How to Replace Toner and Reset Cartridge Chips

Replacing a toner cartridge is a quick and straightforward process, but many users run into issues with chip reset warnings after installing a compatible cartridge. This guide walks you through replacing your toner cartridge and resolving common chip-related error messages.

How to Replace a Toner Cartridge (Step-by-Step)

While the exact steps vary slightly by printer model, the general process is the same for most laser printers:

1. Power off your printer and allow it to cool for a few minutes if it has been running.
2. Open the front or top panel of your printer to access the toner compartment. Refer to your printer manual if you're unsure which panel to open.
3. Remove the old toner cartridge by pulling it straight out or pressing the release tab, depending on your model. Hold it level to avoid spilling residual toner.
4. Unpack the new toner cartridge and remove any protective tape, clips, or packaging. Do not touch the drum or the green/blue roller.
5. Shake the cartridge gently from side to side 5–6 times to distribute the toner evenly inside.
6. Insert the new cartridge into the slot, aligning it with the guides. Push firmly until it clicks into place.
7. Close the panel and power the printer back on.
8. Print a test page to confirm the cartridge is installed correctly and printing cleanly.

Why Is My Printer Showing a Toner Error After Installing a Compatible Cartridge?

Modern laser printers use a small chip on the toner cartridge to communicate with the printer. This chip tracks page count and signals when the cartridge is "empty". When you install a compatible cartridge, the chip may not be recognised immediately, or the printer may display a low-toner or incompatible cartridge warning.

This is normal and does not mean the cartridge is faulty.

How to Reset or Bypass Cartridge Chip Warnings

The reset method varies by printer brand. Here are the most common approaches:

HP Laser Printers

• On most HP LaserJet models, press OK or Continue when the low-toner warning appears to dismiss it and continue printing.
• Some models allow you to disable the "cartridge protection" or "supply policy" setting in the printer menu under Settings > Supply Settings.

Brother Laser Printers

• Open the front cover of the printer.
• Press and hold the Go or OK button for approximately 4 seconds until all LEDs light up or the display changes.
• Close the front cover. The drum or toner counter is now reset.

Canon Laser Printers

• With the printer on, open the front cover.
• Press and hold the Stop/Reset button for approximately 5 seconds.
• Close the cover. The toner counter should reset.

Samsung / Xerox Laser Printers

• Some models require a chip resetter tool (a small device that resets the chip electronically). These are available separately.
• Alternatively, covering the chip contacts with a small piece of tape can bypass the reading on some older models.

Tips for Toner Cartridge Maintenance

• Don't throw away a cartridge at the first low-toner warning — remove it, shake it gently, and reinstall. You can often get an additional 50–100 pages.
• Store spare cartridges in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
• Print regularly — laser toner doesn't dry out like ink, but regular use keeps the drum in good condition.

Shop Toner Cartridges

Browse our full range of toner cartridges for HP, Brother, Canon, Samsung, and more — including OEM and compatible options.

Not sure which toner fits your printer? Read our guide: How to Choose the Right Ink Cartridge for Your Printer.