Printer error

[Mattbombero]

I got an error and my printer won’t do anything it says “there is a problem with the printer or ink system.”

[Sneha_01]

Hi @Mattbombero 

Welcome to HP Support Community.

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

The error message "There is a problem with the printer or ink system" is quite common with HP printers, and it often indicates an issue with the printer’s ink system, such as a problem with the ink cartridges, contacts, or the printer itself.

Here are a few troubleshooting steps you can try to resolve the issue:

1. Turn Off and Unplug the Printer

• Turn off the printer and unplug it from the power source.
• Wait for at least 30 seconds to allow the printer to reset completely.
• Plug the printer back in and turn it on to see if the error clears.

2. Check the Ink Cartridges

• Open the printer and check the ink cartridges to ensure they are properly installed.
• Remove and reinsert the ink cartridges. Make sure that they’re seated properly and locked into place.
• If you have ink cartridges from third-party brands, try replacing them with genuine HP ink cartridges to rule out compatibility issues.

3. Inspect the Ink Cartridge Contacts

• The error may be caused by dirty or damaged contacts. Turn off the printer and remove the ink cartridges.
• Use a clean, lint-free cloth or a cotton swab lightly dampened with water or rubbing alcohol to clean the metal contacts inside the printer and on the cartridges.
• Once clean, reinstall the cartridges and turn the printer back on.

4. Check for Paper Jams

• Inspect the printer for any paper jams or debris that could be causing the issue.
• Remove any paper stuck inside the printer carefully.
• Sometimes small pieces of paper can cause issues with the ink system, so be thorough.

5. Reset the Printer

• Sometimes, a reset can clear this type of error. Follow these steps:
  1. Turn off the printer and unplug it from the power source.
  2. Wait for 30 seconds to a minute.
  3. Plug the printer back in and turn it on again.
  4. If the error persists, try doing a hard reset (more detailed reset depending on your printer model).

I hope this helps.

Take care and have a good day.

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Rachel571

HP Support