I've got a Canon MF 733 CDW laser printer, and I typically buy OEM cartridges from eBay. Initially, everything works fine for about six months without any issues, but then I start to see streaks even though there's still plenty of toner left—probably around 75% full. I hardly use the printer. I've run the printer's cleaning utility, but that hasn't helped. When I check the drum, I find toner buildup on the left and right sides, which I clean off, but it just comes back. When I replace the drum, the print quality returns to normal. I'm curious about what might be causing this problem. Could it be that the OEM cartridges have a short shelf life? Why is the toner only leaking on the sides of the drum? Also, does anyone know if toner cartridges can be recycled? I hate the thought of them ending up in a landfill.
2 Answers
The toners you're buying from eBay might not be true OEM products, which could explain the inconsistencies. Often, third-party cartridges don't perform as well as genuine ones. It sounds like there could be a sealing issue or a malfunction in how the toner is dispensed, especially since you're experiencing streaking mainly on the sides. The buildup could be caused by toner not transferring correctly to the drum due to the cartridge design. Consider checking the manufacturer's advice on compatible cartridges, just to be safe.
Have you checked if your printer has an integrated waste toner receptacle? Sometimes, when this isn't emptied or replaced, it could cause toners to leak back into the drum and create those streaks. If your model doesn't allow for refilling, that could also mean that any residual toner left in the old cartridge affects the new one. Try exploring these factors—it might help you get to the bottom of the problem!
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