Vertical repetitive defects
If marks repeatedly appear on the printed side of the page at even intervals:
The toner cartridge may be damaged. If you still have the same problem,
remove the toner cartridge and, install a new one. (See
Replacing the toner
cartridge
.)
Parts of the machine may have toner on them. If the defects occur on the back
of the page, the problem will likely correct itself after a few more pages.
The fusing assembly may be damaged. Contact a service representative.
Background scatter
Background scatter results from bits of toner randomly distributed on the printed
page.
The paper may be too damp. Try printing with a different batch of paper. Do
not open packages of paper until necessary so that the paper does not absorb
too much moisture.
If background scatter occurs on an envelope, change the printing layout to
avoid printing over areas that have overlapping seams on the reverse side.
Printing on seams can cause problems.
If background scatter covers the entire surface area of a printed page, adjust
the print resolution through your software application or in
Printing
Preferences
. (See
Opening printing preferences
.)
Misformed characters
If characters are improperly formed and producing hollow images, the paper
stock may be too slick. Try different paper. (See
Print media specifications
.)
Page skew
Ensure that the paper is loaded properly.
Check the paper type and quality. (See
Print media specifications
.)
Ensure that the guides are not too tight or too loose against the paper stack.
Curl or wave
Ensure that the paper is loaded properly.
Check the paper type and quality. Both high temperature and humidity can
cause paper curl. (See
Print media specifications
.)
Turn the stack of paper over in the tray. Also try rotating the paper 180° in the
tray.
Wrinkles or creases
Ensure that the paper is loaded properly.
Check the paper type and quality. (See
Print media specifications
.)
Turn the stack of paper over in the tray. Also try rotating the paper 180° in the
tray.
Back of printouts are dirty
Check for leaking toner. Clean the inside of the machine. (See
Cleaning the
inside
.)
Solid Color or Black pages
The toner cartridge may not be installed properly. Remove the cartridge and
reinsert it.
The toner cartridge may be defective. Remove the toner cartridge and install a
new one. (See
Replacing the toner cartridge
.)