How to Fix Vertical Black Lines When Scanning with HP MFP M479fdw

Select Language:

If you’re experiencing a solid, vertical black line across your scans using the ADF on your HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M479fdw, you’re not alone. This issue often happens even after cleaning the scanner glass and the flatbed, and using canned air to blow out dust from the ADF. The good news is that there’s a simple fix you can try to get your scans clear again.

First, recognize that the line only shows up when scanning through the Automatic Document Feeder (ADF), not on scans from the flatbed glass. It’s also important to note that the line appears on every page in single-sided scans, but on every other page in double-sided scans. This pattern can help you understand where the problem lies.

Now, here’s what to do to fix the issue:

1. Turn off the printer and open the ADF. Carefully check the rollers and the paper path for any dirt, dust, or tiny bits of paper that might be causing the line. Clean these areas gently with a soft, lint-free cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or too much liquid.

2. Examine the ADF scanner window where the sensor reads the pages. Sometimes, dirt or smudges on this sensor window can cause issues like the black line. Clean it gently with a soft cloth slightly dampened with glass cleaner or isopropyl alcohol. Make sure the sensor window is completely dry before turning the printer back on.

3. If the line persists, check if the scanner carriage (the part that moves when you scan) is moving smoothly. Gently open the scanner cover and look for any obstructions or dust on the moving parts and rails.

4. After cleaning, do a test scan with multiple pages. If the line no longer appears, you’re all set! If it still shows up, try performing a firmware update for your printer through HP’s official website. Sometimes, updating the firmware can fix scanning issues caused by bugs.

5. If none of the above steps solve the problem, it may be a hardware issue with the scanner sensor itself. At this point, contacting HP support or scheduling a professional repair might be necessary.

Following these steps should help resolve the vertical black line problem in your scans. Regular maintenance and gentle cleaning can often prevent this sort of issue from happening again.