Printer showing "!" when lid open and printhead moved to right.

[Smile760]

First, I was trying to align my printhead. I printed the alignment page and scanned it, but it did not solve the problem. Then I read in manual to open the lid take out the printheads and then reinsert them properly. But when I opened the lid, it shows "!" and the power on button starts to blink, also the printhead moves to far right and does not stay in center.

What can I do? Cannot find anything online about it. Otherwise, it works fine scans, copies, prints. But I really want to diagnose and treat the issue.

[Sneha_01]

Hi @Smile760,

Welcome to HP Support Community.

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

It sounds like your HP printer is experiencing an issue related to the printhead alignment or carriage movement. The "!" symbol and the blinking power button typically indicate a problem that needs to be addressed. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help diagnose and resolve the issue:

1. Power Cycle the Printer

1.1. Restart the Printer

Turn Off the Printer:

• Press the power button to turn off the printer.

Unplug the Printer:

• Disconnect the power cord from the printer and wait for about 60 seconds.

Reconnect and Power On:

• Plug the power cord back in and turn the printer on. Check if the issue persists.

2. Check Printhead and Carriage

2.1. Inspect the Printhead

Open the Printer Lid:

• Open the lid to access the printhead and cartridges.

Remove the Printhead:

• Carefully remove the printhead by following the HP instructions. Make sure to place it on a clean, lint-free cloth.

Inspect for Obstructions:

• Check for any obstructions or debris in the printhead area. Clean any visible dust or debris using a dry, lint-free cloth.

Reinstall the Printhead:

• Reinsert the printhead carefully into its slot and ensure it is securely in place.

2.2. Check the Carriage Path

Inspect the Carriage Movement:

• Ensure that the carriage (the part that holds the printhead) can move freely along its track. If it’s stuck or misaligned, gently adjust it back to the center position if possible.

Check for Obstructions:

• Look for any obstructions or foreign objects in the carriage path and remove them if present.

3. Check Printer Cartridge

3.1. Verify Cartridge Installation

1. Remove and Reinstall Cartridges:
   • Remove the cartridges from the printhead. Inspect them for any damage or leakage.
   • Reinsert the cartridges securely into their respective slots.

4. Perform a Printer Reset

4.1. Reset Printer Settings

Access Printer Settings:

• Depending on your printer model, you may need to navigate through the printer’s menu to perform a reset. Look for options like Restore Defaults or Factory Reset in the settings menu.

Follow Instructions:

• Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the reset process.

5. Check for Firmware Updates

5.1. Update Firmware

Visit the HP Support Website:

• Go to the HP Support website and search for your printer model.

Download and Install Firmware Update:

• If there is a firmware update available, download it and follow the instructions to install it.

I hope this helps.

Take care and have a good day.

Please mark this post as “Accepted Solution” if the issue is resolved and if you feel this reply was helpful click “Yes”.

Rachel571

HP Support

[Smile760]

I have restarted printer, reset it, and updated to latest firmware. As far as cartridge is concerned it can not be accessed because it stays at far right when i open the lid. It needs to move to the middle to access it. One solution i have seen online is to unplug printer when it is starting, as the printhead comes to middle. But i don't want to do that.

Considering to take it back to service center or the seller. Will update if they diagnose anything.