Common HP Printer Error Messages

Many HP printer error messages are common amongst the range,

both old and new. Many, such as 11 – Paper Out, may seem fairly
self-explanatory but could actually be the result of something else.
Here’s our quick guide to the most common HP printer error codes,
what the error codes mean and how to fix them.  
HP Error Code:
02 - Warming Up

Explanation:
This is commonly associated with printer cable or driver problems.

What to do:
Turn off the printer and remove the printer cable (USB or I/O cable), then turn it back on. If the printer
reports "Ready" then first update the driver, and if not resolved then the printer cable. If there is still an
error, there may be a hardware problem.

HP Error Code:
10 - Supplies Memory Error

Explanation:
Your printer has a problem with the toner cartridge chip, which it's unable to read. This is the electronic
information, or e-label, on the print cartridge.

What to do:
First of all try resetting the printer by turning it on and off. If this doesn't work remove and reinstall the
cartridge or replace it. If is still doesn't work then you may have a hardware fault.

HP Error Code:
11 - Paper Out

Explanation:
If your printer isn't out of paper, this probably means there's a problem with the paper tray or paper
sensor.

What to do:
Make sure your printer is on a completely flat surface. Check the paper trays for any damage and clean
away any toner build up. If not resolved, check the paper sensor or clean the opto-sensor.

HP Error Code:
12 - Open or No EP

Explanation:
If you printer does have toner cartridges installed correctly, this means either a cover is open or you may
have defective cooling fans or PS5 sensors.

What to do:
Check the all toners are installed correctly and that all covers are closed properly. If the problem persists
you may have a hardware problem.

HP Error Code:
13 - Paper Jam

Explanation:
Your printer has a paper jam. Paper jams can occur at four stages: pickup, printing, fusing and exit.
Modern HP printers will indicate where the jam has occurred. If using thick paper, check the HP paper
guide for your printer.

What to do:
Either follow the on screen guidance, if available, or methodically check for the paper jam in the customer
accessible areas of the printer. Don't attempt to use hard implements to remove paper at the risk of
damage to the printer and yourself. If the problem persists you may have a hardware failure.

HP Error Code:
14 - No EP Cartridge

Explanation:
Your printer either doesn't have a toner cartridge installed or doesn't recognise one that is.

What to do:
Removing and reinstalling the toner cartridge normally resolves the problem.

HP Error Code:
16 - Toner Low

Explanation:
This normally means that your toner cartridge is either low on toner or empty. However it may mean that
the remaining printer toner isn't distributed evenly.

What to do:
Try removing the toner cartridge and gently shaking it to evenly distribute the remaining toner. Once
depleted, replace the cartridge.

HP Error Code:
20 - Memory Overflow

Explanation:
Your print job exceeds the current memory capacity of the printer.

What to do:
You need to reduce the size of your print job. You can try reducing the DPI or unticking the collate option
in the printer driver. You can also try making the document or image more simple. Alternatively you can
install additional memory if available.

HP Error Code:
21 - Print Overrun

Explanation:
Your print job exceeds the current memory capacity of the printer.

What to do:
You need to reduce the size of your print job. You can try reducing the DPI or unticking the collate option
in the printer driver. You can also try making the document or image more simple. Alternatively you can
install additional memory of available.

HP Error Code:
22 - I/O Configuration

Explanation:
There's a communication problem between the printer and the computer.

What to do:
Where possible, try connecting to a different port on the computer. Try another cable and make sure the
computer is turned on and the cable is fully inserted at both ends. If this doesn't help there may be a
hardware issue.

HP Error Code:
24 - Job Memory Full

Explanation:
Too many print jobs have been send to the printer, or the job is too complex for the printer memory to
process.

What to do:
You need to reduce the size of your print job. You can try reducing the DPI or unticking the collate option
in the printer driver. You can also try making the document or image more simple. Alternatively you can
install additional memory if available.
HP Error Code:
25 - XXX Memory Full

Explanation:
Too many print jobs have been send to the printer, or job is too complex for the printer memory to
process.

