HP LaserJet Pro MFP M125-M128, M26 printers - Fix poor print quality

This document is for the following printers.

The quality of a printed document is not as expected. The procedures in this document should help with print quality problems such as smeared, fuzzy, dark, or faded print, and loose, partially missing, or scattered toner.

HP recommends that you use genuine HP ink or toner supplies. HP cannot guarantee the quality or reliability of non-HP or refilled cartridges. If you do not use genuine HP cartridges, the steps in this document might not resolve the issue. To check the authenticity of your cartridges, go to the HP anti-counterfeit webpage (in English).

Purchase replacement cartridges and other supplies from the HP Store or local retailers.

The quality and type of paper can affect the print job. Follow these guidelines to make sure that the paper is appropriate. If it is not, load an appropriate paper type.

note:

To purchase paper in the United States and Canada, go to the HP Store.

• Use paper that is designed for use in HP LaserJet printers. Do not use paper that is designed only for inkjet printers.
• Do not use paper that is too rough. Smoother paper might result in better print quality.

After loading the appropriate paper in the tray, try to print. If the issue persists, continue to the next step

EconoMode is an option for printing that uses less toner. However, using EconoMode can reduce print quality.

If the entire page is too dark or too light, the EconoMode setting might be enabled. HP does not recommend the full-time use of EconoMode. If EconoMode is used full time, the toner supply might outlast the mechanical parts in the toner cartridge. If print quality begins to degrade and is no longer acceptable, replace the toner cartridge.

Sometimes the print settings can affect the print quality. Select your operating system, and then check the print settings to make sure that they are appropriate for your print job.

Select your printer control panel display type, and then check your printer's toner level.

To access and replace the toner cartridge, open the scanner assembly and top cover, remove the old toner cartridge, and then install a new one.

1. Lift the scanner assembly.
   Figure : Lifting the scanner assembly

   
2. Open the top cover.
   Figure : Opening the top cover

   
3. Remove the toner cartridge.
   Figure : Removing the toner cartridge

   
4. Remove the new toner cartridge from the package.
   Figure : Removing the new toner cartridge from the package

   
5. Place the used toner cartridge in the bag for recycling.
6. Locate the orange clip on the new toner cartridge.
   Figure : Locating the orange clip on the new toner cartridge
   
   1. The orange clip
   2. The orange tab with sealing tape
7. Remove the orange clip by pulling upward.
   Figure : Removing the orange clip

   
8. Grasp both sides of the toner cartridge, and then distribute the toner by gently rocking the toner cartridge back and forth.

     caution:

   Do not touch the shutter or the surface of the roller.

   Figure : Gently rocking the toner cartridge

   
9. Bend the tab on the left side of the toner cartridge until the tab breaks loose. Pull the tab until all the sealing tape is removed from the toner cartridge.
   Figure : Removing the sealing tape

   
10. Place the tab and tape in the toner cartridge box to return for recycling.
11. Align the new toner cartridge with the tracks inside the printer, and then push the toner cartridge until it is firmly seated.
    Figure : Installing the toner cartridge

    
12. Close the top cover.
    Figure : Closing the top cover

    
13. Lower the scanner assembly.
    Figure : Lowering the scanner assembly

    

The printing mechanism and printing path inside the printer might need to be cleaned to resolve issues like repeating dots, fuzzy print, or smeared toner.

Check the toner cartridge for damage.

1. Lift the scanner assembly.
   Figure : Lifting the scanner assembly

   
2. Open the top cover.
   Figure : Opening the top cover

   
3. Remove the toner cartridge.
   Figure : Removing the toner cartridge

   
4. Examine the memory chips for damage.
   If a memory chip is damaged, refer to the previous steps to replace a toner cartridge.
   Figure : Locating the toner cartridge memory chip

   
5. Reinstall the toner cartridge. Align the toner cartridge with the tracks inside the printer, and then push the toner cartridge until it is firmly seated.
   Figure : Installing the toner cartridge

   
6. Close the top cover.
   Figure : Closing the top cover

   
7. Lower the scanner assembly.
   Figure : Lowering the scanner assembly

   

Try to print. If the issue persists, continue to the next step.

Service or replace your HP product if the issue persists after completing all the preceding steps.

Go to Contact HP Customer Support to schedule a product repair or replacement. If you are in Asia Pacific, you will be directed to a local service center in your area.

To confirm your warranty status, go to HP Product Warranty Check. Repair fees might apply for out-of-warranty products.

note:

Keep a print sample that shows the problem. If the printer, imaging drum, or toner cartridges are replaced under warranty, the support agent might request the print sample.