officejet pro 8620 err "problem with printer or ink system" will not allow print

[pryzminc]

I cleaned the heads of this officejet pro 8620 and now get and err message, not err code, saying there is a problem with the printer or ink system. It also says to shut printer off and restart. Nothing is working.

The hp smart program won't diagnose.

[Hawks_Eye]

Hi @pryzminc 

Welcome to the HP Support Community! We're here to help you get back up and running.

Thanks for explaining the situation—I'm really sorry your HP Officejet Pro 8620 is showing the “problem with printer or ink system” error after cleaning the printheads. This message typically points to a critical ink delivery fault, often triggered by:

• Improperly seated or damaged cartridges
• Electrical contact issues after manual cleaning
• Internal ink system pressure or purge failure
• Firmware lock due to sensor misread

Let’s walk through a focused recovery process to help restore functionality:

 

Step-by-Step Fix: “Problem with Printer or Ink System” Error

1. Perform a Power Drain Reset

This clears residual charge and resets internal sensors.

• Turn off the printer.
• Disconnect the power cord from both the printer and wall outlet.
• Remove any USB or Ethernet cables.
• Wait 2–3 minutes.
• Press and hold the power button for 30 seconds.
• Reconnect the power cord directly to a wall outlet (no surge protector).
• Power on the printer and wait for it to fully initialize.

 

2. Inspect and Reseat Ink Cartridges

• Open the cartridge access door.
• Remove all cartridges.
• Inspect for:
  • Ink buildup or residue on copper contacts
  • Bent or missing contact pins
• Gently clean the cartridge contacts with a lint-free cloth slightly dampened with distilled water.
• Reinsert cartridges firmly until they click.

Use only genuine HP cartridges—third-party or refilled units can trigger this error.

 

3. Clean Printhead Contacts

If you manually cleaned the printhead, residue or moisture may have interfered with electrical signals.

• Power off the printer.
• Remove the printhead (if accessible).
• Gently clean the printer-side contacts with a dry lint-free cloth.
• Let the printhead air dry for 10 minutes before reinserting.

 

4. Update Firmware

• Visit: HP Officejet Pro 8620 Drivers & Firmware
• Download and install the latest firmware update.

Firmware updates can clear persistent ink system faults and recalibrate sensors.

 

5. Use HP’s Diagnose & Fix Tool (Windows)

Install or Open HP Smart

• Download from the Microsoft Store.
• Launch the app and sign in with your HP account if prompted.

 Access Diagnose & Fix

• Select your printer from the home screen.
• Click Printer Settings.
• Scroll to Diagnose & Fix.
• Click Start and let it run a full scan.

It will automatically detect and resolve common issues like scanning failures, connection drops, and driver conflicts.

 

If none of the above steps resolve the issue, the printhead may be damaged or the internal ink system may require servicing. In that case:

• Contact HP Support for a printhead replacement or service request.
• If out of warranty, consider replacing the printhead manually (HP part CN642A).

Let me know what happens after the power drain and reseating steps—I’ll guide you further. You’ve done everything right by documenting the issue clearly—I’ll stay with you until it’s resolved.

If my response helped, please mark it as an Accepted Solution! ✅ It helps others and spreads support. 💙 Also, tapping "Yes" on "Was this reply helpful?" makes a big difference! Thanks! 😊

Take care, and have an amazing day!

Regards, 

Hawks_Eye