Print quality defect: EP process results in inconsistent coverage and toner starvation on printouts

Issue description

Output characteristics:

• Toner coverage is blotchy and inconsistent.
• Toner starvation is seen on the printed page.
• The top area of the page is darker than the sheet's bottom area.
• Print appears to be very faint in areas.
• Residual ghost characters or images from a previously printed page are visible.

Click the link below for sample images.

Sample Image #1

Sample Image #2

Solution

To troubleshoot this issue, please follow the steps below:

1. Use of non-genuine Lexmark Supplies such as refilled cartridges or supplies sold as compatible with Lexmark products.

   Note:  Use of Non-Lexmark supplies can result in damage to printer components and in multiple failures, including degraded print quality within the system; i.e., the effects of using such non-Lexmark supplies are not limited to the imaging unit, printhead, fuser, transfer system, and paper feed reliability.



2. Frequent 31.46 or 31.66 Reinstall Missing or Unresponsive Toner Cartridge/Imaging Unit errors.



3. Storage of supplies or use of the printer outside normal environmental limits for temperature and humidity.

Storage and operation limits:

• Temperature: 16 to 32°C (60 to 90°F)
• Humidity: 8 to 80% Relative Humidity
• Altitude: 0 – 2896 Meters (9,500 Feet)

If the issue persists, search for more information related to this issue or contact support for further assistance.