Print system failure error 0x6100004a

[AnonBCN]

I have an Officejet 6970 with a stuck carriage. Printing is not possible, as when turning on I get a message that there is a paper jam, then a message that there is a 'failure with the printer or print system', 'error 0x6100004a'.

The printer has pretty much been a protracted failure since I bought it, and I've managed to fix a number of problems with it, but this one has me beat so far.

I have looked inside the printer and found that the carriage does does move left out of its docked position on the right, so when the printer does it startup maintenance, it gets stuck on the right side and I get the paper jammed then the other errors.

I have manually turned the gears on the inside of the printer and found I can turn them. Turning them lowers the capping mechanism which seals off the ink ports so the ink doesn't dry out. The cartridge can then move out and slide around freely.

However, when starting up, it slides back to its docked position, then gets stuck again. The printer does not seem to be able to slide the cap mechanism away and release the carriage.

Printer appears to be a couple of months out of warranty unfortunately.

What may be causing the above failure of the printer to lower the capping mechanism and release the carriage? I can disassemble if necessary due to the warranty having expired.

Turning printer off/update firmware/ clean spool wheels/check for paper jams have all been done already.

Thanks.

[asmita6658]

Hi @AnonBCN

Welcome to the HP Support Community. I'd be happy to help you with the "0x.." error. 

Let's try these steps -

1) Take out the cartridges.

2) Unplug the power cord from the printer & wall.

3) Wait for 30 seconds. 

4) Plug the power cord back into the printer and wall, ensure the printer is plugged into the wall & not to a surge protector.

5) Insert the cartridges back into the printer.

Update the printer's firmware - HP Printers - Updating or Upgrading Printer Firmware

If the issue still persists, I'd suggest you Contact HP in your region regarding the service options for your printer.

Have a great day! 

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