y printer keeps showing the E3 error, and the colour inkjet light along with the paper light keeps f

[Mikesky1]

Hp deskjet 2720 printer keeps showing the E3 error, and the colour inkjet light along with the paper light keeps flashing. It keeps saying that the cartridge carriage is stalled. I have already done all the steps and it is still not working. But when I take one cartridge out and leave the other one in, the printer works fine. But when both of them are in it doesn’t work.

[VikramTheGreat]

Hi @Mikesky1,

Welcome to the HP Support Community.
 

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

Thanks for explaining the situation so clearly. The E3 error on your HP DeskJet 2720 means the cartridge carriage is stalled. The fact that the printer works with one cartridge inserted but not both strongly suggests a cartridge alignment or electrical contact issue, rather than a mechanical jam.

Steps to Fix E3 Error When Both Cartridges Are Installed

1. Power Reset

• Turn off the printer.
• Unplug the power cord from the printer and the wall outlet.
• Wait 60 seconds, then plug it back in and turn it on.

2. Remove and Inspect Both Cartridges

• Take out both cartridges.
• Check for: 
  • Protective tape is still on the electrical contacts (gold-colored area).
  • Ink or debris on the contacts.
• Clean contacts gently with a lint-free cloth slightly dampened with distilled water.
• Let them dry completely.

3. Inspect the Cartridge Carriage

• Look inside the printer for: 
  • Bits of paper or packing material.
  • Broken clips or obstructions.
• Make sure the carriage moves freely when you gently push it left and right.

4. Reinstall Cartridges One by One

• Insert the black cartridge first, close the door, and check.
• Then insert the color cartridge.
• If the error returns only when both are installed, one cartridge may be defective.

5. Update Firmware

• Open the HP Smart app on your device.
• Go to Printer Settings > Advanced Settings > Tools > Printer Updates.

6. Replace the Faulty Cartridge

If the printer works fine with one cartridge but fails with both, the second cartridge is likely electrically faulty. Replace it with a genuine HP cartridge.
 

HP Official Guide:
👉 HP Printers - Carriage jam or E3 error | HP® Support

I hope this helps.

Take care and have an amazing day!
 

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Regards,

VikramTheGreat