Common symptoms
- Black text is missing, gray, or very faint.
- Color prints normally but black does not.
- Only dark photos print while plain black text is blank.
- The test page shows gaps in black bars or small text.
Likely causes
- Low black ink or toner.
- Clogged black nozzle or dried ink in the print head.
- Printer set to photo mode, draft mode, or composite black.
- Cartridge not seated correctly or incompatible supply installed.
What to try next
- Print the black and white test page and inspect the solid black block and small text.
- Check black ink or toner level in the printer software.
- Reseat the black cartridge or toner if your model allows it.
- Run the cleaning or nozzle-check utility, then print the test page again.
- Switch to plain paper and normal quality to rule out paper or photo-mode settings.
How to reduce repeat problems
- Avoid long idle periods on inkjet printers.
- Use the paper type setting that matches the loaded paper.
- Keep a spare black cartridge or toner if the printer is used for documents.