Missing or failed printhead. Have cleaned and reseated. Will new printhead likely fix?

[LevangerT]

Getting error message "Missing or failed printhead" also "The printhead appears to be missing, not detected or incorrectly installed. When I took the printhead out it had ink on the bottom which I cleaned off using bottled water on a paper towel. Cleaned connections with bottled water on paper towel.  Put it back in, same problem. Reseated it multiple times, same problem. 

[Raj_05 · Accepted solution]

Hi @LevangerT,

Welcome to HP Support Community.  

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

The "Missing or failed printhead" error message on your HP Officejet Pro 8625 e-All-in-One printer typically indicates a problem with the printhead or its connection. Since you've already attempted some troubleshooting steps, here are some additional steps you can try to resolve the issue.

• Check for Protective Tape: Make sure there is no protective tape or film covering the printhead's contacts or nozzles. This tape is often applied to prevent damage during shipping and should be removed before installing the printhead.
• Verify Printhead Installation: Ensure that the printhead is correctly installed. It should fit securely into its designated slot, and you should hear a click when it's properly seated. Make sure it's aligned correctly and not loose.
• Restart the Printer: Power off the printer, unplug it from the power source, wait for a few minutes, and then plug it back in and turn it on. Sometimes, a simple power cycle can help resolve the issue.
• Update Firmware: Check if there is a firmware update available for your printer on the HP support website. Sometimes, firmware updates can address various hardware issues.
• Clean Printhead Contacts: Use distilled water or isopropyl alcohol on a lint-free cloth or cotton swab to gently clean the electrical contacts on the printhead and in the printer where it connects. Be sure to allow time for everything to dry before reinserting the printhead.
• Replace Printhead: If you've tried all the above steps and the problem persists, it's possible that the printhead itself is faulty. In this case, you may need to replace the printhead. 

Before attempting any of these steps, it's important to refer to your printer's user manual for specific instructions on handling the printhead and troubleshooting. Additionally, take precautions to avoid any damage to the printhead and the printer while performing these actions.

I hope this helps. 
 

Take care and have a good day.

Please click “Accepted Solution” if you feel my post solved your issue, it will help others find the solution. Click the “Kudos/Thumbs Up" on the bottom right to say “Thanks” for helping!

Alden4
HP Support 

[LevangerT]

Thank you for your reply Alden4. It was kind of what I expected the answer to be. I have already done everything but replace the printhead. I think there is a high likelihood that replacing the printhead would solve the problem. However, the printer is seven years old and even at the low volume of print that I do has printed several cartons of paper. If I was sure the printhead would fix the problem I would spend the $140 to do that because it has been a very effective printer. For twice that amount I can get a printer with similar capability that I am sure will work because the warranty on a new machine provides that assurance.  So, thanks again for your help but I am off to buy a new printer.