212 Troubleshooting ENWW
Table 24.  Image defects
Problem Cause Solution
Light print or fade  Wrong toner-density setting is in use. ● Through the software, adjust the toner density 
setting. Make sure EconoMode is off.
The print media does not meet printer specifications 
or is stored incorrectly.
● Print a few more pages to see if the problem 
corrects itself.
● Turn over the stack of media in the tray. Also try 
rotating the media 180 degrees.
● If the print media does not meet HP 
specifications, replace the media and advise the 
customer to use the recommended print media 
and to store it correctly.
The toner supply is low
● Temporarily extend the print cartridge life by 
redistributing the toner.
● If this does not improve the print quality, install a 
new print cartridge.
Toner specks The transfer roller is dirty.
● Clean the inside of the printer or use the 
printer’s cleaning page.
The print media does not meet printer specifications 
or is stored incorrectly.
● Print a few more pages to see if the problem 
corrects itself.
● Turn over the stack of media in the tray. Also try 
rotating the media 180 degrees.
● If the print media does not meet HP 
specifications, replace the media and advise the 
customer to use the recommended print media 
and to store it correctly.
The paper path is dirty.
● Clean the inside of the printer or use the 
printer’s cleaning page.
The fuser setting is incorrect for the paper type.
● At the control panel, change the fuser mode 
setting or choose another paper type in the 
printer driver.
Dropouts A single sheet of paper is defective.
● Try to reprint the job.
The moisture content of the paper is uneven or the 
paper has moist spots on it.
● Try paper from a different source.
The paper lot is bad.
● Try a different kind or brand of paper.
The print cartridge might be defective.
● Check for vertical repetitive defects.
● Replace the print cartridge.
The fuser setting is incorrect for the paper type.
● At the control panel, change the fuser mode 
setting or choose another paper type in the 
printer driver.
Vertical lines The print cartridge is defective.
● Replace the print cartridge.
The fuser entrance guide is dirty.
● Clean the guide.
The fuser is scratched.
● Replace the fuser.