Printhead Life Expired
Last updated: February 16, 2026
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This error indicates that one or more printheads have reached the end of their estimated useful life. While they may still function, print quality is likely to degrade.
- 1Printhead reached end of its service life
- 2High print volume usage
- 3Internal printhead component wear
- 4Faulty printhead (rarely premature)
- 5Printer firmware miscalculation (rare)
- Printer displays '0x00C10003' error code
- Print quality degradation (banding, streaks)
- Printer prompts to replace printhead
- Colors appear faded or incorrect
- Printer may eventually stop printing
- 1
Identify the printhead(s) indicated as expired by the printer's display.2. Replace the identified printhead(s) with new, genuine HP printheads.3. Perform a printhead alignment after replacement.
Always replace expired printheads promptly for optimal print quality. Keep a spare set of printheads on hand if you print frequently. This error is common on older T-series models or those with high print volumes. Don't try to 'reset' the printhead, as it won't restore its physical condition.
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Glossary Terms
Related Questions
Service Providers
The component that deposits ink onto the media. DesignJet printers use thermal inkjet printheads that fire tiny droplets of ink through microscopic nozzles.
A calibration process that ensures all printheads are precisely aligned relative to each other for accurate color registration and sharp output.
When the printhead physically contacts the media surface during printing, potentially damaging both the print and the printhead.
A numeric or alphanumeric code displayed on the printer's front panel or in diagnostic logs that identifies a specific hardware or software malfunction.
The HP 711 Printhead (C1Q10A) is the replacement printhead for HP DesignJet T120, T520, T125, T130, T525, and T530 printers.
The HP 712 Printhead is designed for HP DesignJet T210, T230, T250, T630, T650, and Studio series printers.
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