Printhead missing or not detected error

[AZMoosie]

Printer is stuck on the error message 'Printhead missing or not detected error'.  I tried a procedure I found online to remove the printhead mechanism, check and reseat it 3 times.  That did not resolve the problem.  I saw a more extensive video which described how to remove a contact board on the printhead, clean the contacts, and then reinstall the board to the printhead.    Should I try that procedure, or get a replacement printhead?  Out of warranty, and an authorized service center is 30 miles away.

Thanks in advance.

[Nal_NR]

Hi @AZMoosie,

Welcome to the HP support community.

I understand that you are getting a Printhead missing error. I'd like to help!

I suggest you do a Hard Reset on the printer

(1) Turn the printer on, if it is not already on.

(2) Wait until the printer is idle and silent before you continue.

(3) With the printer turned on, disconnect the power cord from the rear of the printer.

(4) Unplug the power cord from the wall outlet.

(5) Wait at least 60 seconds.

(6) Plug the power cord back into the wall outlet.

NOTE: HP recommends connecting the printer power cord directly to the wall outlet.

(7) Reconnect the power cord to the rear of the printer.

(8) Turn on the printer, if it does not automatically turn on.

The printer might go through a warm-up period. The printer lights might flash, and the carriage might move.

Wait until the warm-up period finishes and your printer is idle and silent before you proceed.

Refer to this document here

Click on this document here for Missing or Failed Printhead.

Hope this helps. Keep me posted.

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

[AZMoosie]

Thank you for your suggestion.  I had to break down my office equipment early Wednesday morning for a painting project.  I will reassemble things and try your suggestion on Saturday.

[Nal_NR]

Hi @AZMoosie

Sure appreciate that. Keep me posted. Have a great weekend.

[AZMoosie]

Unfortunately, the procedure(s) did not resolve the printhead issue.  I have even checked for bend pins.  As far as I can tell, all the pins appear to be fine.  A new printhead for the 8620 is $160, plus tax (9.3% for me) and shipping.  But the unit itself has been lightly used and is in great shape, except for the obvious issue.  I'm thinking of bringing the printer into an HP authorized service center for evaluation.  Depending on what I'm told I will either proceed with a repair or take it back and recycle it.

Thanks for your suggestions, I'm bummed they did not work.  Such is life with moving parts!

[Nal_NR]

Hi @AZMoosie,

This situation will need some additional support from our internal teams in HP. For that to happen, we will give you additional instructions/information via Private Message.

Please check your inbox on the forums page for private message.

If the information I've provided was helpful, give us some reinforcement by clicking the Accepted Solution button, that'll help us and others see that we've got the answers!