PRINTER

[VETSBUILT]

I have a MacBook. I bought a HP 4252e printer.  I can not print in color.  I could and it suddenly stopped so I bought new cartridges and still nothing.  When I go to PRINT, I don't see the option to print in B&W and or color.  Nothing....  It's NOT there!

I just spent 45 minutes looking at YouTube videos and reading but nothing helps.

Sorry to bother ytou but I need help!

THX.  Bob

[Gaya1239]

Hi @VETSBUILT,

Welcome to The HP Support Community.  

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

I understand you are facing an issue with your HP DeskJet 4252e printing in color again! Since you’re using a MacBook and the color option is missing, here are some troubleshooting steps to follow:

1. Check Printer and Driver Settings

• Update the printer driver:
  1. Go to the Apple menu > System Settings > Printers & Scanners.
  2. Select your HP DeskJet 4252e and click the (-) button to remove it.
  3. Re-add the printer by clicking the (+) button. Choose the correct printer model from the list.
  4. Ensure "HP" is selected for the driver, not "AirPrint."
• Install HP Easy Start:
  • Download the latest version of HP Easy Start from the HP website.
  • Follow the instructions to reinstall the printer software.

2. Check Printer Defaults on Mac

• When you print:
  1. In the print dialog, click Show Details (if hidden).
  2. Check for a dropdown menu labeled Presets or Media & Quality.
  3. Look for the Color Options section.
     • Ensure the Print in Grayscale or Black & White box is unchecked.
     • If this option is missing, it’s a driver issue—reinstall the driver as noted above.

3. Printer Preferences on the Printer Itself

• On the printer’s control panel:
  1. Go to Settings or Preferences.
  2. Navigate to Print Settings or Color Options.
  3. Ensure "Color" is selected instead of "Grayscale."

4. Run Diagnostics 

• Open HP Smart on your Mac (download from the HP printer setup (HP Smart app)).
• Use the "Print Quality Tools" or "Clean Printheads" feature to ensure the printer is functioning correctly.
• Print a test page from the app. If it’s black and white, it may point to a hardware or configuration issue.

5. Check Cartridge Compatibility

• Ensure you’re using genuine HP 67 or HP 67XL cartridges (compatible with the HP DeskJet 4252e).
• Make sure the cartridges are seated properly.

6. Reset the Printing System

• Resetting can resolve configuration issues:
  1. Go to System Settings > Printers & Scanners.
  2. Right-click anywhere in the printer list and choose Reset printing system.
  3. Re-add the printer using the (+) button.

Refer to this document: HP DeskJet 4252e All-in-One Printer User manaul

HP printer setup (Mac built-in driver)
HP DeskJet 2800, 4200, 4900 Printers - Color or black ink not printing, other print quality issues
 

I hope this helps. 

Take care and have a good day.

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