PIXMA TS9521C Odd Printing Lines

[jergood1980]

Hi there, has anyone ever experienced this type of issue when printing?  I've done the basics: cleaned print heads, changed print cartridges, and performed an alignment.  Any help is appreciated.

[SignifDigits]

I have not.  That looks almost like the print head is encountering an object that is keeping if from moving across the paper.  I would double check there isn't a bit of torn paper or something on the print head track or in the paper path.

[Danny]

Thanks for joining the conversation, jergood1980!

So that the Community can help you better, we need to know exactly which Canon printer model you're using within the PIXMA TS9500 series.  The model number should be on the front of the unit at the bottom right corner of the movable operation panel.  That, and any other details you'd like to give will help the Community better understand your issue!

If this is a time-sensitive matter, click HERE search our knowledge base or find additional support options HERE.

Thanks and have a great day!

[jergood1980]

Thank you for the clarification.  Model TS9521C

[DerrickL]

The nozzle check pattern you posted indicates a severe ink delivery issue primarily affecting the black (PGBK and CLI-681 BK) ink channels, while the blue (Cyan) ink is firing properly.

I suggest you run an all color nozzle check to verify that the other colors are printing properly. 

Potential Causes

• Clogged Print Head Nozzles: This is the most common cause. Dried ink or paper dust blocks the micro-nozzles, preventing the black ink from being properly ejected.

• Ink Starvation or Low Ink Levels: One or both of your black ink cartridges (Pigment Black or Dye Black) may be completely empty, near empty, or suffering from a broken vacuum seal. Ink levels on the screen can sometimes show as full even when a cartridge is physically dry or malfunctioning.

• Air Bubbles in the Print Head: If you recently replaced the ink cartridges or the printer sat unused for a long time, air bubbles can get trapped in the print head channels, blocking the flow of ink.

• Third-Party Ink Cartridge Issues: If you use aftermarket or refilled cartridges, the physical ink formula might be too thick, or the cartridge chip may not communicate properly with the printer's firing mechanisms.

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Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide

1. Verify and Reseat the Ink Cartridges

Open the printer lid to let the carriage slide to the center. Physically remove both the PGBK (large black) and BK (small black) cartridges. Ensure that the protective plastic wrap and orange tape are entirely removed. Re-insert them firmly until they click into place. If they are light or empty, replace them with fresh cartridges.

2. Run Built-In Cleaning Cycles

Use the printer's operation panel to flush out minor clogs:

1. Navigate to Setup (the gear icon) on the printer screen.

2. Select Maintenance and tap Cleaning.

3. Let the cycle finish (about 1 minute) and print a new nozzle check pattern.

4. If the lines do not improve, return to the Maintenance menu and select Deep Cleaning.

Note: Do not run more than two Deep Cleanings in a row, as this consumes a significant amount of ink and can overflow the waste ink pad.

3. Allow the Printer to Rest

If the built-in cleanings do not work immediately, turn off the printer and let it sit for 24 hours. This allows any fresh ink pumped into the head during the cleaning cycle to naturally dissolve and soften the dried ink clogs overnight. Print another nozzle check the following day.

4. Manual Print Head Flush (Advanced)

If the software cleaning fails completely, the print head has a physical blockage that the internal vacuum pump cannot clear.

• You can remove the print head by lifting the black locking lever next to where the ink clips in.

• Carefully clean the bottom nozzle plate by gently resting it against a warm, damp, lint-free paper towel to draw out stuck ink, or use a specialized Print Head Cleaning Kit with a syringe to push cleaning solution directly through the black nozzle ports.