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‎06-02-2025 12:45 PM

HP Recommended

My HP PHOTOSMART plus B210a continues to show "Ink System Failure" on the screen after following all the unplug clean insert new ink cartridges directives.  Was working just fine and had a paper jam which resolved, but now ever since get this error.  Just invested in ink cartridges. so pretty unhappy. please advise. I have MacBook 2023

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‎06-03-2025 10:08 AM

HP Recommended

Hi @merleCeed 

 

Welcome to the HP Support Community!

 

Thanks for posting your query! We're here to help you get back up and running.

 

I understand how frustrating this must be—especially after investing in new ink cartridges. The "Ink System Failure" error on the HP Photosmart Plus B210a can be caused by clogged printheads, firmware issues, or residual ink system errors. Let's go through some HP-specific troubleshooting steps to resolve this.

 

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting for Ink System Failure

 

1. Perform a Hard Reset

  • Turn off the printer and unplug it from the power source.
  • Wait 60 seconds, then plug it back in and turn it on.
  • This can help clear any temporary ink system errors.

2. Remove and Reinstall the Ink Cartridges

  • Open the ink cartridge access door.
  • Remove all ink cartridges and inspect them for any damage or leaks.
  • Reinsert them firmly into their respective slots until they click into place.
  • Close the access door and check if the error persists.

3. Clean the Printhead Manually

  • Remove the ink cartridges and locate the printhead.
  • Use a lint-free cloth slightly dampened with distilled water to gently wipe the copper contacts on the printhead.
  • Allow it to dry completely before reinserting.

4. Perform a Printhead Cleaning from the Printer Menu

  • On the printer’s control panel, navigate to Setup > Printer Maintenance > Clean Printhead.
  • Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the cleaning process.

5. Update Printer Firmware

  • Open HP Smart on your MacBook.
  • Go to Printer Settings > Advanced Settings > Firmware Update.
  • Install any available updates and restart the printer.

6. Try a Semi-Full Reset

  • Turn off the printer and unplug it.
  • Press and hold the Back (↩️) and Cancel (❌) buttons.
  • While holding both buttons, plug the power cord back in.
  • Continue holding the buttons until the printer turns on and displays the reset menu.
  • Select Reset or Semi-Full Reset from the menu.

 

Let me know if you need further clarification! I know how frustrating printer errors can be, but hopefully, this gets your HP Photosmart Plus B210a back to printing properly. 😊

 

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

I am an HP Employee.

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! 
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‎06-03-2025 01:26 PM

HP Recommended

already performed every step except for the inability to reset using back button and power becuz the screen doesnt show, will not show back button.  Also, hp website shows no link to check for updating firmware/ hardware/ and have reset printer etc etc... i havnt cleaned the actual metal parts of new ink cartridges, and going to try that again so very helpful those steps.  Spent most of the day yesterday doing the steps over n over.  Im going to dry doing what i can from your list.  HP far as i can see, doesnt have new printheads to purchase even and Ive tried contacting w/messaging and email and website says wording like

  "Oooops not your fault its our tech difficulty" 

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‎06-06-2025 11:15 AM

HP Recommended

@merleCeed, I see you were interacting with @Hawks_Eye however, he's away for now and I'd love to help you out!

 

Thanks for reaching out! I suggest you reach out to the nearest HP Authorised service center for personalized assistance. They can provide one-on-one help to fix the problem. 

  

Note: There might be a nominal charge for the service they provide. 

  

HP® Service Center Locator - United States | HP® Support 

  

Regards, 

ZOEY7886
I am an HP Employee

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‎06-08-2025 09:37 PM

HP Recommended

Thnks and now trying find a hp service place near me... can u direct?

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‎06-09-2025 01:12 PM

HP Recommended

@merleCeed 

 

You are Welcome!

 

Sure, I'd be glad to assist you in this regards.

 

Click on the link below and fill in the required details to find the closest service center and their availability.

 

Service Center Locator: https://support.hp.com/us-en/service-center

 

Thanks!

Vinod - HP Global Social Media Support.

I am an HP Employee.

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! 
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