[Full Guide] How to Run Printer Troubleshooter on Windows

One of the best things about Windows 10 is it’s capable of installing drivers for your external devices like a printer. If you run into a problem while using your printer, Windows has a built-in troubleshooter to assist users in fixing issues related to printing devices.

But before running the Troubleshooter, make sure to do a basic check first.

• Check all the cables and connections to your printer.
• Make sure that your computer detects your printer. 
• If you are using your printer for the first time on your computer, make sure you have the proper drivers installed
• Check the printer and make sure that the indicator lights are turned on
• Restart your printer
• Restart your computer

If your printer still encounters problems after checking the above, run the printer troubleshooter.

How to Run the Printer Troubleshooter

Step 1: Press the Windows Key + S and search for “Printers & Scanners.”

Step 2: Open Printers & Scanners settings.

Step 3: On the right side menu, find “Run the Troubleshooter.”

Step 4: On the Troubleshooter, click on Next.

Step 5: Wait for the Troubleshooter to finish scanning your computer.

Step 6: Select the printer that is encountering problems.

Step 7: Click Next.

Step 8: Wait for the scan to finish.

Step 9: The Troubleshooter will recommend you make the printer the default printer.

Step 10: Click on Apply this fix.

Step 11: Wait for the Troubleshooter to finish applying the new settings.

Now the Troubleshooter may offer different fixes depending on the problem it detects. Just make sure to follow what the Troubleshooter recommends to do.

If the Troubleshooter fails to fix your printer problems, the issue could be on the printer itself. Try using it on another computer and see if it will work.

Visit the nearest service center and ask them to check your printer for possible hardware problems. You can also try updating your printer driver.

Troubleshooting for Different Printer Issues

While running the Printer Troubleshooter is a helpful initial step, there are other issues that may require specific solutions. Below is a guide for resolving common printer problems.

Printer Not Responding:

If your printer is not responding, try these troubleshooting steps.

Step 1: Verify that your printer is turned on and set as the default printer.
Step 2: Check the connections between your printer and computer.
Step 3: Update your printer drivers.
Step 4: Make sure that your computer and printer are connected to the same network.

Paper Jam:

Paper jams can be frustrating, but you can fix them by following these steps.

Step 1: Turn off your printer.
Step 2: Gently remove any jammed paper or debris from the paper tray and print rollers.
Step 3: Ensure that paper is loaded properly in the tray.
Step 4: Turn your printer back on and print a test page.

Low Ink Warning:

If your printer displays a low ink warning, use these troubleshooting steps.

Step 1: Check the ink levels on your printer.
Step 2: Remove and reinstall the ink cartridges to ensure they are seated correctly.
Step 3: If ink levels are genuinely low, replace the empty cartridges.
Step 4: Clean the printhead following your printer’s instruction manual.

Poor Print Quality:

If the quality of your printed documents or images is unsatisfactory, follow these steps.

Step 1: Check for low ink levels and replace the cartridges if needed.
Step 2: Clean the printhead.
Step 3: Verify that you’re using the correct type of paper for your printer.
Step 4: Adjust your printer settings for optimal print quality.

By addressing these specific issues, you can enjoy a smoother printing experience and get back to producing high-quality documents and images. However, if you’re still encountering problems, don’t hesitate to reach out to the printer’s manufacturer for further assistance.

Conclusion – Troubleshooting Printer Issues

In this article, we’ve provided you with comprehensive instructions on how to run the printer troubleshooter on Windows 10, as well as highlighting the preliminary checks you should complete before running the troubleshooter. We hope that these troubleshooting steps have been helpful in resolving any issues you have encountered with your printer.

Always remember that staying up-to-date with your printer’s drivers and ensuring all connections are secure can prevent many common issues. Should the troubleshooter fail to fix the problem, don’t hesitate to try alternative methods mentioned in this article or seek professional assistance at a service center.

Feel free to share your experiences or ask any questions in the comments section below. Our community and experts are here to help you overcome any printer-related challenges you may face. Let’s keep our printing devices running smoothly and efficiently together!