HP Printer Error Code 66: How to Fix It
Medium 20-45 minutes Medium Severity
Verified June 2026
- Error Code
- 66
- Brand
- HP
- Product Type
- printer
- Severity
- Medium
- DIY Difficulty
- Medium
- Estimated Fix Time
- 20-45 minutes
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Tools You'll Need
- Flashlight or smartphone torch
- Lint-free microfiber cloth
- Cotton swabs
- Distilled water
- Phillips screwdriver (small)
- Clean, dry paper (letter or A4 size)
- Computer with internet access (for firmware update and diagnostic tool)
How to Fix Error Code 66
-
Power Off and Unplug the Printer
Always unplug the printer before reaching inside or touching internal components to avoid electric shock or injury from moving parts. -
Check for and Remove All Jammed Paper
Never yank paper out forcefully — torn scraps left inside will trigger the error again. If paper tears, remove every fragment before closing panels. -
Inspect and Clean the Paper Feed Rollers
Do not use alcohol, bleach, or household cleaning sprays on the rollers — these degrade the rubber and will worsen the problem. -
Check the Paper Tray and Paper Stack
Only use paper that meets HP's recommended weight and size specifications for your printer model. Using thick, curled, damp, or recycled paper increases the likelihood of feed errors. -
Perform a Hard Reset (Restore Factory Defaults)
A factory reset will clear any custom network settings or saved configurations. Note your Wi-Fi password and settings before resetting if this is a wireless printer. -
Update Printer Firmware and Drivers
Do not turn off the printer or disconnect it during a firmware update. Interrupting the update can permanently damage the printer's software. -
Run HP Print and Scan Doctor Diagnostic Tool
-
Inspect and Replace Worn Paper Feed Rollers if Needed
Handle new rollers carefully — avoid touching the rubber surface with bare hands, as skin oils reduce grip. Use gloves or handle by the edges only.
Parts You May Need
Paper feed roller kit
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Paper separation pad
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Printer paper (standard weight, letter or A4)
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Paper feed roller kit
Check Price on Amazon
Paper separation pad
Check Price on Amazon
Printer paper (standard weight, letter or A4)
Check Price on Amazon
Paper feed roller kit
Check Price on Amazon
Paper separation pad
Check Price on Amazon
Printer paper (standard weight, letter or A4)
Check Price on Amazon
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When to Call a Professional
If Error Code 66 continues to appear after you have cleared all jammed paper, cleaned or replaced the feed rollers, updated firmware, and performed a hard reset, the paper handling unit itself — including its motor, sensors, or internal gears — may have failed mechanically. At this point, repair costs for parts and labor may approach or exceed the cost of a new printer. Contact HP Support at support.hp.com or an authorized HP service center for a professional diagnosis. If your printer is under warranty, HP may repair or replace it at no charge, so check your purchase date and warranty status before spending money on repairs.Frequently Asked Questions
What does Error Code 66 mean on an HP printer?
Error Code 66 on an HP printer signals a paper handling unit error, meaning the printer has detected a problem with how it picks up, feeds, or moves paper through its internal paper path. Common causes include a paper jam, worn or dirty feed rollers, an improperly loaded paper tray, or an internal sensor failure.
How do I clear a paper jam that is causing HP Error Code 66?
Turn off and unplug the printer, then open the front access door, rear access panel, and remove the paper tray. Carefully pull out any jammed paper in the direction of travel — do not pull against the feed direction. Use a flashlight to find small torn pieces deep inside the printer. Once all paper is removed, reload a fresh, properly aligned stack and power the printer back on.
Can dirty rollers cause HP Error Code 66?
Yes. Dirty or worn paper feed rollers are one of the most common causes of HP Error Code 66. When rollers become coated in paper dust and debris, they lose their grip and struggle to pull paper through the printer correctly, triggering a paper handling error. Cleaning the rollers with a lint-free cloth dampened with distilled water often resolves this without any parts replacement.
Will a factory reset fix HP Error Code 66?
A hard reset can fix Error Code 66 if the error was caused by a software glitch or corrupt setting stored in the printer's memory. However, if the root cause is a physical issue like a jam, worn rollers, or a broken sensor, a reset alone will not permanently fix the problem. Always clear physical issues first, then perform a reset if the error persists.
How much does it cost to fix HP Error Code 66 at a repair shop?
Repair costs vary depending on the root cause and your printer model. Simple fixes like roller replacement may cost $50 to $100 in parts and labor. If the paper handling unit motor or sensors have failed, repairs can range from $80 to $200 or more. Since many HP printers can be purchased new for under $150, it is worth comparing repair costs to replacement costs before proceeding with professional service.