HP Printer Error Code 32 — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

Error 32 on an HP printer means the printer received print data it cannot format correctly. This is usually caused by a mismatch between the printer language settings and the data being sent. Changing the printer language setting or updating the driver typically resolves it.

Affected Models

HP LaserJet 4
HP LaserJet 4 Plus
HP LaserJet 4000 Series
HP LaserJet 5000 Series
HP LaserJet IIISi

Common Causes

The print job was sent in PCL format but the printer is set to PostScript mode only
The print job was sent in PostScript format but the printer is set to PCL mode only
The printer driver on the computer is sending data in an unsupported format
A corrupted or damaged print driver is generating malformed print data
The printer's personality (language) setting was accidentally changed

How to Fix It

At the printer's control panel, navigate to the Configuration Menu and look for a setting called 'Personality' or 'PDL' or 'Printer Language'.

Set this to 'Auto' if available — this allows the printer to automatically detect and use the correct format.
On your computer, open the print dialog. Select your HP printer and open 'Printer Properties' or 'Preferences'.

Look for a language or personality setting in the advanced tab and make sure it matches what the printer expects.
Uninstall the current HP printer driver from your computer completely. Then download the latest driver from hp.com and reinstall it.

Use HP's full software and driver package, not just the basic driver — it includes correct language settings by default.
Print a configuration page from the printer's control panel to confirm current language settings.

The configuration page lists the active printer language — compare it to what your computer's driver is set to use.
If printing from a specific application, try printing a different simple document from Notepad to test if the issue is application-specific.

If Notepad prints fine but your other app does not, the problem is in how that app formats its print output.

When to Call a Professional

Error 32 is almost always a software or settings issue and does not require a technician. If reinstalling the printer driver and correcting the language settings does not resolve the error, contact HP support for further troubleshooting guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is PCL and PostScript?

PCL (Printer Command Language) and PostScript are two different languages that computers use to describe pages to a printer. HP invented PCL and it is used by most Windows applications. PostScript was developed by Adobe and is common in design and publishing workflows. Both are perfectly valid — they just need to match on both ends.

How do I know which language my HP printer uses?

Print a configuration page from the printer's menu. Look for 'Printer Personality' or 'PDL' on that page. It will say PCL, PostScript, or Auto. Auto is the best setting for most home and office users.

Can error 32 cause any permanent damage?

No. Error 32 is purely a software communication issue. The printer simply rejects the misformatted print job without printing anything. Once the language settings are aligned, the printer will work perfectly again.