How to Fix HP Printer Printing Wrong Paper Size?

If your HP printer is printing on the wrong paper size, it can be frustrating and affect the quality of your documents. This issue often occurs due to incorrect printer settings, outdated drivers, or paper misalignment.

What Causes HP Printer to Print Wrong Paper Size?

Several factors can lead to your HP printer printing on the wrong paper size:

Incorrect printer settings: The paper size set in the printer driver may not match the paper loaded in the tray.
Outdated or incompatible drivers: Old drivers can cause miscommunication between your computer and printer.
Paper tray misalignment: If the paper is not properly aligned in the tray, it may trigger incorrect paper detection.
Software glitches: Temporary errors in the HP printing software can affect paper size selection.

Step 1: Check Paper Settings in Printer Driver

Open the document you want to print.
Go to File > Print and select your HP printer.
Click on Printer Properties or Preferences.
Under Paper/Quality or Paper Size, select the correct paper size.
Click OK and try printing again.

Tip: Always match the paper size selected in the driver with the actual paper loaded in the printer tray.

Step 2: Inspect Paper Tray and Paper Alignment

Remove the paper tray from the printer.
Adjust the paper guides to fit the paper size correctly.
Make sure the paper stack is not too tight or too loose.
Reinsert the tray and try printing.

Proper alignment prevents the printer from detecting the wrong paper size.

Step 3: Update HP Printer Drivers

Outdated drivers can cause printing errors, including wrong paper size:

Visit HP Support on your computer.
Download the latest driver for your printer model.
Install the driver and restart your computer.
Try printing the document again.

Keeping your drivers updated ensures compatibility and smooth printing.

Step 4: Use HP Smart App for Troubleshooting

The HP Smart app helps manage printer settings and troubleshoot issues:

Open the HP Smart app on your computer or mobile device.
Select your printer and go to Printer Settings.
Check the Paper Size configuration.
Run the Print Quality Diagnostic to detect any issues.

The app also provides step-by-step troubleshooting for other common errors.

Step 5: Reset the Printer

A printer reset can resolve temporary glitches affecting paper size detection:

Turn off your HP printer and unplug it from the power source.
Wait for 60 seconds, then plug it back in.
Turn on the printer and check if the issue is resolved.

Step 6: Contact HP Customer Support

If the problem persists after following the steps above, contact HP Customer Support:

Use the HP Support website or HP Smart app to chat with a technician.
Explain the issue, including your printer model and error details.
The support team can provide remote assistance, firmware updates, or service options.

Tips to Prevent Paper Size Issues in HP Printers

Always select the correct paper size before printing.
Keep your printer drivers and HP Smart app updated.
Avoid mixing different paper sizes in the same tray.
Regularly clean and maintain the printer to prevent misfeeds.

Conclusion

Fixing an HP printer that prints the wrong paper size is straightforward when you follow the correct steps. Check printer settings, ensure proper paper alignment, update drivers, use HP Smart app troubleshooting, and reset the printer if needed. By following this guide, you can maintain accurate printing and extend the lifespan of your HP printer.