Unexpected print colors can come from more than one cause. A cartridge may be low, a print setting may be wrong, or the paper and image may affect the result. Work through these checks before replacing ink, and use the instructions for your exact printer model.
Check the file and print settings
Confirm the document or photo looks correct on screen and that the printer is not set to grayscale, draft, or another color mode that changes the output. Check the paper type and print-quality options in the dialog or printer software.
Print a test page
If your printer offers a nozzle or quality-check page, print one. Missing bars, lines, or whole colors can help distinguish a supply issue from a setting issue. Follow the printer's instructions for a maintenance cycle if the test indicates one is needed.
Check cartridges and paper
Review ink-level messages and confirm the cartridges are installed in the correct slots. Check the cartridge number and color against your printer's documentation. Also make sure the selected paper is intended for the type of printing you're doing.
Order only after confirming the match
If a color is still missing, check the current cartridge number and printer model before replacing it. Use this guide to find both numbers, then shop HP printer supplies, Canon ink cartridges, or Lexmark ink cartridges. More troubleshooting is in our signs-of-low-ink guide.