Smart Tank 6000

[LB1316]

My printer keeps flashing orange light with E4. I've taken it apart no paper stuck anywhere.  I've cleaned everything.  Tried to reset . Nothing works. How can I get the light to go off. I've unplugged  it. Nothing.

[VikramTheGreat]

Hi @LB1316,

Welcome to the HP Support Community.
 

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

I understand how frustrating this is, especially after trying everything and still seeing the flashing orange light with E4 on your HP Smart Tank 6000. The E4 error on HP Smart Tank printers typically means a paper jam or a carriage jam, even if you don’t see any paper stuck. It can also indicate a sensor or carriage alignment issue.

What E4 Means

• Paper jam detected (including tiny scraps in the rollers).
• Carriage jam (printhead carrier stuck or sensor misread).
• Sometimes triggered by encoder strip contamination or mechanical obstruction.

Step 1: Power Reset

1. With the printer ON, unplug the power cord from the back and the wall.
2. Wait 60 seconds.
3. Plug it back directly into a wall outlet (avoid surge protectors).
4. Turn the printer back on.

Step 2: Check Carriage Movement

• Open the ink access door.
• Does the printhead carriage move freely to the center? 
  • If not, gently move it side to side (with power off).
• Remove any packing material or debris.

Step 3: Inspect Encoder Strip

• The thin transparent strip behind the carriage can get dirty.
• Clean gently with a lint-free cloth dampened with distilled water.

Step 4: Check Paper Path

• Remove the rear access door and inspect the rollers.
• Use a flashlight to check for tiny scraps of paper.

Step 5: Reset Printer

• Press and hold Cancel + Wireless buttons for 5 seconds to reset.

👉 HP Official Guide for E4 Error: HP Smart Tank 6000, 7000, 7300, 7600 Printers - Blinking lights and error codes | HP® Support

I hope this helps.

Take care and have an amazing day!
 

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Regards,

VikramTheGreat