Ink system failure

Here is a link to an article that give reset information that should clear the "ink system failure" error on your printer.

http://www.ccl-la.com/blog/index.php/hp-photosmart-ink-system-failure-1/

Try the link below. This error is related to air in the lines between the print head and the cartridges. It is quite common and HP are very aware of this.
http://fix-your-printer.blogspot.com/2009/03/ink-system-failure-on-hp-photosmart.html
I hope this helps. Regards GM

Try This :

First check with a new set of orginal HP catridge ; if still it doesn't work then the printer needs to be replaced ; call HP if the printer is in warranty they will do it free of COST ; No. for HP is : 18004746836;

1. Turn the printer off for few minutes then turn it back on
2. Clean ink cartridge
3. Update drivers
4. If nothing works, repace the battery

i had exactly this error message. Rang HP. They said it was a hardware failure, they couldn't fix over phone, would cost 2x cost of new printer to fix, but they offered me 20% discount on new printer if ordered over the phone.

But with some fiddling, problem now resolved. Here's what I did:

- press Red Eye Removal and Print Photos button together
- goes to Mfg Commands -> Enter Special Keys Combo. Press OK
- uaiux Support page (some code) -> click right arrow key until you get to System Configuration Menu - click oK
- should say hardware failure status - click OK
- says hardware failure status: Clear. Press OK to clear
- I clicked OK on this and system reset itself and problem was solved

Reset the printer. Thanks.

Ink system has failed errors can still be cleared.

refer to this link:

Ink system has failed

HP Photosmart C7180 will not accept new '02' yellow ink cartridge and repeatedly states 'printer does not have enough ink to ensure printer health. The empty ink cartridge must be replaced to resume.' This is the 2nd HP '02'yellow I've bought and it continues to say the same.

Look where the ink cartdridge meets the contacts in the holder and clean off any ink with a paper towel dabed with warm water. there may be blockage on the contacts and the printer thinks your using a refurbeshed cartdirdge. newer printer from dell and HP are made to detect different brand cartdridges and wont print if its not there genuine ink( they love getting money for there expensive Ink) this also voids the warranty if they find out you didnt use there ink.

hope this helps.