Printer error. Instructions do not resolve.

[jjjlll]

Received this error: "There is a problem with the printer or ink system. Turn the printer off, then on. If the problem persists, contact HP." I turned off the printer multiple times and the error returns. It was working fine before a cartridge went empty. I tried to contact HP support but they said the printer is past warranty so had no other support options. 

[VikramTheGreat]

Hi @jjjlll,

Welcome to the HP Support Community.
 

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

I understand you are getting the error message “There is a problem with the printer or ink system” on your HP Officejet 6600 (H711a/H711g) typically indicates a cartridge, printhead, or firmware issue. Even though your printer is out of warranty, you can still try these troubleshooting steps to resolve it:

 1️. Restart the Printer (Hard Reset)

1. Turn the printer on.
2. While it's on, disconnect the power cord from the back of the printer.
3. Unplug the cord from the wall outlet.
4. Wait at least 60 seconds.
5. Plug the power cord back into the wall first, then into the printer.
6. Turn the printer back on.

This resets internal hardware logic and can often clear temporary ink system errors.

2️. Remove and Reinstall Ink Cartridges:

1. Open the cartridge access door.
2. Remove all cartridges one by one.
3. Check for ink leakage, tape, or dirty contacts.
4. Gently clean the gold electrical contacts on each cartridge using a lint-free cloth slightly moistened with distilled water or isopropyl alcohol.
5. Also, clean the corresponding printhead contacts inside the printer.
6. Let everything dry for 2–3 minutes.
7. Reinstall the cartridges firmly until they click into place.

3️. Check for Printhead Errors & Clean Printhead from Printer Menu:

1. On the printer's control panel, go to Settings > Tools > Clean Printhead.
2. Follow the on-screen prompts.
3. Perform up to 3 cleanings if needed.
    

4️. Reset Printer to Factory Defaults (if accessible)

1. Tap the Home icon.
2. Go to Setup > Printer Maintenance > Restore.
3. Choose Restore Factory Defaults.

⚠️ This will erase network settings and preferences, but may clear ink system faults.

I hope this helps.

Take care and have a good day.

Please click “Accepted Solution” if you feel my post solved your issue, as it will help others find the solution. Click the “Kudos/Thumbs Up" on the bottom right to say “Thanks” for helping!

VikramTheGreat

HP Support

[jjjlll]

Thanks for the information, @VikramTheGreat. I tried all of those that I could and then called HP support. The error could not be overcome so the printer landed in the trash can. 

[VikramTheGreat]

Hi @jjjlll,

Thank you for your response,

Is there anything else that I can help you with today?

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!

Take care and have a great day ahead!

VikramTheGreat

HP Support