I am having trouble getting my printer to recognize the ink cartridges. It is giving an E0 error

[shannonsanders]

I am having issues with the printer recognizing the ink cartridges. I am getting a E0 error with a solid orange light showing on the color ink cartridge and neither the color or black are showing any bars even after adding new cartridges. Help - what do I do? Turning it off and unplugging have not reset it to get it back functioning again. 

[Max3Aj]

@shannonsanders, Hello and welcome to the HP Support Community!

Thanks for posting your question. I'm here to help you get things back on track.

The E0 error on your HP printer, along with a solid orange light on the color cartridge and no ink level bars showing, typically indicates a cartridge recognition issue—often due to incompatible, defective, or improperly installed cartridges.

Here are some steps to help resolve this:

Check Cartridge Compatibility

• Make sure you're using genuine HP ink cartridges that are compatible with your printer model.
• You can verify compatibility here: Which cartridges work with my HP printer? | HP® Support

Inspect the Cartridges

• Remove both cartridges.
• Check for:
  • Protective tape still covering the copper contacts or ink nozzles.
  • Any visible damage or leakage.
  • Dirt or ink buildup on the copper contacts.

Clean Cartridge Contacts

• Use a lint-free cloth slightly dampened with distilled water.
• Gently wipe the copper-colored contacts on the cartridge and the corresponding contacts inside the printer.
• Let them dry for 5 minutes before reinserting.

Reinstall Cartridges Properly

• Insert the black cartridge first, then the color cartridge.
• Ensure they click firmly into place.

Power Reset the Printer

• With cartridges removed, unplug the printer from power.
• Wait 60 seconds.
• Plug it back in and turn it on.
• Reinsert cartridges when prompted.

Update Printer Firmware

• Sometimes firmware updates resolve cartridge recognition issues.
• Use HP Smart or HP Easy Start to check for updates: Official HP® Support
• Update the firmware on an HP printer | HP® Support

If the issue persists:

• Try using a different set of genuine HP cartridges.

I hope the information shared has been useful and resolves your concern.

Wishing you a smooth and hassle-free experience ahead!

If this solution helped, please click “Accepted Solution” so others can benefit too. Don’t forget to hit the “Yes” button if you found this helpful!

Warm regards,

Max3Aj

HP Support