Why is Brother Printer MFC J1170dw not Printing? Fixed

The Brother MFC J-1170dw is a versatile multifunctional printer, but malfunctions can disrupt workflow. Routine checkups and timely cleaning of the printer ensure uninterrupted workflow. Fortunately, the issue of Brother printer MFC J-1170dw not printing often stems from a common culprit: clogged printheads. 

This guide offers a comprehensive solution to address this issue. It outlines a common printhead cleaning process and offers additional troubleshooting strategies to resolve other potential causes of malfunction. 

Brother Printer MFC J-1170dw Printhead Cleaning

If you’re struggling with print quality issues with your Brother MFCJ-1170dw, a printhead cleaning might be the solution. Here’s how to tell if it is the right approach to fix the malfunction: entirely blank pages upon printing indicate a clogged printhead that’s preventing ink from reaching the paper. 

Streaks or faded colors suggest clogged nozzles within the printhead, causing interrupted ink flow. Finally, inaccurate or dull colors in your prints point to clogged nozzles dispensing the wrong colors of ink, resulting in distorted output.

Brother Printer MFC J-1170dw Troubleshooting 

While cleaning the printhead might fix the printing issue with your Brother Printer MFC J1170-dw, it’s better to check a few things first. 

  • Make sure the ink cartridges have enough ink, as low levels can cause problems. 

  • Also, verify that the paper tray is loaded correctly and has the appropriate size and type of paper for your project. 

  • Double-check your internet connection to ensure that your printer is connected to the same network as your PC if you are using Wi-Fi. 

  • Also, sometimes, a stuck print job can prevent your printer from functioning properly, so try canceling any pending jobs on your computer to see if that resolves the issue. 

Brother Printer MFC J-1170dw Printhead Cleaning Guide

While your machine automatically cleans the print head for optimal quality. However, if you face a similar issue of Brother Printer MFC J-1170dw not printing and it isn't resolved, the manual approach is your answer. Also, remember to never touch the print head directly, as this can lead to permanent damage and void the warranty. 

Follow these simple steps for manual print head cleaning and ensure printer maintenance.

What You’ll Need:

  • A computer connected to the printer

  • A brother printer MFC J-1170dw printer cleaning kit

  • Needle nose pliers

  • New ink cartridges

STEP1: Prepare the Printer

If you diagnose the problem of your Brother Printer MFC J-1170dw not printing, initially access the settings menu and print a test report. 

If you want to examine a specific stage of the printing process, you can optionally start printing the test report and then unplug the printer’s power cable. This helps you identify the printing issue.

brother printing problems

STEP2:  Accessing the Print Head

To access the print head for cleaning, first, open the top cover of your printer and fully expose the printhead compartment. Once it’s open, it's better to lay down a paper towel directly beneath the printhead compartment. This is a precautionary measure to catch any ink spills that might occur during the cleaning process. 

Accessing the Print Head

STEP3: Cleaning With Solution

Solve the issue of Brother printer MFC J-1170dw not printing by first attempting to clean the clogged printer’s nozzles. Before this, it’s crucial to replace the ink cartridges because this cleaning process uses a significant amount of ink, and using fresh cartridges ensures you’re not wasting ink from your current set. 

Now, the cleaning kit essentials, syringe, and solution will be used. Attach the syringe to the specific nozzle on the print head designated for cleaning. It’s better to use pliers to create a secure connection while gently pushing the solution through the nozzle. 

It’s suggested to warm up the solution if there is a particularly stubborn clog. This can help break down the dried ink and make it easier to flush out through the nozzle. 

printers clean

STEP4: Drying and Reassembly

Following the print head cleaning, for optimal performance, let it air dry for 24 hours on a fresh paper towel to ensure complete evaporation. During this drying process, keep the printer off to prevent any accidental ink movement or damage. Then, with a fully dry print head, you’re ready to install new cartridges.

STEP5: Final Cleaning Cycle

The last step to verify that the issue of your Brother printer MFC-J1170dw not printing has now been fixed is to access the printer settings menu again and run the built-in printhead cleaning function. Repeat the process several times until you receive a full range of colors in your prints.

Final Cleaning Cycle

Brother Printer MCF J-1170DW Not Printing- Now Fixed

While cleaning the printhead can be a straightforward process, it requires careful attention and proper drying time. Following these steps and using high-quality cleaning supplies can help revive your Brother Printer MFC J-1170dw printer and restore its printing quality. 

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