What to do:
You need to reduce the size of your print job. You can try reducing the DPI or unticking the collate option
in the printer driver. You can also try making the document or image more simple. Alternatively you can
install additional memory if available.

HP Error Code:
30 - PS Error 16

Explanation:
This is commonly associated with PostScript firmware errors. It may also be triggered by PCL files being
sent while the print is in PS mode or a bad PostScript file.

What to do:
Reseat the PostScript SIMM or replace it. Try printing an alternative PostScript file to rule out a bad file.

HP Error Code:
30.1.1 - Disk Failure

Explanation:
Your printer's hard disk drive has crashed.

What to do:
You can normally resolve this by pressing the SELECT button. If it persists you may have a hardware
problem.

HP Error Code:
40 - Data Transfer Error

Explanation:
The connection between the computer and printer has been broken.

What to do:
Check/replace all cables as required. Ensure that any EIO boards are seated properly. If networked,
check to ensure the IP settings in the printer and driver haven't changed and match. You can sometimes
press SELECT to continue printing however print data may be lost; simply reprint the missing pages.

HP Error Code:
41 - Temporary Print Engine Error

Explanation:
The printer has experienced a temporary printer engine error, which can normally be easily resolved.

What to do:
Turn the printer off at the machine, then the mains and leave for 30 seconds. Turn back on and resend
the print job if necessary.

HP Error Code:
49 - Printer Error or Communication Error

Explanation:
There can be a few causes of this error depending on the model, which tend to be associated with
firmware errors, cable problems or hardware issues.

What to do:
First try turning the print off and on again. If the problem persists try updating the firmware and replacing
the printer communication cables or reseating memory modules. If unresolved then it is most likely a
hardware problem.

HP Error Code:
50.x - Fuser Error

Explanation:
The printer fuser is faulty or the supporting circuits or power are at fault. The additional 50.x number
indicates:
50.1 Low temperature. Fuser is failing to warm up.
50.2 Warm up failure. The warm-up period timed out. This could be a power supply or firmware issue.
50.3 High temperature. The main thermistor is too hot. Likely to be a control circuit issue.
50.4 Faulty fuser (or Bad AC line voltage). Moderately likely to be bad mains supply (UPS, generator,
extensions)
50.5 Inconsistent fuser or Wrong type fuser installed. The printer has detected the wrong fuser.
50.6 Open fuser. Fuser heater cut-off. The fuser possibly overheated.
50.7 Fuser pressure release mechanism failure. Fuser drive motor or the pressure release doesn't work
50.8 Lower fuser temperature (sub-thermistor). Secondary thermistor detects a fault
50.9 High fuser temperature (sub-thermistor).
What to do:
These faults typically needed assistance from an experienced HP engineer.

HP Error Code:
51 - Beam Detect Error

Explanation:
On older model this normally indicates the tab on the bottom of the cartridge that opens the laser shutter
is missing/snapped off. On new models it can be a problem with the whole laser scanner unit.

What to do:
If it's an older printer then check to see if the tab is missing and if so replace the toner cartridge. New
models may need the laser scanner assembly replacing.

HP Error Code:
52 - Incorrect Scanner Speed Error

Explanation:
The printer uses a polygon mirror to reflect the laser beam across the imaging unit. This error code and
HP error codes 52.1 and 52.2 indicate a problem with this process.

What to do:
These faults typically needed assistance from an experienced HP engineer.

HP Error Code:
54 - Printer Error Cycle Power

Explanation:
There are many causes for this error code. On some models it means the sealing tape hasn't been
removed from the toner cartridge, which is easily resolved.

What to do:
Check whether tape has been left on the printer cartridges and remove it, if not then this error code
typically requires assistant from a HP engineer.

