HP Error 60.02 — What It Means & How to Fix It
Updated July 2026 · Independent PrinterCare USA support guide
Error 60.02 on HP LaserJet printers is frustrating because it stops your entire workflow—the printer won't recognize that Tray 2 is properly installed or able to lift paper to the pickup rollers. This error typically appears on LaserJet Pro, Enterprise, and M-series models when the lift mechanism detects a mechanical jam or electrical fault during startup or mid-print.
The good news is that most users can resolve this issue themselves by following a few systematic checks. If those don't work, a qualified technician can diagnose and repair the lift assembly, often for around $49 in remote troubleshooting costs plus parts if needed.
How to fix it — step by step
- Power cycle the entire printer. Unplug the power cable from the back of the printer and wait exactly 30 seconds—this clears the printer's memory of any sensor errors. Plug the power cable back in securely and press the power button to restart the printer. Allow the printer to complete its full startup sequence, which typically takes one to two minutes.
- Remove and reseat Tray 2 completely. Open the printer access door and grasp Tray 2 by both side handles, then pull the tray straight out until it stops. Look inside the tray cavity for any visible paper scraps, plastic fragments, or debris that might block the lift mechanism. Slide the tray back in firmly until you hear or feel it click into place, ensuring it is flush with the printer body.
- Inspect the tray lift assembly for obstructions. With Tray 2 removed, use a flashlight to look down into the tray cavity and examine the metal lift arms and gears beneath where the tray sits. Remove any crumpled paper, toner dust, or foreign objects you can safely reach with tweezers or a soft brush. Do not force anything or attempt to move the lift mechanism by hand, as this can damage the motor.
- Clean the tray sensor contacts. Locate the small metal or plastic sensor tab on the left and right sides of Tray 2—these contacts signal to the printer that the tray is properly installed. Gently wipe these sensor contacts with a dry, lint-free cloth to remove any dust or toner buildup. Reinstall the tray and perform another power cycle to see if the sensor now registers correctly.
- Check the lift motor connector inside the printer. If you are comfortable opening the printer further, locate the electrical connector that feeds power to the Tray 2 lift motor, typically positioned near the left side of the tray bay. Disconnect and reconnect this white or gray plastic connector firmly—a loose connection is a common cause of the 60.02 error. Power the printer back on and test whether the error clears.
- Run the printer's built-in diagnostics. On the printer's main display panel, navigate to Settings or Diagnostics, then select Tray Diagnostics or Service Diagnostics if available. Run the tray lift test and note any specific error codes or messages that appear beyond 60.02. This information helps determine whether the lift motor itself is failing electrically or mechanically.
- Check for firmware or driver conflicts on your computer. On Windows 11 or macOS, open the printer settings and verify that your printer driver is current by visiting the HP support website. An outdated driver can sometimes cause communication errors that trigger false hardware warnings. Update the driver if a newer version is available, then restart both the printer and your computer.
- Contact support or schedule a technician if steps above do not resolve the issue. If error 60.02 persists after all previous steps, the lift motor assembly or its associated circuitry has likely failed and requires professional replacement. Many qualified repair services offer remote diagnostic calls for around $49, during which a technician can confirm the fault and provide a parts and labor estimate.
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Frequently asked questions
Does error 60.02 mean my printer is permanently broken?
No, error 60.02 does not automatically mean the printer is broken beyond repair. Many cases are caused by loose connections, sensor debris, or stuck paper that you can fix yourself in minutes. Even if the lift motor has failed, replacement motors are available at reasonable cost and can be installed by a technician in under an hour.
Can I use the other trays while Tray 2 has the 60.02 error?
Most HP LaserJet models allow you to continue using Tray 1 and any optional higher trays even when Tray 2 shows an error, though some enterprise models will lock all trays as a safety measure. Check your printer's user manual or try printing from an alternative tray to confirm. However, you should resolve the error promptly to restore full functionality.
Why does my printer show 60.02 every time I turn it on?
If the error appears immediately after startup, the lift sensor is likely detecting a permanent obstruction or the tray is not fully inserted. Remove the tray, clean the sensor contacts, and ensure the tray clicks firmly into position before powering on again. If the error still appears without the tray installed, the sensor or lift motor wiring may be faulty and needs professional diagnosis.
Is there a way to bypass error 60.02 temporarily without fixing the tray?
You cannot safely bypass error 60.02 on an HP LaserJet because the printer will not function with Tray 2 in an unsafe state. The error is designed to prevent paper jams and mechanical damage. Instead, focus on the troubleshooting steps provided, or disable Tray 2 in your printer settings if you do not need it and plan to schedule professional service.