ErrorCodeDoctor
HP Printer (OfficeJet) Printhead Problem / Printhead Missing or Failed / 0xc19a0003 error code
The Printhead Problem, Printhead Missing, or Printhead Failed error means your HP OfficeJet printer cannot detect or properly initialize the printhead — the component that controls ink delivery from the cartridges to the page. Reseating the printhead and cleaning its electrical contacts resolves many cases. If the printhead has failed completely it will need to be replaced.
Common causes
- Printhead is not seated correctly in the carriage
- Electrical contacts between the printhead and carriage are dirty or have a poor connection
- Printhead has failed due to clogging or electrical fault
- Ink cartridges were replaced without the printhead being properly reseated
How to fix it
-
1
Open the cartridge access door and wait for the carriage to stop moving
-
2
Remove the ink cartridges
-
3
Remove the printhead by lifting the latch and pulling it straight out
-
4
Inspect the printhead electrical contacts for dried ink or debris
-
5
Clean the contacts gently with a lint-free cloth lightly dampened with distilled water — do not touch the ink nozzles
-
6
Also clean the matching contacts inside the carriage
-
7
Wait 10 minutes for contacts to dry then reinsert the printhead and click the latch shut
-
8
Reinstall the cartridges and close the access door
-
9
Perform a printer reset by unplugging the power cord for 60 seconds
-
10
If the error persists contact a qualified technician — the printhead may need to be replaced
Related HP Printer (OfficeJet) error codes
Paper Jam / 0x6100004a
Paper is jammed inside the printer or the print carriage is blocked
Printer Failure / 0x610000ff
A general printer failure was detected — the printer needs to be reset
Ink System Failure / Print System Problem / 0xc19a0003 / 0xc19a0020
A problem was detected with the ink system or printhead
Carriage Jam / 0x6100004a
The print carriage is jammed and cannot move freely