HP LaserJet Pro MFP M125ra

The amount of background toner shading becomes unacceptable.

Cause	Solution
The paper might not meet HP specifications.	Use a different paper with a lighter basis weight.
The print-density setting is too high.	Decrease the print-density setting. This decreases the amount of background shading.
Very dry (low humidity) conditions can increase the amount of background shading.	Check the product environment.
The toner cartridge might be defective or low.	Replace the toner cartridge.

Toner smears appear on the paper

Cause	Solution
The paper might not meet HP specifications.	Use paper that meets HP specifications.
If toner smears appear on the leading edge of the paper, the paper guides are dirty, or debris has accumulated in the print path.	Clean the paper guides and the paper path.
The toner cartridge might be defective.	Replace the toner cartridge.
The fuser temperature might be too low.	In the print driver, make sure the appropriate paper type is selected.

The toner smears easily when touched

Cause	Solution
The product is not set to print on the type of paper on which you want to print.	In the print driver, select the Paper/Quality tab and set Paper Type to match the type of paper on which you are printing. Print speed might be slower if you are using heavy paper.
The paper might not meet HP specifications.	Use paper that meets HP specifications.
The paper path might need cleaning.	Clean the paper path.
The power source might be defective.	Plug the product directly into an AC outlet instead of into a power strip.
The fuser temperature might be too low.	In the print driver, make sure the appropriate paper type is selected.

Marks repeatedly appear at even intervals on the page.

Cause	Solution
The product is not set to print on the type of paper on which you want to print.	In the print driver, select the Paper/Quality tab and set Paper Type to match the type of paper on which you are printing. Print speed might be slower if you are using heavy paper.
Internal parts might have toner on them.	The problem typically corrects itself after a few more pages.
The paper path might need cleaning.	Clean the paper path.
A component might be damaged.	Use the repetitive defect ruler table to determine the problem.