HP Error Code:
55 - Internal Communication Problem / Controller Error

Explanation:
Most likely a poor connection between the DC controller and the formatter. Either or both may have a
fault, although this can sometimes be attributed to a faulty fusers, laser assemblies, firmware DIMMS or
driver problems.

What to do:
These faults typically needed assistance from an experienced HP engineer.

HP Error Code:
56 - Printer Device Error
Explanation:
This error message can relate to a number of different issues depending upon the model.

What to do:
Try one or more of the following, depending upon your HP printer:
1. Make sure all paper trays are correctly installed
2. Reinstall the stacker or staple/stacker
3. You may be trying to incorrectly print transparencies through the duplex unit
4. You may be trying to print envelopes whilst in duplex mode
5. Check the printer's configuration to ensure it is correct
6. Turn the print off for 30 seconds and turn on again

HP Error Code:
57.xx - Fan Failure / Gears Seized / Memory Card Error

Explanation:
On modern HP printers this code indicates a failure of one or more fans, on older machines gears seized
or memory problems.

What to do:
These faults typically needed assistance from an experienced HP engineer.

HP Error Code:
58.xx Error

Explanation:
There are many causes for this error code, depending upon the model it can mean: environmental sensor
error, memory controller problem, fan problem, power problem or DC controller fault.

What to do:
These faults typically needed assistance from an experienced HP engineer.

HP Error Code:
59 - Motor Error

Explanation:
The printer has a motor error, possibly relating to the main motor, fuser motor, image drum motor or ETC
motor. On older models HP error code 59 relates to memory problems.

What to do:
If you have an older model then reseating or changing the memory may resolve the issue. All new models
typically require assistance from an experienced HP engineer.
HP Error Code:
60.xx -

Explanation:
On new printers this relates to a motorised tray lift error. On older models HP error code 60 relates to
memory problems.

What to do:
If you have an older model then reseating or changing the memory may resolve the issue. All new models
with tray lift problems can often be resolved by checking for obstructions such as paperclips or other
objects.

HP Error Code:
61 - Formatter , Memory Error

Explanation:
Your printer either has improperly fitted or bad memory SIMMs or a defective formatter board.

What to do:
Try simply reseating the memory chips. If this doesn't work and replacing the chips still doesn't resolve
the problem then you may have to replace the formatter board.

HP Error Code:
62 - Memory Error, Defective Formatter Board

Explanation:
Your printer either has improperly fitted or bad memory SIMMs or a defective formatter board.

What to do:
Try simply reseating the memory chips. If this doesn't work and replacing the chips still doesn't resolve
the problem then you may have to replace the formatter board.

HP Error Code:
63 - Defective Formatter Board

Explanation:
Your printer either has improperly fitted or bad memory Simms or a defective formatter board.

What to do:
Try simply reseating the memory chips. If this doesn't work and replacing the chips still doesn't resolve
the problem then you may have to replace the formatter board.

HP Error Code:
64 - Scan Buffer Error
Explanation:
Depending up your model this can be a number of different things including: defective D.C. controller,
improperly fitted or bad firmware DIMMs or defective formatter board.

What to do:
Turn the printer off at the machine, then the mains and leave for 30 seconds. If the error code still shows,
try reseating the DIMMs and formatter board. If this doesn't solve the problem then replace the DIMMs
and then the formatter board.

HP Error Code:
65 - Scan Buffer Error

Explanation:
Depending up your model this can be a number of different things including: defective D.C. controller,
improperly fitted or bad firmware dimms or defective formatter board.

What to do:
Turn the printer off at the machine, then the mains and leave for 30 seconds. If the error code still shows,
try reseating the dimms and formatter board. If this doesn't solve the problem then replace the dimms and
then the formatter board.

HP Error Code:
66 - External Paper Handling Device Error

Explanation:
This fault means there's a problem with one or more additional paper or envelope trays or finishing units,
such as a staple finisher.

