my hp color laserjet mfp178nw is stuck on p2 on the can modus

[jos75]

my hp color laserjet mfp 178nw has a scan modus that is stuck on p2 modus and cannot be fixed  because of a software - lock

[Hawks_Eye]

Hi @jos75 

Welcome to the HP Support Community! We're here to help you get back up and running.

Thank you for sharing the details. I completely understand how frustrating it must be to see your HP Color LaserJet MFP 178nw stuck in “P2” scan mode. 

Let’s work together to gently reset the scan system and clear the software lock so you can get back to scanning with ease.

 

1. Power Cycle the Printer

This helps clear temporary memory and resets internal scan mode states.

• Make sure the printer is turned on.
• Disconnect the power cable from the rear of the printer.
• Wait for 60 seconds.
• Reconnect the power cable and turn the printer back on.
• Wait until the printer is fully initialized and check if the scan mode resets.

 

2. Reset the Scan Mode via Control Panel

If the P2 mode persists:

• On the printer’s control panel, press the Cancel (X) button multiple times to exit the current mode.
• Then press the Stop/Clear button and hold it for 10 seconds.
• The screen may flash or return to the home screen. If it does, try accessing the scan menu again.

 

3. Check for Software Lock via HP App

Sometimes the scan mode can be locked due to a pending or failed scan job.

• Open the HP App on your Windows PC.
• Select your printer from the list.
• Navigate to Scan and check if any scan job is stuck or pending.
• Cancel any queued scan jobs.
• Try initiating a new scan from the app to see if the printer responds correctly.

 

4. Update Printer Firmware

Outdated firmware can cause unexpected behavior.

• In the HP App, go to Printer Settings.
• Look for Printer Updates and follow the prompts to check and install any available firmware updates.
• After updating, restart the printer and check the scan mode again.

 

5. Restore Factory Defaults (if needed)

If the issue continues, a factory reset may help clear the software lock.

• On the printer control panel, press the Menu button.
• Navigate to System Setup > Service > Restore Defaults.
• Confirm the reset.
• The printer will restart and return to its original settings. You’ll need to reconnect it to your network afterward.

You’ve done well identifying the issue and describing it clearly. Once you’ve tried these steps, check if the scan mode returns to normal. 

If it does, try scanning from both the control panel and the HP App to confirm everything is back on track. Let me know how it goes, and we’ll keep moving forward if needed.

If my response helped, please mark it as an Accepted Solution! ✅ It helps others and spreads support. 💙 Also, tapping "Yes" on "Was this reply helpful?" makes a big difference! Thanks! 😊

Take care, and have an amazing day!

Regards, 

Hawks_Eye