HP Printer Error Code 55: How to Fix It

Medium 30-60 minutes Medium Severity Verified June 2026
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Error Code
55
Brand
HP
Product Type
printer
Severity
Medium
DIY Difficulty
Medium
Estimated Fix Time
30-60 minutes
HP Printer Error Code 55 indicates a communication failure between the printer engine and the formatter board — the brain of your printer that processes print jobs and sends instructions to the print mechanism. This error commonly appears after a firmware glitch, a loose internal connection, or a failing formatter board. In many cases, a simple power reset or reseating internal components can resolve the issue without professional help.
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Tools You'll Need

How to Fix Error Code 55

  1. Perform a Full Power Reset

    Always unplug the printer from the wall before performing any internal inspection. Never work on the printer while it is powered on.

  2. Check and Reseat All Cable Connections

    Discharge any static electricity by touching a grounded metal surface before handling internal components. Ribbon cables are fragile — pull connectors straight out rather than yanking the cables.

  3. Remove and Reinstall Optional Accessories

  4. Update or Reinstall Printer Firmware

    Never interrupt a firmware update — doing so can permanently damage the formatter board and render the printer inoperable.

  5. Reseat or Replace the Formatter Board

    The formatter board can retain charge even when unplugged. Wait at least 60 seconds after unplugging before touching internal components. Handle the board by its edges only to avoid static damage.

  6. Test with a Cold Reset

    A cold reset will erase all custom printer settings. Back up or note any network, tray, or preference settings before proceeding.

Parts You May Need

Formatter board
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Ribbon cable assembly
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Anti-static wrist strap
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Formatter board
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Ribbon cable assembly
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Anti-static wrist strap
Check Price on Amazon
Formatter board
Check Price on Amazon
Ribbon cable assembly
Check Price on Amazon
Anti-static wrist strap
Check Price on Amazon
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When to Call a Professional

If the error code 55 persists after completing all steps — including firmware update, cable reseating, and formatter board reseating — the formatter board has likely failed and requires professional replacement. Additionally, if you notice burn marks, a burning smell, or physical damage inside the printer, stop immediately and contact an HP-authorized service technician. Enterprise and high-volume laser printers with Error 55 that recur intermittently may have deeper engine communication faults best diagnosed with HP service diagnostic tools available only to certified technicians.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does HP printer error code 55 mean?
Error code 55 on an HP printer indicates a communication failure between the formatter board and the printer engine. The formatter board is responsible for processing print data and coordinating the mechanical components. When this communication breaks down, the printer halts and displays error 55.
Can a power reset fix HP error code 55?
Yes, in many cases a full power reset — unplugging the printer from the wall for 60 seconds — clears a temporary communication glitch that causes error 55. This should always be the first step before attempting any hardware-level fixes.
How much does it cost to replace an HP printer formatter board?
A replacement formatter board for an HP printer typically costs between $30 and $150 depending on the printer model, with professional labor adding $50 to $100 if performed by a technician. For older or lower-cost printers, replacement may not be cost-effective compared to buying a new printer.
Will updating HP printer firmware fix error code 55?
A firmware update can fix error 55 if the cause is a software or communication protocol bug introduced by a previous firmware version. It is one of the most reliable free fixes to try before replacing hardware components.
Is HP error code 55 the same as error 55.X or 55.00.00?
Yes, variations like 55.X, 55.00.00, or 55.0X all fall under the same error 55 category related to printer/formatter communication issues. The sub-code after the decimal may indicate a more specific sub-system fault, but the diagnostic and repair steps are generally the same across all 55-series error variants.

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