-
×InformationNeed Windows 11 help?Check documents on compatibility, FAQs, upgrade information and available fixes.
Windows 11 Support Center. -
-
×InformationNeed Windows 11 help?Check documents on compatibility, FAQs, upgrade information and available fixes.
Windows 11 Support Center. -
- HP Community
- Printers
- Printing Errors or Lights & Stuck Print Jobs
- printer fault

Create an account on the HP Community to personalize your profile and ask a question
09-18-2024
10:47 AM
- last edited on
10-10-2024
06:31 AM
by
JessikaV
hi there, just replaced all my cartridges in my hp office jet pro 8600 and now showing general printer fault , contact hp. ive tried to reset but no joy can you help?
09-20-2024 07:31 AM
Hi @alfie111,
Welcome to the HP Support Community.
I'd be glad to help you!
If your HP OfficeJet Pro 8600 is displaying a General Printer Fault message after replacing the cartridges, and a reset hasn't resolved the issue, here are some troubleshooting steps you can follow:
1. Check Cartridge Installation
- Ensure Proper Installation: Double-check that the new cartridges are seated correctly in their slots. Remove each cartridge and reseat it to make sure they are properly aligned and clicked into place.
- Use Genuine HP Cartridges: Ensure the cartridges you installed are genuine HP cartridges. Non-HP or refilled cartridges can sometimes cause this error.
2. Power Cycle the Printer
- Perform a Hard Reset:
- Turn off the printer.
- Unplug the power cord from both the printer and the wall outlet.
- Wait 60 seconds, then plug it back in and power the printer on.
- Check if the error clears after the restart.
3. Check for Paper Jams or Obstructions
- Inspect for Jams: Open the printer and check all areas (cartridge area, paper tray, and rear access) for any paper jams or foreign objects that may be causing the error.
- Clean the Inside of the Printer: Use a lint-free cloth to clean any dust or debris around the cartridge and printhead areas.
4. Reset the Printer
- Reset to Factory Defaults:
- On the printer’s control panel, go to Settings or Tools.
- Look for the option to Restore Factory Defaults or Reset Printer.
- Confirm and allow the printer to reset. This will return the printer to its original factory settings.
5. Check for Firmware Updates
- Update Printer Firmware: Outdated firmware can cause communication errors with new cartridges.
- Visit the HP Support website to download the latest firmware for your OfficeJet Pro 8600.
Please find the remaining steps in the next post.
Please mark this post as “Accepted Solution” if the issue is resolved and if you feel this reply was helpful click “Yes”.
Nal_NR-Moderator
I am an HP Employee
09-20-2024 07:33 AM
Hi @alfie111 ,
Please find the remaining steps below.
6. Remove and Reinstall the Printhead
- Remove the Printhead:
Open the cartridge access door.
Remove all ink cartridges.
Lift the latch on the printhead assembly and carefully remove the printhead.
Clean the printhead contacts with a soft, lint-free cloth.
Reseat the printhead and secure the latch.
Reinsert the ink cartridges and close the printer.
- Restart the printer after reinstalling the printhead to see if the error clears.
7. Perform a Semi-Full Reset (if available)
Advanced Reset: Some HP printers have a semi-full reset option:
- Unplug the printer while it's powered on.
- Press and hold the # and 6 buttons on the printer’s keypad.
- While holding these buttons, plug the printer back in.
- Release the buttons after the printer turns on.
If none of the above steps resolve the issue, the printer may have a more serious hardware problem, especially if the error persists after a factory reset. In this case, contacting HP Phone Support for further assistance or repair options may be necessary.
Hope this helps! Keep me posted for further assistance
Please mark this post as “Accepted Solution” if the issue is resolved and if you feel this reply was helpful click “Yes”.
Nal_NR-Moderator
I am an HP Employee