Symptoms
- Colors look noticeably different from what's on screen
- One color (like magenta or cyan) is missing or too strong
- Photos have an overall color cast, like too much green or blue
- Black and white text prints fine, only color images are affected
Likely causes
- CommonOne color cartridge low or emptyA single depleted color can throw off the overall color balance even if others are full.
- CommonClogged nozzles for one specific colorA blocked nozzle for just one ink color causes a visible color shift or missing tones.
- PossibleColor management or profile settings mismatchedPrint settings using the wrong color profile can shift colors from what's displayed on screen.
- PossibleNon-genuine or refilled cartridge with inconsistent inkThird-party inks don't always match the color calibration of genuine cartridges.
What to do
- Run a nozzle check pattern from the printer's utility software to see exactly which color(s) are weak or missing.
- Replace any color cartridge that's low, empty, or showing gaps in the nozzle check.
- Run the built-in print head cleaning cycle once or twice if a nozzle check shows streaking or gaps rather than a fully empty cartridge.
- In your app's print dialog, check the color management settings and try switching between 'Managed by printer' and 'Managed by application' to see which produces better results.
- If using third-party ink, try a genuine cartridge for the affected color to compare results.
- Recalibrate color settings using the manufacturer's utility software if your printer/driver includes a calibration tool.
Tools and parts
- None
Replacement color ink cartridgeSearch: “[printer model] color ink cartridge”
When to call a pro
If a nozzle check shows all colors printing but the output still looks wrong after cleaning and cartridge replacement, a technician can check for a color sensor or print head calibration issue.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.