridges.
• Moisten a lint-free cloth with distilled water.
• Gently wipe the printhead contacts.
• Let it dry and reinstall.

I hope this helps.

Take care and have an amazing day!
 

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Regards,

VikramTheGreat