I can not get printer to print. Print head and ink cartridges are clicked in. Error message says "print head loose or missing". I have removed and reinserted several times. Still won't work. Ink cartridges are over half full. This is a brand new printer and has not printed anything yet. Getting frustrated. Ready to return printer and get my money back.

Had exactly the same issue - working fine until ink cartridge changed (kodak for kodak - not a copy). Then can only get 'print head error message'.
Multiple attempts to remove and re-install, power on/off etc. but can't shift the error message. New print head more expensive than a new printer!

Hello,
Unfortunately, trying to diagnose a printer without actually looking at the printer is a little like trying to diagnose a car engine over the phone. But, from the sound of it, the problem you are having is not exactly pertaining to the print "cartridges" but the print "head" which is the part of the printer that actually introduces the ink to the paper, and is actually part of the tray the ink cartridges fit into. Here is a picture of it:

This print head is able to be removed and replaced if needed. It may be something as trivial as being loose. You can remove it from the printer and reinstall it to make sure it is seated correctly. Here is a link for instructions on Kodak's website on how to uninstall and replace the print head:
Installing and replacing print head.

If the print head is either damaged or worn out (which can happen) you can replace the print head, which I just did a search online for one and it appears the print head is only around $35.00 to replace it. Here is a link to where I found a replacement print head:
Kodak Print Head Replacement for ESP2150

I hope this helps.

-Nathan

Most likely this is a print head issue. The print head is what the cartridges sit in inside of the printer. To attempt to resolve it, do the following:

(1) Open the printer and wait for the carriage to slide over. If for some reason it does not follow these instructions:
(a) Unplug the printer
(b) Manually slide the carriage over until you can get the ink cartridges out.
(2) Remove the ink cartridges from the print head.
(3) Use cotton swabs dipped in isopropyl alcohol or hot water or a mix of hot water and isopropyl alcohol to thoroughly clean the print head.
(4) Repeat this until there is no ink residue coming off on the cotton swab.
(5) Once finished, allow to dry and replace the cartridges
(6) Try to print something now

If that does not work, then you need to try soaking the print head. In this case:
(1) Remove the print head from the printer
(2) Soak it in hot water for an hour or so
(3) Remove it, let it dry completely
(4) Replace the print head and cartridges and test it

Same story...Yes i use brand name cardrige... But i use it one a month since 29 months ! HELP !

It means that the printer is unable to clean the print head number(s) 46. The print head is located under the ink cartridges. Remove the cartridges, and you should see a plastic piece with a hole in it to put your finger under and snap open. This allows you to see the print heads. The print heads look like a sponge type dabber on top of a plastic case. Grab a hold of the print head and pull it out. Look for ink that has spilled behind it or on any of the brass colored computer connections. use warm water and a lint free cloth to scrub it off. Press the print head sponge with your finger and make sure that ink primes and fills the head then put the printer back together and try a test page. If you stll get the error then you need to contact brother for a print head replacement.

Dear Diogo,

This error message occurs when the print head life is over. Every print head is designed with a specific life time (it is purely a mechanical device). Once the life time is over you will get this error message.

I recommend you to calibrate the print head, if you have that option in the software or front panel display(if any). Also, you can try using a new set of cartridges (if you printer is ink jet)

Thanks and regards,
Dr Tony.

this like your cartridge has problem with connection
open printer cover/door
then disconnect your printer cartridge, both the color and black, then connect the cartridge again
close the printer cover/door
try to print again, if message still appear, it mean you need to change your cartridge with new one

Mostly, printer cartridge error occurs when the printer head is unable to identify the cartridge properly. And the basic reason behind this is that the cartridge is improperly attached. To reattach the cartridge, turn on the lid of the printer and then remove the cartridge from the printer head. Check the cartridge to make sure that there are no scratches or other damaged parts that can contribute to a printer cartridge error report. Take note that the cartridge should not be left open for more than 30 minutes; otherwise the ink will start to dry up and the cartridge will get clogged.

Clean the print head if you suspect that the nozzles might be clogged. Cleaning the print head consumes ink, so perform print head cleaning only when necessary.

Hope this initial info/idea helps.

Went to online chat with Lexmark. FREE.

They offered to replace cartridges as they felt the ink was dried out in one, and the ink jets in the other were damaged.