On macOS, printer problems are usually caused by an outdated printer software package, a paused queue, or the wrong printer selected as default.

Quick Answer

Reset the printing system in System Settings, then re-add the printer and confirm it's set as default.

On This Page
  1. Common Reasons This Happens
  2. Quick Checks Before Troubleshooting
  3. 1. Check the Print Queue
  4. 2. Reset the Printing System
  5. 3. Re-Add the Printer
  6. 4. Update Printer Software
  7. 5. Set the Correct Default Printer
  8. What If It's Still Not Fixed?
  9. Frequently Asked Questions

Common Reasons my printer not working on mac

An outdated printer software package

macOS updates can leave older printer software out of sync.

A paused print queue

macOS pauses print queues after a single failed job, silently blocking further printing.

The wrong default printer

Multiple installed printers can lead to jobs being sent to the wrong device.

Quick Checks Before Troubleshooting

Before you start:
  • Open System Settings > Printers & Scanners and check the printer's status.
  • Confirm the correct printer is selected as default at the bottom of that screen.

1. Check the Print Queue

1

Click your printer in System Settings, open the queue, and resume or cancel any stuck jobs.

2. Reset the Printing System

2

Right-click within the printer list and choose "Reset printing system" to clear corrupted configurations.

3. Re-Add the Printer

3

Click the + button to search for and add the printer again after the reset.

4. Update Printer Software

4

Check Software Update or the manufacturer's site for the latest macOS-compatible printer software.

5. Set the Correct Default Printer

5

Confirm the intended device is selected in the "Default printer" dropdown.

What If It's Still Not Fixed?

If you've worked through every step above and the problem continues, it's worth checking a nearby cause rather than repeating the same steps. The guides below cover the most common related issues.

Still stuck? Try describing the problem in your own words using the search bar — different symptoms of the same root cause are often covered on a related page.

Frequently Asked Questions

It removes all installed printers and their saved settings, giving you a clean slate to re-add them without old corrupted configuration.

People Also Ask

  • Remove the cartridge, check for tape covering the contact chip, wipe the contacts gently, and reinsert it firmly. Read the full guide →
  • Run a printhead cleaning cycle, switch the print quality setting from "Draft" to "Normal" or "High," and check ink levels. Read the full guide →
  • Clear the spooler folder of temporary files, then update or reinstall the printer driver, which is the most common cause of repeated crashes. Read the full guide →
  • Open every access panel and check carefully for small torn paper fragments, then power cycle the printer to reset the jam sensor. Read the full guide →

Related Guides

Why Is My Printer Offline on Mac? Why Does My Printer Say Driver Unavailable? Why Is My Printer Not Connecting to WiFi?