Complete Guide: Why Is My Canon Printer Not Printing Black When Ink Is Full

BySmith Victor  Last updated on
Why Is My Canon Printer Not Printing Black When Ink Is Full

In the 21st century, Canon printers are the most significant tools in both commercial as well as residential settings. But the saddest part is that being a user you have to encounter printing issues. Are you also experiencing this issue? If so, you need not worry at all as you are not alone. But, it is a must for you to be aware of why is my Canon printer not printing black when ink is full?

Undoubtedly, there are a range of reasons that lead you to encounter this issue. Are you not aware of even a single problem? Or do you have the desire to familiarize yourself with the key troubleshooting tips to resolve this issue? Fret not! You have landed in the right place. This way, you can get an idea about the credibility, and high-quality print results that Canon printers can deliver to you and other users as well.

What is the saddest fact about the Canon printers? Do you have any idea about it? Don’t you? Calm down!!
Canon printers are immune to several occasional malfunctions like all printers. One of the most maddening issues that Canon users encounter is when the printer stops printing black ink even though the ink levels are adequate. Well, this way, your workflow will be disrupted, and your precious time will be wasted.
Let’s walk through this article and be able to recognize & resolve the issues as well!!

Reasons: Why Is My Canon Printer Not Printing Black When Ink is Full

In this section, you will get the details about the common causes why is my Canon printer not printing black when ink is full or there is sufficient ink. Apart from that, you will also have an overview of the steps to fix this annoying issue as well –

1. Clogged Printhead

Is your Canon printer’s printhead clogged? Well, it is the main reason why Canon printers may stop printing black ink. With the passage of time, ink can dry up inside the printhead nozzles. It blocks the ink flow and leads to faded or missing prints. It often happens when the printer has not been utilized for an extended period or in case the environment is specifically dusty.

How to Fix a Clogged Printhead:

  • Run a Printhead Cleaning Cycle:
    Canon printers come with a built-in printhead-clearing function. You have the opportunity to find this option in your printer’s software. Typically, it is possible for you to locate under the “Maintenance” tab. Once you run this cleaning cycle, it will help you dislodge any dried ink from the nozzles.
  • Manual Cleaning:
    In case, the automatic cleaning does not work, you have to clean the printhead manually. So, carefully, remove the printhead. Clean it with a damp and lint-free cloth. For this, it will be worth referring to your printer’s manual for particular instructions. You also have the opportunity to soak the printhead in warm water so that you can dissolve dried ink.

2. Empty or Expired Ink Cartridges

It may also be possible that your printer starts showing that the ink cartridges are full. There is also the possibility that the ink is expired or dried up. Cartridges can sometimes indicate incorrect ink levels.

This ink cartridge can sometimes show inaccurate ink levels and sensor malfunctions. It is all because of several reasons. Apart from that, ink cartridges have a shelf life. If you use an expired ink it can lead to poor print quality or no black ink at all.

How to Fix Expired or Dried Ink:

Check the Expiry Date:
It is essential for you to cross-check the expiration date on the ink cartridge packaging. In case the cartridge is expired, you can replace it with a new one. It is truly the best solution.

Install a New Cartridge:
Have you suspected that the ink dried up? If so, it is a good idea to install a fresh cartridge. You need to make sure that you are using the original Canon cartridges for the best results.

3. Ink Cartridge Not Installed Properly

In a few cases, it happens that the issue is as simple as an improperly installed ink cartridge. Suppose, the ink cartridge is not seated correctly, the printer may not be able to draw the ink. As an outcome, it will lead to black ink printing issues.

How to Fix Incorrectly Installed Cartridges:

Reinstall the Cartridge:
Initially, you have to open the printer and remove the black ink cartridge. Reinstall it carefully. It will help you ensure that it clicks into place. You also need to make sure that there is no protective tape that may cover the ink nozzle. Because it can also block the ink from flowing.

4. Blocked Vent on the Ink Cartridge

The ink cartridges have small vents. It allows air to flow into the cartridge while the ink is dispensed. In case the vent is blocked or clogged, the ink will not flow properly. It could be the major reason your printer is not printing black.

How to Fix Blocked Vents:

Check the Cartridge Vents:
Now, remove the black ink cartridge and examine the vent area. In case you see any blockage, you can gently clean the vent with the use of a pin or small needle to clear it out.

5. Printer Driver Issues

Outdated or corrupted printer drivers can cause various issues. It includes issues with printing black ink. The driver undoubtedly acts as the bridge between your computer and your printer. In case the driver is outdated, it may not communicate the correct instructions to your printer.

How to Fix Printer Driver Issues:

Update the Printer Driver:
To troubleshoot this issue, you have to visit Canon’s official website. Next, download the latest driver for your specific printer model. Install the updated driver. After that, restart your computer so that you can ensure the new driver is properly functioning.

6. Print Settings Issue

It is once in a blue moon that the issue is not with the printer or ink. But the settings on your computer itself. In this case, the print settings are set to use color ink merely, or the grayscale mode is disabled, the printer may not print black ink.

How to Fix Print Settings:

Check the Print Settings:
To kick start the process of verifying your printer’s settings, you need to go to the “Printer Preferences” in the control panel of your computer. And also make sure that the option to print in black is chosen. Additionally, also ensure that grayscale printing is enabled. this can do to fix your cause for Why Is My Canon Printer Not Printing Black When Ink Is Full.

7. Firmware or Software Glitches

Firmware bugs or glitches can also cause the printer to malfunction. It will lead to issues with black ink. It is specifically common in older printer models that have not had regular software updates.

How to Fix Firmware Issues:

Update Firmware:
At the beginning of the upgrading process, cross-check the Canon’s support page. This way, you can verify if there is any firmware update available for your printer model. By upgrading the firmware updates you can resolve known bugs and improve the overall performance of the printer.

8. Air Bubbles in the Ink Cartridge

If the air bubbles are trapped inside the ink cartridge, it can prevent the ink from flowing correctly. It can lead to gaps in the printed text or graphics, specifically in the black sections.

How to Fix Air Bubbles in Ink:

Run a Few Test Prints:
By running several test prints, you can dislodge air bubbles. Besides, you can also get the ink flowing properly again. Well, you also have the option to remove the ink cartridge, shake it gently, and then reinstall it.

9. Faulty Printhead

There are a few cases when the printhead may be damaged or faulty. In case, the printhead itself is broken, it won’t be able to dispense ink correctly. You have to encounter this issue, even if the cartridge is full.

How to Fix a Faulty Printhead:

Replace the Printhead:
Suppose, the printhead is damaged, you may need to replace it. A few Canon printers have removable printheads. On the other hand, a few have integrated ones that need professional servicing.

10. Paper Type and Quality

The particular type and quality of paper you are utilizing can also affect the performance of your printer. A few types of paper don’t absorb ink and others. Specifically, in case the paper is coated or glossy.

How to Fix Paper Issues:

Use the Correct Paper Type:
You need to ensure that you are utilizing the right type of paper for your print job. Further, you can also verify the printer settings and adjust the paper type so that you can match the paper you are utilizing.

Wrapping-up

Ultimately, after delving into the information given above, you will be aware of why is my Canon printer not printing black when ink is full? No doubt, this problem can be quite frustrating, but the interesting thing is that you can solve it easily by following the basic troubleshooting tips already mentioned in this blog.

This way, you can easily resolve the issue and also get your printer back in working order. It is confirmed that you can avoid several common printing issues and that your printer functions efficiently for a long time. You can have assurance that with the right care and attention, your Canon printer will continue to provide you with top-notch prints. Along with this, you won’t have to worry about missing black ink again.