Print jobs stuck in print queue

[HeatherClark13]

Product: HP SmartTank 5105

Whenever I try to send a print job to my printer, it gets stuck in the queue while saying 'Unknown Status'. I am also unable to delete these items from the print queue they simply stay there even after closing the computer. Any help here would be apprciated.

[VikramTheGreat]

Hi @HeatherClark13,

Welcome to the HP Support Community.
 

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

I understand your HP Smart Tank 5105 is showing "Unknown Status" and print jobs are stuck in the queue, unable to be deleted. Let’s fix this with a few steps:

Step-by-Step Fix for “Unknown Status” & Stuck Print Queue
 

1. Clear the Print Queue Manually

Sometimes the queue gets corrupted. Here's how to clear it:

On Windows:

1. Press Windows + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
2. Find Print Spooler, right-click it, and choose Stop.
3. Open File Explorer and go to:
   C:\Windows\System32\spool\PRINTERS
4. Delete all files in this folder.
5. Go back to services.msc, right-click Print Spooler, and choose Start.

2. Power Cycle the Printer

• Turn off the printer
• Unplug the power cord for 60 seconds
• Plug it back in and turn it on

This resets internal memory and may clear the error state.

3. Reinstall the Printer

1. Go to Control Panel > Devices and Printers
2. Right-click your printer > Remove device
3. Restart your PC
4. Reinstall using the HP Smart app or Official HP® Printer Drivers and Software Download | HP® Support

4. Run HP App

This free tool from HP can automatically fix queue and status issues.

🔗 HP Smart

I hope this helps.

Take care and have an amazing day!
 

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Regards,

VikramTheGreat