Issue description
Most Lexmark laser printers include a ‘Toner Low’ warning system. It informs customers that a replacement toner cartridge is required soon. Usually, the printer can still be used while this message is displayed.
When the 'Toner Low' warning first appears, the toner cartridge is typically down to its last ten percent of toner. The indicator level for this error can vary depending on printer model, the capacity rating of the installed cartridge, and customer usage. For this reason, Lexmark does not claim a specific percentage of toner remaining or quantity of pages remaining at which the 'Toner Low' warning appears.
For a more information about the standards that Lexmark follows to measure the yield variability of its toners, see the discussion on ISO Page Yields.
Interpreting Toner Low Message on Lexmark E260 and MS31x Models
Lexmark E260, MS310, MS312, and MS315 printer models feature six lights on their control panels. These lights can be on, off, blinking, or blinking slowly, depending on the message the printer is programmed to convey.
If the printer control panel light sequence matches the light sequence in the subsequent illustrations, then you must order a toner cartridge. If necessary, press the green play button or the diamond button on the printer control panel to continue printing.
For Lexmark E260
For Lexmark MS310, MS312, & MS315
What to do
When receiving a 'Toner Low' message, confirm that an extra toner cartridge is in stock. If not, order a new cartridge immediately.
Note: It is recommended that customers with 'critical use' applications always keep a spare toner cartridge in stock.
Replace the toner cartridge when the 'Toner Low' message appears, or wait until the print begins to fade. If the print fades and there is no extra cartridge in stock, perform the following steps.
Remove the toner cartridge from the printer.
Firmly and carefully shake the toner cartridge from side to side and from front to back several times. This redistributes the remaining toner.
Note: It is recommended to perform this step over a trash can or a sheet of paper to catch and dispose of any loose toner.
Reinsert the toner cartridge and continue printing. To be able to resume printing, press the Continue button.
Repeat these steps as necessary. If the print remains faded after performing these steps, the toner cartridge must be replaced.
Solution
If the toner cartridge is replaced and the 'Toner Low' message remains, the printer must be reset. To do so, power off the printer. Let it sit 20 to 40 seconds, then power it back on. If the 'Toner Low' message does not appear on power-up, try printing again.
If the 'Toner Low' message returns on power-up or when printing, confirm the following:
- The recently installed toner cartridge is a brand new toner cartridge and not a used one.
- The toner cartridge is an original Lexmark brand toner cartridge. Cartridges manufactured by a third party may not be compatible with the printer. If a third-party cartridge is causing this issue, contact the point of purchase for additional support or replacement of the toner cartridge.
- The toner cartridge has not been refilled or refurbished by a third party. If it has, contact the place where it was refilled to have it replaced.