Step 1  Turn off the printer, wait for 10 seconds, and then turn on the printer.  Decrease toner darkness. From the control panel, navigate to Settings > Print > Quality > Toner Darkness.  Print the document.
Does gray background appear on prints? | Go to step 2. | The problem is solved. |
Step 2  Check if the printer is using a genuine and supported Lexmark toner cartridge. Note: If the cartridge is not supported, then install a supported one.  Print the document.
Does gray background appear on prints? | Go to step 3. | The problem is solved. |
Step 3  Depending on your operating system, specify the paper type from the Printing Preferences or Print dialog. Notes: - Make sure that the setting matches the paper loaded.
- You can also change the setting from the printer control panel. Navigate to Settings > Paper > Tray Configuration > Paper Size/Type.
 Print the document.
Does gray background appear on prints? | Go to step 4. | The problem is solved. |
Step 4  Remove, and then insert the imaging unit. Warning—Potential Damage: Do not expose the imaging unit to direct light. Extended exposure to light may cause print quality problems. Warning—Potential Damage: Do not touch the photoconductor drum. Doing so may affect the quality of future print jobs.  Print the document.
Does gray background appear on prints? | Go to step 5. | The problem is solved. |
Step 5  Update the printer firmware. For more information, see the “Updating firmware” section.  Print the document.
Does gray background appear on prints? | Go to step 6. | The problem is solved. |
Step 6  Replace the imaging unit.  Print the document.
Does gray background appear on prints? | Contact customer support. | The problem is solved. |