How to Fix HP OfficeJet Pro 9019 Ink System Failure Error

Question

A customer reported that they managed to resolve the issue of their HP OfficeJet Pro 9019 printer being stuck in the initializing stage. However, they continue to face a problem with the yellow cartridge. They have tried three different HP cartridges and one from a different supplier, but the issue persists. The printer performs its maintenance routine and then returns the same error message. They have also cleaned the entire printhead, contacts, and tried the wiggling method recommended on the HP support pages. The customer inquires whether it would be safe to swap the printhead from an HP OfficeJet Pro 9015e (which is part of the HP Instant Ink Program) into the 9019 to diagnose whether a new printhead is required.

Answer

Common Causes of Yellow Cartridge Errors

The symptoms you described typically indicate an issue known as HP Ink System Failure. This problem usually arises not from the cartridges themselves but from other factors such as:

• Air bubbles or blockages in the ink supply tubes, specifically affecting the yellow channel.

• Worn-out ink system sensors or clogged printhead filters.

• Faulty or degraded printhead electronics.

• Authentication issues related to HP’s Instant Ink system.

If the yellow cartridge is known to be functional after multiple replacements, the problem likely lies within the yellow ink channel of the printhead or a firmware issue related to cartridge usage history.

Is It Safe to Swap Printheads?

We strongly advise not to swap the printhead from the 9015e to the 9019. The HP OfficeJet Pro 9015e, being part of the HP+ and Instant Ink Program, digitally locks its printhead to the device. Swapping it might:

• Trigger a printhead error or lockout on the 9019.

• Permanently disable the printhead, rendering it unusable in both printers.

• Violate HP’s Instant Ink terms and potentially brick the printhead.

Recommended Troubleshooting Steps

Here are some steps you can try before considering a printhead replacement:

1. Manual Printhead Cleaning

   • Use a syringe and soft tube to flush the yellow nozzle with warm distilled water.

   • Ensure that ink flows freely through the nozzle port, removing any air bubbles.

   • Let the printhead dry completely before reinstalling.

2. Purge Air from the Ink Tubes

   • Use the vacuum method to draw ink through the yellow port to eliminate air pockets.

3. Reset the Ink System

   • Power off the printer, unplug it, and hold the power button for 30 seconds.

   • Reinsert the cartridges sequentially, starting with the recognized ones (e.g., blue), followed by yellow.

   • Check for any signs of cartridge weight difference (light or dry indicating no ink feed).

When to Replace the Printhead

If the problem persists, consider purchasing a replacement printhead from a non-Instant Ink model to ensure compatibility. Avoid using printheads from any "e" series device.

Advanced Users: Firmware Downgrade

Some advanced users attempt to roll back the firmware to bypass HP’s cartridge checks. This approach carries risks and is not guaranteed to work with your printer model.

Important Note on HP Cartridge Locking

HP’s ink management may reject genuine cartridges if they were previously installed in another printer, even if briefly used.

Additional Information

Dealing with printer issues can be complex due to the hands-on nature of troubleshooting. We cannot offer remote support or repairs, but we do provide in-person diagnostic and repair services at our local facility (BCH Technologies Printer Repair Service). Due to high demand, please note that our services are first-come, first-served, and may take several weeks for a drop-off.

We also recommend checking out our YouTube channel for detailed video guides and repair tutorials. Use the search function on YouTube to find specific videos related to your issue.

Final Thoughts

We truly appreciate your continued support and engagement with BCH Technologies. Please keep us updated on your progress or if you need further assistance. We’re always here to help!

Update from Customer:

The solution worked perfectly, and I now have a fully functional printer again.

I performed a manual printhead cleaning by flushing the yellow nozzle and ink tank with warm water. After that, I used a vacuum cleaner and a paper towel placed in front of the printhead to help draw ink into the tank.

The printer showed no more error messages, and after printing a couple of pages with slightly faint yellow, everything returned to normal.