Remove and Re-Install Ink Cartridges

[SiberianHusky1]

My HP Inkjet 4650 did a print job today and it stopped on the last page and gave me the error of, remove and reinstall print cartridges.  I did that multiple times and even cleaned the cartridge sensors but it still comes back.  These are HP Cartridges. My first instinct is to buy 2 new cartridges but I am afraid that I may buy them and still not fix the problem.  I remember having a similar problem about 5 years ago and in the end they told me the printer had failed.

Any ideas please?

Thanks.

[Garp_senchau]

@SiberianHusky1, Welcome to HP Support Community,

Thank you for posting your query.

It sounds frustrating, especially after trying the steps like reinstalling and cleaning the cartridges. Below are a series of troubleshooting steps that can help narrow down the issue and hopefully resolve it without needing new cartridges, or a new printer.

1. Check the Ink Cartridges

• Confirm that the ink cartridges are correctly seated. Sometimes, the printer might report errors if they are slightly misaligned.
• Check if there are any visible damages or leaks on the cartridges.
• Cartridges have expiration dates. If they’re out of date, this can sometimes cause issues, especially with older or unused cartridges.
• If possible, check ink levels from your printer or HP software. Low ink can also cause unexpected errors.

2. Power Cycle the Printer

• Turn off your printer and unplug it from the power source.
• Wait for about 1-2 minutes before plugging it back in and turning it on.
• Try printing again to see if the error clears.

3. Clean the Cartridge Contacts (Again)

Since you’ve already cleaned the sensors, here’s a slightly different approach:

• Cartridge Contacts: With the printer off, remove the ink cartridges again. Use a lint-free cloth or cotton swab lightly dampened with water to gently clean the metal contacts on the cartridges and the corresponding contacts inside the printer.
• Avoid Using Alcohol: Avoid using alcohol as it can sometimes cause issues with ink adhesion.

4. Check for Paper Jams

Sometimes, an incomplete print job due to a paper jam could trigger this error.

• Inspect for Jams: Open all printer compartments and inspect carefully for paper or debris.
• Ensure the paper feed is clear, and that no paper is obstructing the path.

[Garp_senchau]

5. Update Printer Drivers and Firmware

Printer firmware and driver updates can often fix underlying issues:

• Go to the HP support website, look up your printer model, and check for any available firmware or software updates.
• Ensure you are using the latest printer drivers compatible with Windows 11. Download them from HP's official site.

6. Run the Printer Troubleshooter (Windows 11)

Windows 11 has a built-in printer troubleshooter that can detect and automatically fix issues.

• Go to Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other Troubleshooters.
• Click on "Run" under "Printer" and follow the on-screen instructions.

7. Reset the Printer to Factory Settings

If the above steps didn’t work, you might try resetting the printer to its factory settings.

• Look for the option on the printer’s control panel or refer to your printer's manual on how to reset it. Keep in mind this might clear your network settings, so you will need to reconnect it to Wi-Fi.

8. Test with New Ink Cartridges

If none of the previous step's work, and you're still encountering the error after reinstalling the current cartridges, consider testing with new cartridges. Sometimes, even new, seemingly functional cartridges can be defective or incompatible, so this is one of the final steps.

Tip: Try purchasing directly from HP or an authorized retailer to ensure authenticity. Third-party or refurbished cartridges can sometimes lead to compatibility issues.

I’d recommend trying the steps in the order above, especially focusing on cleaning the contacts carefully, updating the drivers, and checking for any potential firmware updates. New cartridges should be a last resort, though they could help confirm if the issue lies with the current ones. If all else fails, it might be a more significant issue with the printer hardware.

I hope these steps help resolve the issue

Please feel free to reply here if you have any questions or if you need further clarification on any of the steps. 

Take care and have a good day. 

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