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PrintDiag

Print quality

Ghosting or repeating marks

Repeat interval identifies the failing roller — a real diagnostic technique.

Likely causes and fixes

  1. 1. The imaging drum is not fully cleaned or discharged between print cycles, so residual toner or a damaged spot re-deposits a faint image once per drum rotation.

    1. From the control panel, print the Repeating Defects support page.

      Source: Repeating Marks, Spots, Lines, or Voids

    2. Mark two identical defects on the page and measure the gap between them in millimeters with a ruler.

      Source: Repeating Marks, Spots, Lines, or Voids

    3. Compare the measured interval against the model's defect-spacing chart to identify the failing part.

      Source: Repeating Marks, Spots, Lines, or Voids

    4. 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.

      If the interval matches the drum's circumference, replace the drum cartridge.

      Source: Repeating Marks, Spots, Lines, or Voids

  2. 2. A worn or contaminated fuser roller does not release toner cleanly, redepositing a faint duplicate image at the roller's own circumference.

    1. Print and measure the repeating-defects test page as above.

      Source: Print the Test Print Pages, Measure the Repeating Defects

    2. Compare the measured interval to the fuser row in the model's defect-spacing chart.

      Source: Print the Test Print Pages, Measure the Repeating Defects

    3. Hazard: The fuser reaches very high temperatures during operation and can cause burns; wait for a full cooldown before touching it.

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

      Source: Print the Test Print Pages, Measure the Repeating Defects

    4. Hazard: Handle only once fully cooled.

      Replace the fuser following the model's service procedure.

      Source: Print the Test Print Pages, Measure the Repeating Defects

  3. 3. A damaged transfer roller can also produce a periodic faint mark, at a shorter repeat interval than the drum or fuser.

    1. Measure and compare the interval to the transfer-roller value on the chart.

      Source: Print the Test Print Pages, Measure the Repeating Defects

    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.

      Replace the transfer roller supply item if it matches.

      Source: Print the Test Print Pages, Measure the Repeating Defects

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