f380 will not allow re-installation of Print Cartridge

[kcroadrash]

After removing the ink cartridges the printer will not allow me to re-install the ink cartridges.  This has never happened before and I have always been able to insert ink cartridges when needed.  It seems like there is a release mechanism that is not engaging on ink cartridge carrier.  The cartridges simply  will not insert into the carrier.  I have already:

1.  Turn the machine off, unplugged it, waited 60+ seconds.

2.  Downloaded successfully the latest software successfully.

3.  Tried all HP suggested troubleshooting options.

Any ideas?

[Jay_G24]

Hi @kcroadrash

Welcome to the HP Support Community. I'd be happy to assist you with the  "cannot insert ink cartridges" issue. 

Follow the instructions on how to insert the ink cartridges-

Step one: Make sure the new cartridge is compatible with the product

Step two: Load plain paper

Make sure you have letter or A4, unused, plain white paper loaded in the input tray. The paper is required for the alignment process after a new cartridge is installed. Do not use colored paper or the alignment will fail.

Step three: Remove the old cartridge

Follow these steps to open the product and remove old cartridges.

1. Press the On button () to turn the product on, if it is not already on.

2. Open the carriage access door. The carriage that holds the cartridges moves to the center.

   Figure : Opening the carriage access door

   1. Carriage that holds the cartridges

3. When the carriage is idle and silent, lightly press down on a cartridge to release it, and then pull it out of its slot.

   • To replace the tri-color cartridge, remove the cartridge from the left slot.

   • To replace the black or photo cartridge, remove the cartridge from the right slot.

   Figure : Pressing down to remove cartridges

   1. Tri-color cartridge

   2. Black or photo cartridge

NOTE: 

If you are removing the black cartridge in order to install the photo cartridge, store the black cartridge in the cartridge protector or in a rigid, airtight, plastic container.

Step four: Install the new cartridge

1. Remove the new cartridge from its packaging and, being careful to touch only the black plastic, gently remove the plastic tape by using the pink pull tab.

   Figure : Removing the tape

   1. Copper-colored contacts (do not touch)

   2. Plastic tape with pink pull tab (must be removed before installing)

   3. Ink nozzles under tape (do not touch)

      CAUTION: 

   Do not touch the copper-colored contacts or ink nozzles. Touching these parts can result in clogs, ink failure, and bad electrical connections.

    

   

2. Slide the new cartridge forward into the empty slot. Then gently push on the upper part of the cartridge until it clicks into place.

   • If you are installing the tri-color cartridge, slide it into the left slot.

Also, try steps 1 and 2 in the document to check there is any obstruction.

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 “Kudos, Thumbs Up" on the bottom right to say “Thanks” for helping!

Have a great day! 

[kcroadrash]

Thanks J_G24, I have succeeded in getting the ink cartridges installed but now have another issue.  When I turn  on the printer I get an "E" , Cartridge Problem.  Although I replaced only the black cartridge both cartridges appear to have a problem and will not allow me to print. Shutting off the printer, unplugging the printer, and waiting 60+ seconds does not help.  Also tried uninstalling and reinstalling the cartridges.  

[Kumar0307 · Accepted solution]

@kcroadrash, thank you for the response.

Perform the steps mentioned under "The Print Cartridge light is blinking" in this document. 

Let me know how this goes.

[kcroadrash]

Thanks for the help - The problem was a 'new' defective cartridge.