HP 3301 “Cartridge problem”: fix it in four steps.

On the HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301fdw and 3301sdw this message almost always means compatible toner went in before its chip was activated. The printer itself is fine.

1. Run the chip tool. Download your toner brand’s app, activate or upgrade each chip as its guide says, then reinstall the cartridges.
2. Power-cycle. Turn the printer off, unplug it for 60 seconds, plug it back in and turn it on.
3. Reseat the cartridges. Take each one out and push it back until it clicks into place.
4. Clean the contacts. Wipe each cartridge’s chip contacts with a dry, lint-free cloth.

Still stuck?

If the printer has already locked the chip, contact the toner seller. It is their chip and their tool, and they can walk you through it or replace the cartridges.

Stop it from coming back

HP’s firmware can block cartridges with a non-HP chip. Buy the set with the chip fitted and turn off automatic firmware updates before you fit it: Menu → Utilities → Settings → Firmware Update → Next → “Do Not Check”.

“Toner low” on a new cartridge?

Compatible chips sometimes report the level wrong. The cartridge keeps printing normally, so you can dismiss the message.

Printer hardware fault?

Hardware and warranty claims go to HP: support.hp.com.

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