My printer is stuck during set up, asking me to put in ink cartridges. They have been in.

[Geo741]

Printer is HP OfficeJet 6958. I’ve had in for a couple of years. I can’t get it to  get past this cartridge step to start up. I’ve tried shutting off and on several times. 

[Sneha_01]

Hi @Geo741,

Welcome to HP Support Community.

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

When your HP OfficeJet 6958 printer is stuck on the "install ink cartridges" step even though the cartridges are already installed, here are several troubleshooting steps you can follow:

Check Cartridge Installation:

• Open the ink cartridge access door and ensure the cartridges are correctly seated in their respective slots.
• Press down on each cartridge to make sure it clicks into place securely.

Clean the Cartridges and Contacts:

• Turn off the printer and unplug it from the power source.
• Remove the ink cartridges.
• Use a lint-free cloth slightly dampened with distilled water to gently clean the electrical contacts on the cartridges and the corresponding contacts inside the printer.
• Allow the contacts to dry completely before reinserting the cartridges.

Reset the Printer:

• Disconnect the power cord from the back of the printer and the wall outlet.
• Wait for about 60 seconds.
• Plug the power cord back into the wall outlet and then into the back of the printer.
• Turn on the printer and see if it progresses past the cartridge installation step.

Update Printer Firmware:

• Sometimes firmware updates can resolve issues with cartridge recognition.
• Go to the HP Support website and search for your printer model.
• Download and install any available firmware updates following the on-screen instructions.

Use Genuine HP Cartridges:

• Ensure you are using genuine HP ink cartridges, as third-party or refilled cartridges might not be recognized correctly.
• If you suspect the cartridges are faulty, try replacing them with new genuine HP cartridges.

Check for Obstructions:

• Inspect the cartridge area and the carriage path for any obstructions or packaging materials that might have been left inside the printer.
• Remove any found obstructions carefully.

Printer Hard Reset:

• Turn off the printer.
• Disconnect all cables (including power, USB, etc.).
• Wait for about 2 minutes.
• Reconnect all cables and turn the printer back on.

I hope this helps.

Take care and have a good day.

Please mark this post as “Accepted Solution” if the issue is resolved and if you feel this reply was helpful click “Yes”.

Rachel571

HP Support

[Geo741]

I’ve tried all the things suggested and even put in new HP ink cartridges, but I’m having no luck. Any other thoughts?