HP Printer Error Ink System Failure [How to Fix]

In this article, we will guide you on how to fix the HP printer error ink system failure.

The HP printer error ink system has failed issue can be fixed using the solutions below. Find out your cartridge type below to fix the issue.

Cartridge Group A (935, 934, 902 – 920, 862, 655, 364, 178)

If your HP printer uses any of the listed ink cartridges above, do the following to fix the HP printer error message “ink system failure”:

1. Reset your HP Printer

Resetting your HP printer can resolve this issue. To do this, turn your HP printer on, and then unplug the printer’s power cable from the printer. After that, unplug the cable from the wall outlet. Wait for some minutes before reconnecting the cable. Then turn on your printer after you have plugged the power cable.

2. Clean the Vents of Your Ink Cartridge

The cartridge’s label after removal might have left glue residue on the vent of your cartridge which could lead to the error. Hence, you need to clean the vents.

How to Clean Cartridge Vents

Do the following to clean the vents of your ink cartridge:

Step 1: Open the cartridge access lid or door.

Step 2: Wait a bit and allow the carriage to come to a stop.

Step 3: Push in the cartridge’s tab and then yank out the ink cartridge from its slot.

Ensure that the cartridge is not left outside your printer for more than 30 minutes. 

Step 4: If the orange-colored pull-tab is still attached to the cartridge, then you have to remove it.

Step 5: Clean any excessive adhesive or debris you find in the vent with the aid of a paper clip or pin.

The vent is on the upper part of the ink cartridge.

Step 6: Reinstall the ink cartridge into the printer; ensure it is in its right slot. Also, press it down and make sure it is firm.

Step 7: Do these steps for the other ink cartridges.

3. Replace All the Cartridges

Another solution to this HP printer error problem with the printer or ink system is to replace all the cartridges completely. Hence, you need to purchase genuine-HP cartridges and insert them into your printer.

4. Replace the Printhead if Possible

Not all printheads of HP printers are replaceable; hence, you need to confirm if yours is replicable. If you find a latch on your ink cartridge, then it means the printhead can be replaced. Therefore, get the replacement printhead and install it into your HP printer.

If the printhead cannot be replaced, then you should contact HP Customer support to fix an appointment for either a repair or replacement of your printer.

5. Service your Printer

If the above doesn’t resolve the error, then you should contact HP to service your printer.

Cartridge Group B (962 – 969, 951 – 959, 950, 933, 932) – HP Printer Error Ink System Failure

If your HP printer uses any of the listed ink cartridges above, do the following to fix HP printer error message “ink system failure”:

1. Reset your HP Printer

Follow the instructions we shared above to reset your HP printer.

2. Take Out and Reinstall the Cartridges

This action is to ensure that the ink cartridges are properly seated.

How to take out and Reinstall Cartridges

To take out and reinstall cartridges, do the following:

Step 1: Turn your HP printer on.

Step 2: Open the cartridge’s access lid or door.

Step 3: Wait for the carriage to become idle before proceeding.

Step 4: To remove the cartridge, simply push it.

Step 5: Reinsert the cartridge back into its rightful slot by pushing it on. Ensure that it is firmly in place.

Step 6: Do the above steps for other cartridges.

Step 7: Shut the cartridge’s access lid or door.

3. Replace All the Cartridges

You can fix this error by replacing all the cartridges completely. Hence, you need to purchase genuine-HP cartridges and insert them into your printer.

4. Replace the Printhead if Possible

If the printhead is replaceable, replace it with a new one. If it can’t be replaced, contact HP Customer support to fix an appointment for either a repair or replacement of your printer.

Read this: HP Printer Errors and Solutions [Detailed] to learn how to solve other HP printer errors.

Cartridge Group C (801, 363, 17, 02)

If your HP printer uses any of the listed ink cartridges above, do the following to fix HP printer error message “ink system failure”:

1. Reset your HP Printer

Follow the instructions we shared above to reset your HP printer.

2. Service your Printer

If the above doesn’t resolve the error, then you should contact HP to service your printer.