Print head does not return to central postion

[Ago1958]

Black stopped printing cleaned heads many times but still no black. Went to change the printer head but the carrage does not go to center when i open the top so cannot change head how do i get the carrage to return to the centre?

[Hawks_Eye]

Hi @Ago1958 

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

Thank you for explaining the issue. I know how frustrating it is when the black ink stops working and you're unable to access the printhead for replacement. 

Let's go through the steps to bring the printhead carriage to the center so you can replace it safely.

Step-by-Step to Move the Carriage to the Center

1. Power Reset the Printer

This can clear internal faults that may be stopping carriage movement.

Turn off the printer using the power button.

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

Wait 60 seconds.

Plug the power cord back in directly to the wall socket (not a surge protector).

Turn the printer back on.

Now, open the printer lid again and wait to see if the carriage moves to the center.

2. Open Access Door While Printer Is On and Idle

Make sure the printer is powered on and idle (not printing or initializing).

Gently open the top access door.

Wait a few seconds—on most HP printers, this will automatically move the carriage to the center.

If the carriage still doesn’t move, proceed to the next step.

3. Manually Move the Carriage (Only If Printer Is Off)

If the carriage is stuck and not moving automatically:

Turn off the printer and unplug it.

Open the access door.

Gently try to slide the carriage to the center using two fingers—only apply light pressure.

It should move freely. If it resists, do not force it.

This allows you to access and remove cartridges or inspect for any paper jams or obstructions underneath.

4. Check for Obstructions

Use a flashlight to inspect for any small bits of paper, dried ink, or debris under the carriage path.

Remove anything you find carefully.

5. Use Printer Control Panel Menu (if applicable)

Some printers have a menu option to change cartridges:

From the touchscreen or control panel, go to Settings > Tools > Replace Ink Cartridges or similar.

This command may prompt the carriage to move to the center.

If none of the above steps work and the carriage remains locked or hidden:

There may be a mechanical jam or firmware fault preventing movement.

Let me know your printer model if you'd like tailored steps or help walking through a firmware update. You're doing the right thing by being cautious—let's get it moving safely.

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