Nothing can be more frustrating than facing an HP 65 Cartridge Error, especially in the middle of an important print assignment. This error usually just stops your HP printer from detecting the ink cartridge and you may see messages like “Cartridge Problem”, “Low Ink”, or “Incompatible Cartridge.” The good news is that most HP 65 Cartridge Error problems can be fixed with a few simple steps. In the following guide, we’ll try to cover the potential reasons behind the HP 65 Cartridge Error, a clear step-by-step guide to fix it that will help you get your printer running again without a hitch.
Read: How to Fix HP Instant Ink Error Code 406
Understanding the HP 65 Cartridge Error
The HP 65 Cartridge Error usually happens when good communication is not established between the HP printer and the HP 65 ink cartridge. This cartridge is also used in HP DeskJet, Envy, and AMP series printers. The faulty hardware, the flash drive not installed correctly on Windows, or software errors could be reasons for that. Knowing what’s causing it is the first step to correcting it.
Common Causes of HP 65 Cartridge Error
Before we discuss the solutions, here are the usual culprits of the HP 65 Cartridge Error:
- Incorrect Cartridge Installation: If the cartridge has not been placed properly, the printer won’t be able to identify it.
- Dirty Contacts: If the chips on the cartridge or contacts on the printer are dirty, toner or even residual ink can clog them making communication difficult.
- Firmware Updates: HP updates the firmware, which blocks the chips on non-HP ink cartridges. If this has occurred, the cartridge will cease functioning.
- Faulty Cartridge: If the HP 65 cartridge is defective or damaged, it will not work.
- Out of Ink: If the ink in the cartridge is very low or it is empty, it can cause some problems.
At the same time, discovering the root causes listed above will reduce 80% of the HP 65 Cartridge Error.
How to Fix HP 65 Cartridge Error: Step-by-Step Guide
Here is an easy guide to troubleshooting the HP 65 Cartridge Error. Perform each of the following steps in sequence and then test the printer to determine if the issue is resolved.
Step 1: Check Cartridge Installation
Improperly seated cartridges are a common cause. So that your HP 65 cartridge is properly installed:
- Switch off your printer and unplug it for safety.
- Open the cartridge access door and then carefully take out the HP 65 cartridge.
- Look for any protective tape or packing material around the cartridge and take it off if any.
- Push the cartridge back in place until it snaps back into the slot.
- Close the access door, plug in the printer and power it on.
Test if the HP 65 Cartridge Error still happens with the printer. If it does return then continue on.
Step 2: Clean the cartridge and printer contacts
If any of the contacts on the cartridge or printer are dirty, they will not be able to read each other. To clean them:
- Turn the printer off and unplug it.
- Take the HP 65 cartridge out of the slot.
- Gently wipe with a clean, lint-free cloth lightly moistened with distilled, filtered or bottled water the copper-colored contacts on the cartridge and the contacts on the printer.
- Do not touch the ink nozzles and do not press them with too much force.
- Allow the contacts to dry out for a good 5-10 minutes.
- Put the cartridge back in and turn the printer back on.
Run a print job to see if the HP 65 Cartridge Error has been resolved.
Step 3: Reset the Printer
Temporary issues that prompt the HP 65 Cartridge Error may be resolved by doing a soft reset.
- Turn the printer on and wait for it to start.
- Turn off the printer if needed or unplug the power cord from the back of the product without turning it off.
- Disconnect the cord from the wall outlet for 60 seconds.
- Plug the power cord back into the printer and the wall outlet.
- Power on the printer and attempt to print.
If you are still experiencing the problem, move on to the next stage.
Step 4: Update or Roll Back Printer Firmware
Occasionally, HP printer firmware updates may interfere with HP 65 cartridges, particularly those that are refilled or third-party ink. To address this:
- Go to the HP Support website and type in your printer model.
- Fetch the most recent printer firmware download and install it.
- If the error arises from an update of the latest firmware, you can roll back to an earlier version (if there is one available) by following HP’s directions.
After an update or roll-back the HP 65 Cartridge Error should disappear once you use the printer.
Step 5: Replace the Cartridge
If still nothing comes out either the cartridge is bad or it is empty. Try the following:
- Replace the Product Description from the Manufacturer Count on the HP 65 Original Ink Cartridge to deliver high-quality results for every print. Do not use refilled or third-party cartridges as this might activate the error.
- If you have another printer with the cartridge, you can test it there to see if the cartridge is bad.
Print a test page to make sure the issue is resolved.
Tips to Prevent HP 65 Cartridge Error
To prevent the occurrence of HP 65 Cartridge Error in the future, try to follow these best practices:
- Use Original HP Cartridges: Take advantage of premium Non-HP ink Compatible with HP printers.
- Store Cartridges Correctly: Store the cartridges in a cool and dry place to avoid deterioration.
- Regular Maintenance: To avoid build-up, periodically clean your printer’s contacts.
- Keep Up to Date: Be sure to look out for firmware updates, but keep in mind when using third-party cartridges.
When to Contact HP Support
And if even after attempting the entire steps above, you still find the HP 65 Cartridge Error to be unsolved, it’s time for professional support. Reach HP Support Online or On The Customer Service Phone Line. Include your printer model, cartridge and specifics you’ve done to troubleshoot. They might have other solutions or they might suggest a service for your printer.
Conclusion
HP 65 Cartridge Error is enough to stunt your print jobs, but in most cases, it can easily be resolved with a little bit of that troubleshooting attitude. You can fix most of the errors by verifying cartridge installation, cleaning contacts, printer reset, firmware update, or replacing of cartridge. Following regular maintenance and using the correct HP cartridges can also help prevent these errors from recurring. Use this guide to bring your printer back to life and deal with the HP 65 Cartridge Error.