Paper tray is shown open when closed

[Paul1033]

HP ENVY 5010 Says paper tray is open when it is closed

[Hawks_Eye]

Hi @Paul1033 

Welcome to the HP Support Community! We're here to help you get back up and running.

Thank you for explaining the issue. I'm really sorry you're dealing with this—especially when everything looks physically fine, yet the printer keeps insisting the paper tray is open. That kind of error on the HP ENVY 5010 usually points to a sensor or alignment problem, and I’ll guide you through the right steps to fix it.

Step 1: Power Reset the Printer

This helps reset sensor errors that can get stuck during use.

Turn off the printer using the power button

Unplug the power cord from both the printer and the wall outlet

Wait 1–2 minutes

Plug the power cord back into a direct wall socket (avoid power strips)

Turn the printer back on

Now check if the error clears. If not, continue below.

Step 2: Reopen and Reseat the Paper Tray

Sometimes the tray isn’t fully seated even when it looks closed.

Pull the input paper tray all the way out

Check for any of the following:

Misaligned plastic edges

A bent tray arm or rail

Debris (like a paper clip or torn paper) near the tray sensor, located near the rear or side of the tray slot

Push the tray back in slowly and firmly until it clicks into place

Try gently wiggling the tray slightly left and right as you close it—this can help trigger the tray detection sensor properly.

Step 3: Check for Broken or Misaligned Tray Sensor

Inside the paper tray slot, there’s a mechanical switch or optical sensor that detects when the tray is closed.

Use a flashlight to inspect the tray slot area carefully

Look for:

A small white or black plastic tab (this is the sensor lever)

Anything that might be blocking or misaligning it

If it looks jammed or misaligned:

Carefully gently nudge it with a pen tip or cotton swab to see if it moves freely

Do not force it—if it's stuck or broken, it may require service

Step 4: Update Firmware Using HP Smart App (If Accessible)

If the printer is connected and responsive aside from this error:

Open the HP Smart app

Select your printer > Go to Settings > Printer Maintenance

Look for Firmware Update and install if available

Sometimes firmware fixes sensor misreadings that weren’t correctly resolved in earlier versions.

Step 5: Try Printing from Rear Tray (If Available)

Some models allow printing from the rear bypass slot. If you urgently need to print:

Check if the rear paper feed is supported and active

Load paper in the rear slot and try printing a test page

This won’t fix the tray error but may allow limited functionality until the issue is resolved.

You're handling this the right way, and with a bit of careful checking, there's a good chance this can be corrected without service. Let me know if you'd like help identifying the sensor location or submitting the support request.

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