Why can't I scan following Ink system failure on C6180 All In One

[Fellwalker]

I haven't used my scanner for a couple of months, and now want to scan some documents.  The device gets used only rarely because I have a laser printer that I use for most printing.

When I turn the all-in-one on, it goes through its normal warm up then tells me there is an Ink System Failure (Error: 0xc18a001).  I have gone through the troubleshooting, with a full reset, but it returns to that issue.  The suggestion is that it needs servicing.

What I cannot understand is why a print error should prevent me from scanning. Please can someone explain how to get my scanner working?

If I try to launch the HP Solution Centre, it cannot even FIND my HP Photosmart C6100 Series.  If I follow the troubleshooting for that, it involves reinstalling the software, which I have done.  Even though it can see the all-in-one, it cannot install the device.

[Rainbow23]

Hi @Fellwalker,

Welcome to HP Forums, this is a great place to get support, find answers and tips.

Thank you for posting your query, I'll be more than glad to help you.

I understand that you are getting an ink system failure error message with the error code 0xc18a001 on your HP Photosmart C6180 All-in-One Printer.

This issue could occur if the nozzles of the printhead are clogged or the printhead is defective.

Let's go through a few steps to troubleshoot this issue.

And here's the step by step guide for you in the link: 'Ink System' Error Displays

As the error message blocks the printer from going to ready state, scanning also gets blocked.

If the issue persists, then you may need to contact HP phone support for further assistance at the link: www.hp.com/contacthp

You have a good day ahead.

[Fellwalker]

Thanks for trying to help. That is the page I had found and tried.

Sadly you've confirmed my fear. I'm afraid I think it is ridiculous that I cannot scan without the printer ink working. 

If that is the way all in ones work, I'll not be getting one again. 

[Rainbow23]

Hi @Fellwalker,

Thank you for your reply.

I understand that you wanted the printer to scan if it had an issue with printing.

This particular model will not scan if there is an error with printing.

But for the printer models that use only two cartridges tricolor and black will scan if you just replace the cartridges and also these printers work in single cartridge mode.

You may also contact HP Phone Support for further assistance at the link: www.hp.com/contacthp

You have a good day ahead.

[Fellwalker · Accepted solution]

Thankfully, you are completely wrong.

After taking the printer apart and cleaning the mess that was the print head, it still won't print.

BUT, the great news is that I kept fiddling with it, and have found that by pressing the X cancel button on the display, and accepting the warnings shown, it reverts to ready status.

It will not connect using wifi, but it will connect using the wired Ethernet.

I've been able to install the printer again, and can now scan.  That has saved me from having to buy a new scanner.

[Rainbow23]

Hi @Fellwalker,

I see that the printer started to scan after you canceled the error and accepted the warnings.

I also appreciate your time and patience.

Feel free to ask your queries as this forum has some of the best people in the world available and ready to help.

You have a good day ahead.