Smart Tank 7302 Printhead Missing error

[corsjm]

Smart Tank 7302 Printhead Missing error.  I tried replacing the printhead and still get the error.  I have tried all the suggestions, cleaned the contacts, re-seated the printhead dozens of times, reset the printer numerous times.  The printer will not see the black printhead and the printer cannot be used.  Very frustrating.

[Kuroi_Kenshi]

Hi @corsjm,

Welcome to the HP Support Community!

Thanks for reaching out!

We're thrilled to have the opportunity to assist you and provide a solution.

I understand your Smart Tank 7302 is showing a “Printhead Missing” error even after replacing and reseating the printhead. Let’s go through a few checks to see what could be causing this.

1. Power Reset the Printer

• Keep the printer on, unplug the power cable from the back, wait 60 seconds.
• Plug it back in directly to the wall outlet (no extension or surge protector).
This clears false error states from the printhead detection system.

2. Double-Check Protective Tape on the New Printhead

• Remove the printhead and make sure the orange/blue protective tape is fully removed from the contacts and no small piece is left behind.
• Even a thin tab left over can trigger the “missing” error.

3. Clean the Printhead Contacts Again

• Use a clean, lint-free cloth very slightly dampened with distilled water.
• Gently wipe the gold contacts on the printhead and also the contacts inside the carriage.
• Let everything dry for 5 minutes before reinstalling.

4. Check for Obstructions in the Carriage

• Look inside the printhead slot — ensure no dried ink, debris, or paper dust is blocking the printhead from seating fully.
• Press down firmly until you hear a clear click when reinstalling the black printhead.

5. Update Printer Firmware (If you can access the menu)

• On the printer’s control panel, go to Setup → Printer Maintenance → Update the Printer.
• A firmware mismatch sometimes prevents a new printhead from being recognized.

6. Try Swapping Printhead Positions Temporarily

• Put the color printhead into the black slot and check if the printer detects any printhead there.
• If the color head is detected in the black slot, the issue is with the black printhead itself.
• If no printhead is detected even with the color printhead, the issue is with the carriage contacts, not the printhead.

I hope this helps.

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