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- HP Community
- Printers
- Printing Errors or Lights & Stuck Print Jobs
- Printer Doesn't Work After Cleaning Printheads Attempt

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08-03-2024 09:51 AM - edited 08-03-2024 09:52 AM
I turned on my printer, and ran the Clean Printheads option from the Tools menu. It made some noises, and the cleaning printheads message was on the screen for many minutes. Eventually it stopped and gave an error message:
"Printer Failure. There is a problem with the printer or ink system. Turn printer off, then on. If problem persists, contact HP." Now every time I turn on the printer the message comes up and I cannot do anything. I attempted to contact support but it requires a serial number, and when I type in the serial number it says "Please enter a valid serial number"
08-05-2024 09:16 AM
Hi @tim102289,
Welcome to The HP Support Community.
Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you.
I understand your HP Officejet Pro 8600 is encountering a serious issue after the printhead cleaning. Here are some steps to try to resolve the problem:
Basic Troubleshooting
Power Cycle:
- Turn off the printer and unplug it from the power source.
- Wait for about 60 seconds.
- Plug the printer back in and turn it on.
Check Ink Cartridges:
- Open the printer’s ink cartridge access door.
- Remove the ink cartridges and check for any visible damage or leaks.
- Reinstall the cartridges, ensuring they are securely in place.
Check Printhead:
- If your printer allows, remove the printhead.
- Inspect it for any visible damage or obstructions.
- Clean the electrical contacts on the printhead and inside the printer with a dry, lint-free cloth.
Reset the Printer:
- With the printer turned on, press and hold the “Power” button for 10-15 seconds to perform a hard reset.
Firmware Update: Update the firmware on an HP printer
- Visit the HP Support website and check if there are any firmware updates available for your printer model.
Service Mode:
- HP printers have a service mode that can be accessed to reset certain errors. This typically involves a combination of button presses; refer to your printer's service manual
Check for Hardware Issues:
- There may be a hardware failure with the printhead or another internal component.
Refer to this document: HP Officejet Pro 8600 Plus e-All-in-One Printer series - N911 User manual
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.
A_Gayathri
HP Support Community Administrator.