If you are having problems with your printer not printing in yellow don’t panic just yet. There are a few things that can cause your printer to stop printing in yellow. So in this guide, I have put together a list of different methods that you can use to fix the problem.
Fixing a printer that won’t print in yellow involves several troubleshooting steps. Use the below methods to help you resolve this issue.
Table Of Contents
How To Fix Printer Won’t Print In Yellow
1. Check Ink or Toner Levels
Inkjet Printers: Access your printer’s software on your computer to check ink levels. Ensure the yellow ink cartridge is not empty.
Laser Printers: Check the toner levels. Laser printers use toner instead of ink, and the process is similar for checking levels.
2. Inspect Cartridges
Remove and Inspect: Carefully remove the yellow ink or toner cartridge. Check for any protective tape or covers that might have been left on by mistake.
Clean Contacts: Use a soft, lint-free cloth to gently clean the cartridge contacts and the contacts inside the printer where the cartridge sits.
3. Run Cleaning Cycles
Use Printer Software: Most printers have a cleaning cycle feature. Access this through the printer’s on-device menu or through the printer software on your computer. Run the cleaning cycle a few times.
Manual Cleaning (for Inkjets): If the automatic cleaning doesn’t work, you might need to manually clean the print head. Refer to your printer’s manual for guidance, as this can vary by model.
4. Check Print Head (for Inkjet Printers)
Automatic Cleaning: Run the print head cleaning function from the printer’s menu or software.
Manual Cleaning: If the print head is still clogged, remove it (if your printer model allows) and clean it manually using distilled water or a print head cleaning solution. Dry it thoroughly before reinserting.
5. Update Printer Drivers
Check for Updates: Ensure your printer’s drivers are up-to-date. Visit the printer manufacturer’s website, find your model, and download the latest drivers.
6. Check the Printer’s Software Settings
Color Settings: Ensure the printer is set to print in color, not grayscale. This setting can be found in the printer preferences on your computer.
Paper Type: Make sure the correct paper type is selected. Incorrect settings can affect print quality.
7. Try a Different Application or Document
Different Source: Sometimes, the issue might be with the document or application. Try printing from a different application or print a different document to rule this out.
8. Replace Cartridges or Print Head
Replace Cartridges: If none of the above steps work, replace the yellow ink or toner cartridge with a new one.
Print Head: Consider replacing the print head if your printer allows it and if manual cleaning didn’t resolve the issue.
9. Contact Support
Manufacturer Support: If your printer still won’t print in yellow after all these steps, contact the manufacturer’s support. There might be a hardware issue that requires professional repair or replacement.
Tips
- Regular Use: Regularly using your printer can prevent ink from drying and clogging the print heads.
- Genuine Cartridges: Use genuine ink or toner cartridges recommended by the printer manufacturer to avoid compatibility issues.
Final Thoughts
By following the above steps, you should be able to diagnose and fix most issues related to a printer not printing in yellow. Remember, printer models vary, so refer to your printer’s manual for model-specific instructions.
