I am getting printer failure event code: 71.02.4A. I have restarted and unplugged the printer.

[John-W5]

hp office jet pro 8020 series (8028).   error message: PRINTER FAILURE 71.02.4A

[John-W5]

Does anyone know  how to remedy this?  I tried turning printer off and on a few times, disconnected power source, checked firmware and all up to date. 

[Hawks_Eye]

Hi @John-W5 

Welcome to the HP Support Community! We're here to help you get back up and running.

Thanks for hanging in there—seeing that 71.02.4A printer failure message is definitely frustrating, especially after you've already tried the usual restart and unplug routine. 

That code typically points to a cartridge or printhead issue, and we can try a few deeper steps to help clear it up.

🧼 Step 1: Remove and Reset the Cartridges

1. Power on the printer.
2. Open the cartridge access door and wait for the carriage to stop moving.
3. Remove all ink cartridges carefully.
4. Unplug the power cord from both the printer and the wall outlet.
5. Wait 60 seconds.
6. Plug the power cord back in and turn the printer on without inserting the cartridges yet.
7. Once prompted, reinsert the cartridges one by one and close the door.

This sequence helps reset the cartridge detection system.

🧽 Step 2: Clean Cartridge and Printhead Contacts

• Use a lint-free cloth slightly dampened with distilled water.
• Gently wipe the copper-colored contacts on each cartridge.
• Also clean the contacts inside the carriage where cartridges sit.
• Let everything dry before reinserting.

🔄 Step 3: Perform a Full Printer Reset

If the error persists:

• Turn off the printer.
• Unplug the power cord and press and hold the power button for 10 seconds.
• Plug it back in and power on.

Some users have found success by manually moving the cartridge carriage to the center while the printer is off, then reinserting cartridges before powering back on.

🧠 Step 4: Check for Mechanical Jam

If the cartridge carriage is stuck far to one side and won’t move:

• Power off and unplug the printer.
• Open the access door and gently slide the carriage to the center.
• If it resists, don’t force it—there may be a mechanical jam that needs service.

If none of these steps resolve the issue, the printer may need a service intervention to inspect the printhead mechanism or internal sensors. 

But fingers crossed—we’ll get it sorted without that. Let me know what happens after trying these steps, and I’ll be right here to help with the next move!

If my response helped, please mark it as an Accepted Solution! ✅ It helps others and spreads support. 💙 Also, tapping "Yes" on "Was this reply helpful?" makes a big difference! Thanks! 😊

Take care, and have an amazing day!

Regards, 

Hawks_Eye