Scans are always skewed. None of the solutions I have found do anything to resolve the issue!

[Grumpy_Bob]

I recently inherited a (pretty much) “as new”/barely used HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M283fdw and I find that scans I place on the platen ALWAYS come out skewed.

I gather this is a common issue with this and similar models of HP MFDs and that there doesn’t seem to be an adequate solution.

I have:

- Updated to the latest firmware – no effect

- Tried the “HP Print and Scan Doctor” – which, of course, turned out to be completely useless and ineffectual. No effect.

From Googling/searching for a solution I find that some people suggest:

- using the “auto-straighten” (or whatever it is called) in the “HP Scan” app. This, of course, also had no effect because “not straight” is not the same as “not skewed”. My scans aren’t “rotated”, they’re “twisted”! They’re parallelograms!

- cleaning/adjusting the rollers. I don’t see how this can be relevant because it is not the paper feed that is an issue. It happens when I place the original document on the platen and click “Scan”. The "image" (on the screen) turns out skewed. Therefore, the problem is with the IMAGING not the PRINTOUT.

TBH, if I had just spent c.£425 this MFD and found it had this problem (which HP have,apparently, singularly failed to resolve in the years since this MFD was released) I would have returned it and demanded a refund.  But, as I inherited it, this option isn’t available to me.

It seems extraordinary to me that HP can release a product with such an obvious design flaw, charge c.£425 for it, and then … wash their hands of the matter! This device, which cost a significant amount of money, DOESN’T DO WHAT IT IS SUPPOSED TO DO! It is like having a car that constantly pulls to the left and the manufacturer saying ”Yeah, sorry about that. But we’re not going to fix it. You’re stuck with it. Next time, … maybe don’t buy HP?”

[Sneha_01]

Hi @Grumpy_Bob,

Welcome to HP Support Community.

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

I'm sorry to hear about the issues you're experiencing with your HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M283fdw. Scanner skewing is indeed a frustrating problem, especially when it happens on a newer, high-end device. Here's a comprehensive approach to try and resolve the skewing issue:

Troubleshooting Steps

Ensure Proper Alignment on the Platen:

• Place the document carefully on the scanner glass (platen), aligning it with the alignment marks typically found on the edge of the glass.
• Ensure the document is flat and not placed at an angle.

Check the Scanner Glass and Platen for Debris:

• Clean the scanner glass and the white backing on the lid with a soft, lint-free cloth and glass cleaner. Any debris or smudges can cause distortion in the scanned image.

Calibrate the Scanner:

• Some HP printers have a scanner calibration feature. Check your printer's menu for a calibration option (usually found under settings or maintenance) and run the calibration process.

Adjust the Scan Settings:

• Use the HP Scan software on your computer.
• Look for any options related to auto-straightening or auto-cropping and ensure they are enabled.
• If available, adjust the scan resolution to see if higher resolutions reduce the skewing effect.

Manual Correction in Software:

• After scanning, use photo editing software to manually adjust and correct any skew. While this is not a fix for the hardware issue, it can help make scanned documents usable.

Advanced Solutions

Firmware Update:

• Make sure your printer’s firmware is up-to-date. Sometimes new firmware can address hardware issues like this.

Service and Repairs:

• If the issue persists, it might be a hardware defect. Given the consistent nature of the problem across similar models, it might require service by an HP technician. Since the printer is almost new, check if it is still under warranty or if HP can offer any repair services.

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

[Repairatrooper]

I am curious, does the scan bar look crooked? While the ADF on these units are less than stellar, we have not had major complaints from clients, but maybe they are just lucky. This type of defect from the glass would suggest a hardware issue is more likely than a firmware/software issue.

[Grumpy_Bob]

Thank you for responding but I have tried everything you suggest. The only thing that might help is for me to get an HP technician to carry out a repair. The printer/MFD is older than I initially thought (although it has had very little use). It was bought by my brother in October 2020. When I described it as “inherited” this was literally true – i.e. I inherited it from my brother when he died in January of this year.

[Grumpy_Bob]

Thank you for responding and apologies for the delay in this reply. As for whether or not the scan bar is crooked, it is hard for me to judge. If we assume that the bar should be square with the platen (etc.) when scanning then, yes, I’d say it does seem a bit crooked. It also seems a bit loose (but that may be the way it is supposed to be).

i would ssupply a photo or short video but that doesn't seem to be an option in this forum.

Under the circumstances, would I be able to take/send this MFD to an HP Service Centre for free repair? I have no doubt the fault has been present from the day it was shipped.