Black smudging or toner rubbing off

Likely causes and fixes

1. 1. The media-type setting in the driver or on the device does not match the paper actually loaded, so the fuser does not apply the correct heat and pressure for that paper.

   1. Open the printer driver's preferences and confirm the media type matches the loaded paper.

      Source: Toner rubs off the paper

   2. If it already matches, enable the driver's toner-fixing / 'Improve Print Output' option.

      Source: Toner rubs off the paper

   3. If smudging continues, set the media type to a thicker-paper setting to increase fuser heat and pressure.

      Source: Toner rubs off the paper

2. 2. The fuser's nip-release levers are not fully locked, so the fuser cannot apply correct pressure and toner does not bond to the page.

   1. Hazard: The fuser area is very hot during and shortly after printing; wait until it has cooled to avoid burns.

      Power off the printer and let it cool before opening the rear cover.

      Source: Toner Smears or Rubs Off Printed Output

   2. Caution: This step can be done wrong in a way that is costly or hard to undo, including voiding your warranty. Check your model's manual before proceeding.

      Push both fuser release levers fully into the locked/up position.

      Source: Toner Smears or Rubs Off Printed Output

   3. Reprint a test page to confirm the fusing improves.

      Source: Toner Smears or Rubs Off Printed Output

3. 3. The printer is operating outside its specified temperature or humidity range, which reduces fusing performance.

   1. Relocate the printer to a room within its specified operating temperature and humidity range, or let it acclimate before printing.

      Source: Toner Smears or Rubs Off Printed Output

4. 4. After settings, levers, and environment are ruled out, the fuser roller assembly itself is worn or failing and does not reach or hold proper fusing temperature.

   1. Hazard: The fuser can cause severe burns; wait for the manufacturer-recommended cooldown time before handling it.

      Power off and allow the printer to cool fully before opening it.

      Source: Toner Smears or Rubs Off Printed Output

   2. Hazard: The component may still retain heat.

      Remove and reseat the fuser unit following the device's manual.

      Source: Toner Smears or Rubs Off Printed Output

   3. Hazard: This step carries a risk of injury or permanent damage. Power the printer off, let it cool, and check your model's manual before opening any panel.

      If reseating does not help, replace the fuser unit with a new or compatible one.

      Source: Toner Smears or Rubs Off Printed Output