my hp officejet 3831 is getting carriage jam message that just wont clear?

[Cherk1888]

hi i am getting a couple of error messages Firstly it says device was not shut down properly Even though I have done it correctly ? But the error i cant clear and wont let me use my machine Says Carriage jam and gives you a list of things to do !!! I have tried Everything and all fixes i have found on line ?? all to no avail !! This is my final attempt to sort it As I may just have to bite the bullet and get a new one !! hopefully someone can help ???  or even provide me with details on a full reset as a last resort ?? heres hoping

[Sneha_01 · Accepted solution]

Hi @Cherk1888,

Welcome to HP Support Community.

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

It sounds frustrating to deal with those error messages on your HP OfficeJet 3831. Carriage jam issues can indeed be stubborn sometimes, but let's try a few more troubleshooting steps before considering a replacement or a full reset.

Check for Obstructions: Make sure there are no bits of paper or foreign objects obstructing the carriage's movement. Open the printer cover and inspect carefully.

Manually Move the Carriage: Turn off the printer and move the carriage manually along its path. It should move freely without obstruction or resistance. If it feels stuck, gently move it back and forth to dislodge any jammed paper or debris.

Reset the Printer: Sometimes a simple reset can clear out temporary issues. Turn off the printer, unplug it from the power source, wait for a couple of minutes, then plug it back in and turn it on.

Update Firmware: Ensure your printer's firmware is up to date. You can usually find firmware updates on the HP website or through the printer's menu settings.

Clean the Carriage Rail: Dust or debris on the carriage rail can sometimes cause carriage jam errors. Carefully clean the rail with a soft, lint-free cloth dampened with water.

Inspect the Encoder Strip: The encoder strip is a clear plastic strip located behind the carriage. Ensure it's clean and properly aligned. If it's dirty, gently clean it with a soft, lint-free cloth dampened with water.

I hope this helps.

Take care and have a good day.

Please mark this post as “Accepted Solution” if the issue is resolved and if you feel this reply was helpful click “Yes”.

Rachel571

HP Support