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How to fix Missing or Failed Printhead Error [HP Printers]
Make sure the printhead is properly seated
7 min. read
Updated onMarch 3, 2024
updated onMarch 3, 2024
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Key notes
TheMissing or failed printheaderror arises for someHPprinters. That error message appears on the printer’s control panel display and statesThe printhead appears to be missing, not detected, or incorrectly installed.
The error is generally seen with old printers, but several users reported seeing the message with their printer after only a few months of use.
So, why does this happen, and what triggers it? Don’t worry; we’ll try to cover everything in the solutions below.
What causes printhead failure?
Printhead failures are generally due to physical issues; most commonly, it’s the ink nozzle’s clogging. If the printer is not used regularly, the ink might dry out and block the nozzle.
Also, excessive usage of the printer can lead to damage to the printhead. Every time you print a sheet of paper, the physical contact between it and the printhead nozzle will cause minor wear and tear, affecting its functioning in the long run.
Besides, the printhead may be loose, or the cartridges incorrectly identified, and both these would seem like a missing or failed printhead. So, make sure to check for these as well.
And it’s a known fact that the printhead will eventually fail. While some may print as many as 15,000 sheets before failure, others might stop working at 2000-3000 prints. It all depends on maintenance and the usage frequency.
How can I fix the Missing or failed printhead error?
1. Reset the HP Printer
This should fix the HPMissing or failed printheaderror. In case it doesn’t work, head to the following method.
2. Reseat the HP Printer’s Printhead
3. Clean the Ink Cartridge
Cleaning ink cartridges might also resolve the Missing or failed printhead error for some users.
To do that, remove the ink cartridges from the printhead. Next, gently wipe the cartridges’ copper contacts with a lint-free cloth and distilled water. Then dry the cartridges with a dry cloth before inserting them back into the printer.
Check if you still see Printhead: missing, failed, or incompatible. If the problem persists, try the following method.
4. Update Printer Firmware
5. Replace Non-HP Cartridges
If none of the above resolutions work, users might need to replace their cartridges. That’s especially the case if they’re usingnon-HP cartridges. Make sure the replacement is a genuineHPcartridge pack.
Those are some fixes that might resolve the Missing or failed printhead error. However, some users might need replacement printheads.
Users with printheads covered with warranties can get printhead assembly kits fromHP,with which they can install both new printheads and cartridges.
Here are some of the known printhead issues shared by users:
Are printheads expensive?
Printheads are indeed an expensive component, and that’s the reason many users replace the printers instead of purchasing a new printhead when this problem occurs.
Looking at the available options, even the economical printheads cost $100 or more. A significant reason is that manufacturers initially sell the printer at a low cost, and the consumables and components are priced higher to make a profit.
How do you know if your printhead is damaged?
The signs are pretty evident even if you don’t receive theMissing or failed printheaderror. The print quality is affected depending on the severity of the damage to the printhead, and the printer won’t work in case of absolute failure.
Also, if the prints are hazy, the colors are missing or distorted, or there are stripes on the sheet, it all points to damage to the printhead.
Is it worth replacing the printhead?
There is no absolute answer to this question, but it depends on several factors. For instance, how long the printer has been in use, whether it’s still under warranty, and the cost of replacing the printhead.
Say the printer is a few years old and is well past the warranty period; it only makes sense to replace the printer instead of the printhead. Thelatest printershave several advanced features and offer a low CPP.
If the printer is still in the warranty period or is just out of it, it only makes sense to replace the printhead since it would be more economical as the printer still has a few years left.
Now that you have a basic understanding of printheads and their issues, here are some resolutions for theMissing or failed printheaderror on theHPOfficeJet printer.
That’s all there’s to theMissing or failed printheaderror encountered by users. Though the problem is generally faced by HP printers, other printers, like the ones manufactured by Epson, are prone to it.
In case you have an HP 6830 printer, ourFixing missing or failed printhead errors on your HP 6830 Printerguide is a great source of information.
Also, find thebest printers with cheap inkto keep the printing cost low.
If you have any other queries or know of a solution that’s not listed here, drop a comment below.
More about the topics:HP printer,Printer Errors
Matthew Adams
Windows Hardware Expert
Matthew is a freelancer who has produced a variety of articles on various topics related to technology. His main focus is the Windows OS and all the things surrounding it.
He is passionate about the tech world, always staying up-to-date with the latest and greatest. With an analytical view, he likes problem-solving, focusing on errors and their causes.
In his free time, he likes to read and write about history and tries to always develop new skills.
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Matthew Adams
Windows Hardware Expert
He is passionate about everything surrounding Microsoft’s OS, focusing on troubleshooting guides & tips for everyday problems.
