Printer won't print in color

Symptoms

• Color images print in black and white or grayscale
• One or more colors are missing from prints
• Color cartridges show low or empty
• Print settings recently changed

Likely causes

• CommonPrint settings set to grayscale or black-onlyAn accidentally changed setting can force black-and-white printing regardless of content.
• CommonOne or more color cartridges empty or lowMissing colors specifically point to a depleted cartridge for that color.
• CommonClogged nozzles for one or more colorsDried ink can block specific color nozzles while others work fine.
• PossibleColor cartridge not seated properlyAn improperly installed cartridge won't dispense ink even if it has plenty remaining.

What to do

1. Check your app's print dialog and printer properties for a 'Grayscale,' 'Black & White,' or 'Print in black only' setting, and turn it off.
2. Check ink levels for each individual color in the printer's app or display and replace any that are empty or very low.
3. Run a nozzle check pattern to identify exactly which color(s) are missing or weak.
4. Run the print head cleaning cycle if the nozzle check shows gaps rather than fully empty cartridges.
5. Remove and firmly reseat each color cartridge, checking that protective tape was fully removed if any are newly installed.
6. Print a fresh test page after each step to check whether color has returned.

Tools and parts

• None

When to call a pro

If nozzle checks show consistent gaps in a specific color even after cleaning and cartridge replacement, the print head may need professional service.

Safety