ErrorCodeDoctor
HP · Printer (OfficeJet)

HP Printer (OfficeJet) Align Printhead / Printhead Alignment Error error code

Difficulty: Easy · Cost: $0 · Duration: 3–5m

The Align Printhead message means your HP OfficeJet printer needs to run a printhead alignment routine. This is typically triggered automatically after installing new ink cartridges. The printer will print an alignment page and then scan it to calibrate the printhead. Make sure plain white paper is loaded in the input tray before the alignment begins.

Common causes

  • New ink cartridges were installed and the printer needs to align the printhead
  • Print quality has degraded and an alignment was triggered
  • Printhead alignment was manually requested

How to fix it

  1. 1

    Make sure plain white paper is loaded in the input tray

  2. 2

    Press OK or Resume to begin the alignment process

  3. 3

    The printer will print an alignment page — do not interrupt this process

  4. 4

    Once printed place the alignment page face-down on the scanner glass if prompted

  5. 5

    Press OK to scan and complete the alignment

  6. 6

    The printer will return to the ready state when alignment is complete

Related HP Printer (OfficeJet) error codes

1

Paper Jam / 0x6100004a

Paper is jammed inside the printer or the print carriage is blocked

easy
2

Printer Failure / 0x610000ff

A general printer failure was detected — the printer needs to be reset

easy
3

Ink System Failure / Print System Problem / 0xc19a0003 / 0xc19a0020

A problem was detected with the ink system or printhead

medium
4

Printhead Problem / Printhead Missing or Failed / 0xc19a0003

The printer cannot detect or initialize the printhead

medium

Align Printhead / Printhead Alignment Error error — frequently asked questions

What does the Align Printhead / Printhead Alignment Error error mean on a HP printer (officejet)?

The printhead needs to be aligned for optimal print quality

What causes the Align Printhead / Printhead Alignment Error error?

The Align Printhead / Printhead Alignment Error error is usually caused by: New ink cartridges were installed and the printer needs to align the printhead; Print quality has degraded and an alignment was triggered; Printhead alignment was manually requested.

Can I fix the Align Printhead / Printhead Alignment Error error myself?

Yes — this is rated an easy fix that most people can do themselves, typically in 3–5m.

How much does it cost to fix the Align Printhead / Printhead Alignment Error error?

Fixing the Align Printhead / Printhead Alignment Error error on a HP printer (officejet) typically costs $0, depending on parts and whether you do it yourself or hire a technician.

Is it safe to keep using my printer (officejet) with the Align Printhead / Printhead Alignment Error error?

In most cases yes, but it's best to address the Align Printhead / Printhead Alignment Error error soon — see the fix steps below to resolve it.