HP Printer 0xc19a0013 Error
What it means
0xc19a0013 is an 'Ink System Failure' error on HP Deskjet, Officejet, and Photosmart printers. The printer cannot reliably communicate with one of the installed ink cartridges, so it halts printing to avoid damaging the print system.
Common causes of the 0xc19a0013 error
- An ink cartridge is low, empty, or not seated correctly in its slot
- Ink build-up or debris on the copper-colored cartridge contacts or vents
- A damaged, refilled, or non-genuine cartridge that the printer cannot read
- A temporary firmware/communication glitch that a power reset can clear
- Outdated printer firmware or drivers
How to fix the HP Printer 0xc19a0013 error
- 1Power reset the printerWith the printer on, unplug the power cord from the printer and from the wall outlet. Wait 60 seconds, then plug it back in and turn it on. This clears a temporary glitch and is the single most common fix for this code.
- 2Reseat the ink cartridgesOpen the cartridge access door and let the carriage move to the center. Remove each cartridge, then push it firmly back into its slot until it clicks. Make sure every cartridge is in its correct color-matched slot.
- 3Clean the cartridge contactsRemove the cartridge and use a fresh, lint-free cloth lightly dampened with distilled water to gently wipe the copper-colored contacts and the matching contacts inside the printer. Let them dry fully, then reinstall.
- 4Check ink levels and replace if neededIf an ink alert appeared before the error, the cartridge may be empty or failing. Replace it with a genuine HP cartridge that matches your model (for example 564, 364, 178, 862, or 920 series).
- 5Update firmware and driversInstall the latest firmware and printer software from HP's official support site for your exact model. Outdated firmware can cause cartridge-read errors.
🧰 When to call a professional
If genuine, full cartridges are correctly seated and cleaned, you have done a power reset, and the error still returns, the cartridge carriage or printhead electronics may be faulty. Contact HP support or an authorized service center rather than opening sealed internal assemblies yourself.
HP 0xc19a0013 error — FAQ
Does error 0xc19a0013 mean I have to buy a new printer?
Usually not. The error is almost always a cartridge seating, contact, or communication problem that a power reset and reseating the cartridges will fix. Only persistent failures after those steps point to hardware that needs service.
Can a refilled or third-party cartridge cause this error?
Yes. Refilled, damaged, or non-genuine cartridges are a common trigger because the printer cannot read them reliably. Swapping in a genuine HP cartridge often resolves it.
I cleaned the contacts but it came back. What now?
Try a full 60-second power reset with the cord unplugged from both the printer and the wall, reseat every cartridge, and update the firmware. If it still returns, the printhead or carriage hardware likely needs professional service.
Sources
This guide is independently written and not affiliated with HP. Always unplug appliances before servicing and follow your model's manual. Error codes and steps can vary by model — when in doubt, consult a qualified technician.