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- HP Community
- Printers
- Printing Errors or Lights & Stuck Print Jobs
- printhead missing/error

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07-27-2025 12:20 AM
my printer keeps on saying or showing printhead missing, I've already done the troubleshoot that HP sent and still printhead missing, I also been to an HP Authorized Service Center and said no error, but when I return on my house, the error happened again. the service centre is a long ride from home. it's frustrating and exhausting, it makes me think its a waste of money since i can't even use my printer.
07-29-2025 06:38 AM
@GlenZab, Welcome to HP Support Community.
Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you.
I understand how frustrating it must be to deal with a recurring “Printhead Missing” error, especially after visiting an HP Authorized Service Center. Let’s work together to try and resolve this from home.
Ensure Proper Printhead Installation
Sometimes, the printhead may not be seated correctly even if it appears to be.
- Power off the printer and unplug it.
- Open the ink access door.
- Gently remove and then reinsert the printhead. Make sure it clicks into place securely.
- Close the door, plug the printer back in, and power it on.
Clean the Electrical Contacts
Dust or ink residue on the printhead or carriage contacts can cause detection issues.
- Turn off the printer and unplug it.
- Remove the printhead.
- Use a lint-free cloth slightly dampened with distilled water to gently clean the copper-colored contacts on both the printhead and the carriage.
- Let everything dry for 5 minutes before reinserting.
Update Printer Firmware
Outdated firmware can sometimes cause hardware detection issues.
- Visit the HP Software and Driver Downloads page.
- Enter your printer model: HP Smart Tank 670.
- Download and install the latest firmware available.
Try a Different Power Outlet
Power fluctuations at home can sometimes cause intermittent hardware errors.
- Plug the printer directly into a wall outlet (avoid surge protectors or extension cords).
- Restart the printer and check if the error persists.
Reset the Printer
- With the printer on, unplug the power cord from the back.
- Wait 60 seconds.
- Plug it back in and power on the printer.
If these doesn't help, then this is a hardware issue.
I hope this helps.
Take care and have a good day.
Please click “Accepted Solution” if you feel my post solved your issue, it will help others find the solution. Select "Yes" on the bottom left to say “Thanks” for helping!
Max3Aj
HP Support