-
×InformationNeed Windows 11 help?Check documents on compatibility, FAQs, upgrade information and available fixes.
Windows 11 Support Center. -
-
×InformationNeed Windows 11 help?Check documents on compatibility, FAQs, upgrade information and available fixes.
Windows 11 Support Center. -
- HP Community
- Printers
- Printing Errors or Lights & Stuck Print Jobs
- Please inquire and advice

Create an account on the HP Community to personalize your profile and ask a question
01-15-2025 09:36 AM
Document Feeder says paper jam but cannot find any jam
Solved! Go to Solution.
Accepted Solutions
01-16-2025 10:01 AM
Hi @Vacationbill,
Welcome to HP Support Community.
Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you.
When the document feeder on your HP OfficeJet Pro 6978 shows a paper jam but there is no visible paper, it often indicates an issue with sensors, rollers, or debris. Here's how to troubleshoot.
Check for Actual Paper Jams
- Open the document feeder cover and inspect the path carefully.
- Look for tiny scraps of paper, dust, or debris that might be stuck in the rollers or feed path.
- Use a flashlight to inspect hidden areas.
Clean the Rollers
- Turn off the printer and disconnect it from power.
- Open the document feeder cover and locate the rollers.
- Use a lint-free cloth slightly dampened with distilled water to clean the rollers and any accessible areas.
- Rotate the rollers manually to clean their entire surface.
Reset the Printer
- Turn off the printer and unplug it for 2-3 minutes.
- Plug it back in and turn it on. A reset can sometimes clear false error messages.
Inspect the Sensor
- There are sensors in the document feeder that detect paper. Dust or dirt on these sensors can cause false paper jam errors.
- Clean the sensors gently with a dry, soft cloth or compressed air.
Test with a Different Stack
- Load a clean stack of paper into the document feeder. Ensure the paper is aligned and not bent, wrinkled, or stuck together.
- Try scanning or copying a document to see if the error persists.
Update Firmware
- Outdated firmware can cause miscommunications between the printer and its components.
- Visit the HP support website to check for firmware updates for your printer model.
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
HP Support Community Moderator
01-16-2025 10:01 AM
Hi @Vacationbill,
Welcome to HP Support Community.
Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you.
When the document feeder on your HP OfficeJet Pro 6978 shows a paper jam but there is no visible paper, it often indicates an issue with sensors, rollers, or debris. Here's how to troubleshoot.
Check for Actual Paper Jams
- Open the document feeder cover and inspect the path carefully.
- Look for tiny scraps of paper, dust, or debris that might be stuck in the rollers or feed path.
- Use a flashlight to inspect hidden areas.
Clean the Rollers
- Turn off the printer and disconnect it from power.
- Open the document feeder cover and locate the rollers.
- Use a lint-free cloth slightly dampened with distilled water to clean the rollers and any accessible areas.
- Rotate the rollers manually to clean their entire surface.
Reset the Printer
- Turn off the printer and unplug it for 2-3 minutes.
- Plug it back in and turn it on. A reset can sometimes clear false error messages.
Inspect the Sensor
- There are sensors in the document feeder that detect paper. Dust or dirt on these sensors can cause false paper jam errors.
- Clean the sensors gently with a dry, soft cloth or compressed air.
Test with a Different Stack
- Load a clean stack of paper into the document feeder. Ensure the paper is aligned and not bent, wrinkled, or stuck together.
- Try scanning or copying a document to see if the error persists.
Update Firmware
- Outdated firmware can cause miscommunications between the printer and its components.
- Visit the HP support website to check for firmware updates for your printer model.
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
HP Support Community Moderator