What to do:
Turn the printer off, checking the connections between all the accessories and that they move freely,
where applicable. If this doesn't resolve the problem you may have sensor or board problems that require
that attention of an engineer.

HP Error Code:
67 - Service Printer Error or Memory Error

Explanation:
Depending up your model this can be a number of different things including: a temporary error, defective
paper guide, a break in communication, controller board error or defective SIMMs.

What to do:
Turn off your printer and check that the paper trays are inserted correctly and aren't damage. Check
whether the I/O printer cable is installed correctly and not damaged, perhaps try using a different cable to
test. Reseat any SIMMs or replace if necessary. If a controller board needs replacing you may need an
engineer.

HP Error Code:
68 - Error in NVRAM. Service Error NVRAM full

Explanation:
The NVRAM is full, meaning some actions can't be processed.

What to do:
Try resetting the NVRAM. First of all print out a configuration page, you'll need this to re-enter any details.
Now reset by holding down "Reset" or "Cancel Job" for 20 seconds while powered on. Print off a second
configuration page and re-enter any details that are missing. If this doesn't resolve the problem you may
need a new formatter board.

HP Error Code:
69 - Duplexer Error has Occurred

Explanation:
The printer has a problem with duplex unit, this is the unit that enables the printer to print double-sided.

What to do:
Check the duplex unit and reseat and clear any obstructions that may be causing the error. If the error
persists you may need a new duplex unit.

HP Error Code:
70 - Faulty MIO Card or SIMMs or Wrong Cartridge

Explanation:
Either the SIMM or cartridge installed is incompatible with the printer or the MIO card is faulty (older
models).

What to do:
Check the SIMMs or cartridge to ensure they are intended for your machine. Faulty MIO problems are
very rare.

HP Error Code:
71 - Faulty MIO Card or SIMMs or Wrong Cartridge

Explanation:
Either the SIMM or cartridge installed is incompatible with the printer or the MIO card is faulty (older
models).

What to do:
Check the SIMMs or cartridge to ensure they are intended for your machine. Faulty MIO problems are
very rare.

HP Error Code:
72 - Defective Font Cartridge or Formatter Board

Explanation:
Either the font cartridge is defective, or was removed during access, or the formatter board is defective.

What to do:
Turn the printer off and on and see if this resolves the problem. Check the font cartridge is installed
correctly. Replace the font cartridge, if unresolved the formatter board may need replacing.

HP Error Code:
79 - Critical Hardware Error has Occurred

Explanation:
Your printer has a defective accessories of some kind, possibly related to memory, I/O cards or a
firmware issue.

What to do:
Update to the latest firmware to rule out this issue. If unresolved, remove all cards/accessories and
replace one by one to identify what is at fault.

HP Error Code:
80 - Defective Network Card or Formatter Board

Explanation:
Your printer has a defective accessory of some kind, possibly related to memory, I/O cards or a firmware
issue.

What to do:
Updated to the latest firmware to rule out this issue. If unresolved, remove all cards/accessories and
replace one my one to identify what is at fault. If unresolved the formatter board may need replacing.

HP Error Code:
81 - Defective Network Card or Formatter Board

Explanation:
Your printer has a defective accessory of some kind, possibly related to memory, I/O cards or a firmware
issue.

What to do:
Updated to the latest firmware to rule out this issue. If unresolved, remove all cards/accessories and
replace one my one to identify what is at fault. If unresolved the formatter board may need replacing.

HP Error Code:
89 - PostScript ROM Failure

Explanation:
Your PS ROM may be improperly located or have damaged pins, or may be defective.

What to do:
Firstly turn the printer off and on to see if this resolves the problem. If not then check the PS ROM for any
damage and reseat. If the problem remains then you may need to replace the PS ROM.

HP Error Code:
99 - Firmware Upgrade

Explanation:
There has been a flash firmware failure.

What to do:
You need to either update to the latest flash firmware or replace the flash firmware DIMM.