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Poor Copy Quality — Streaks, Lines, and Faded Copies on Multifunction Printer

Informationalquality

Overview

Fix poor photocopy quality including streaks, lines, faded output, or dirty spots when using the copy function on a multifunction printer.

Key Details

  • Copy quality depends on both the scanner glass condition and the print output quality
  • Streaks usually indicate dirt on the scanner glass or ADF (automatic document feeder) rollers
  • Faded copies may indicate low toner/ink or incorrect copy density settings
  • The copy function scans the original and immediately prints — issues can come from either stage
  • ADF copies often have more quality issues than flatbed copies due to moving document contact

Common Causes

  • Dirty scanner glass or ADF glass strip causing streaks on every copy
  • Low ink or toner levels producing faded or uneven output
  • Copy density/darkness setting too light for the original document
  • ADF rollers dirty or worn, causing skewed or streaked scans

Steps

  1. 1Clean the scanner glass with a lint-free cloth and glass cleaner — check both the flatbed and ADF glass strip
  2. 2Make a test copy using the flatbed (not ADF) to isolate whether the issue is ADF-related
  3. 3Adjust copy density/darkness: increase the setting from the copy menu on the printer panel
  4. 4Check ink/toner levels and replace cartridges if low
  5. 5Clean ADF rollers with a damp lint-free cloth to remove dust and paper residue

Tags

copyqualitystreaksscanner-glassadf

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Frequently Asked Questions

A consistent line in the same position on every copy indicates dirt or a scratch on the scanner glass, specifically the narrow ADF glass strip. Clean both the main flatbed glass and the thin glass strip next to it for ADF scanning.