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HP LaserJet Pro M404dn Toner Issues & Replacement Guide 2024

2024-12-10•Printer Support Team

The HP LaserJet Pro M404dn uses HP 85A black toner cartridges. This guide covers HP LaserJet Pro M404dn toner replacement, troubleshooting low toner errors, and fixing print quality issues.

HP LaserJet Pro M404dn Toner Cartridge

The HP LaserJet Pro M404dn uses:

  • HP 85A Black Original Toner Cartridge (standard yield: ~2,600 pages)
  • HP 85X Black High-Yield Toner Cartridge (high yield: ~6,500 pages)

HP LaserJet Pro M404dn Low Toner Warning

When HP LaserJet Pro M404dn toner is running low, you'll see:

  • Warning message on printer display: "Toner Low" or "Replace Toner"
  • Faded or light print quality
  • Notification in HP Smart app
  • Warning in print queue or driver software

How to Replace HP LaserJet Pro M404dn Toner

Step 1: Prepare New Toner Cartridge

  1. Purchase genuine HP 85A or HP 85X toner cartridge
  2. Remove toner from packaging
  3. Remove protective tape from toner cartridge
  4. Gently shake toner cartridge 3-4 times to distribute toner

Step 2: Access Toner Area

  1. Turn on HP LaserJet Pro M404dn
  2. Open front access door
  3. Wait for toner carriage to move to replacement position
  4. If carriage doesn't move, printer may need to cool down

Step 3: Remove Old Toner Cartridge

  1. Grasp old HP 85A toner cartridge firmly
  2. Pull straight out of HP LaserJet Pro M404dn
  3. Set old cartridge aside (recycle if possible)
  4. Check for toner spills inside printer

Step 4: Install New Toner Cartridge

  1. Remove new HP 85A toner from packaging
  2. Remove all protective tape
  3. Insert new toner cartridge into HP LaserJet Pro M404dn
  4. Push firmly until it clicks into place
  5. Ensure toner cartridge is fully seated

Step 5: Close and Test

  1. Close front access door on HP LaserJet Pro M404dn
  2. Printer will automatically recognize new toner
  3. Wait for HP LaserJet Pro M404dn to calibrate (30-60 seconds)
  4. Print a test page to verify print quality

HP LaserJet Pro M404dn Toner Error Messages

Error: "Toner Cartridge Not Detected"

Solutions:

  1. Remove and reinsert HP 85A toner cartridge
  2. Ensure toner cartridge is fully seated
  3. Check for damaged toner cartridge contacts
  4. Clean toner cartridge contacts with dry cloth
  5. Try different HP 85A toner cartridge if available

Error: "Toner Cartridge Incompatible"

HP LaserJet Pro M404dn only accepts HP 85A or HP 85X toner cartridges. Ensure you're using the correct model.

Error: "Toner Low" (But Cartridge is New)

Solutions:

  1. Remove and shake HP 85A toner cartridge
  2. Reinstall toner cartridge
  3. Reset toner level in HP LaserJet Pro M404dn settings (if available)
  4. Print several pages to allow toner to distribute

HP LaserJet Pro M404dn Print Quality Issues

Faded or Light Prints

Causes and Solutions:

  • Low toner: Replace HP 85A toner cartridge
  • Economy mode enabled: Disable in printer settings
  • Toner not distributed: Shake HP 85A cartridge and reinstall
  • Drum unit issue: May need professional service

Streaks or Lines in Prints

Solutions:

  1. Remove HP 85A toner cartridge and inspect for damage
  2. Clean printer interior (especially around drum area)
  3. Replace HP 85A toner cartridge if damaged
  4. Run printer cleaning cycle from HP LaserJet Pro M404dn menu

HP LaserJet Pro M404dn Toner Tips

  • Use genuine HP toner: Compatible toners may cause issues
  • Store properly: Keep HP 85A toner in cool, dry place
  • Shake before installing: Distributes toner evenly
  • Recycle old cartridges: HP offers recycling programs
  • Monitor usage: Check toner level regularly in HP Smart app

Need Help with HP LaserJet Pro M404dn Toner?

If you're experiencing HP LaserJet Pro M404dn toner issues or need help replacing the cartridge, our expert technicians can assist. We can guide you through toner replacement or troubleshoot toner-related errors. Call +1-888-423-7757 for support.