HP Printer Error Code 60 — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

Error 60 means the paper tray lift motor has failed or is stuck. This motor raises the paper stack up to the pickup rollers so paper can be fed. The printer cannot pick up paper and will not print until this is resolved.

Affected Models

HP LaserJet 4100 Series
HP LaserJet 4200 Series
HP LaserJet 4300 Series
HP LaserJet 4250 Series
HP LaserJet 4350 Series

Common Causes

The paper tray is overloaded with too much paper
The paper in the tray is jammed, crumpled, or not stacked neatly
The tray lift motor has worn out or is mechanically stuck
Debris or a torn piece of paper is blocking the tray lift mechanism
The paper tray itself is damaged and preventing the lift plate from moving freely

How to Fix It

Remove the paper tray completely from the printer. Do not just pull it out partway.

Pull the tray all the way out until it releases from the printer.
Remove all the paper. Look at the bottom of the tray for scraps, torn pieces, or debris.

Even a small piece of torn paper can jam the lift plate.
Check that the lift plate at the bottom of the tray moves freely up and down. Press it down and release it.

It should spring back up smoothly. If it is stuck, something is blocking the mechanism.
Reload the paper tray with a fresh stack of paper. Do not exceed the fill line marked on the tray.

HP recommends filling to no more than 80% capacity for reliable feeding.
Slide the tray firmly back into the printer. Power the printer off and on, then try printing.

If the error returns immediately, the lift motor itself may need to be replaced.

When to Call a Professional

If cleaning and reloading the tray does not fix error 60, the lift motor may need replacement. This is a moderate repair that involves partially disassembling the tray area. Expect to pay $80 to $180 for parts and labor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does error 60 mean the printer is broken for good?

Not necessarily. Often it is just an overloaded or jammed tray. If removing and reloading the tray fixes it, you are good to go. Only if the lift motor itself has failed does this require a repair.

My tray looks fine but I still get error 60. What should I try?

Try a different paper tray if your printer has multiple trays. Also check the area inside the printer where the tray slides in — look for stuck paper. If another tray works fine, the original tray's lift mechanism is likely worn out.

Can using the wrong paper type cause error 60?

Yes. Heavy cardstock or damp paper can be harder for the lift mechanism to handle. Stick to paper weights recommended in your printer's manual. Usually 60 to 90 gsm bond paper works best.