Quick Answer

The most common reason a Canon PIXMA MG3070S stops printing in color is a clogged print head or an empty/low color cartridge. Run a nozzle check from the printer driver and replace any cartridge showing less than half ink.

Why the PIXMA MG3070S Might Refuse Color

The MG3070S uses two cartridges: a black PG-47 and a color CL-57/CL-57XL. If the color cartridge is low or empty, the printer may default to black-only mode to protect the print head. Another common cause is dried ink in the nozzles, especially if the printer sits unused for weeks. Finally, a software setting (such as 'Print in Grayscale' in the driver) can force monochrome output even when color cartridges are full.

When to Consider a New Cartridge vs. Cleaning

If the color cartridge has been used past its recommended print volume (the MG3070S is rated for 10–80 pages per month), the nozzles may be worn out. Cleaning cycles can revive a clogged head, but they consume ink. If cleaning fails after two attempts, replacement is usually more economical than continued cleaning.

Diagnosis and Fix Steps

  • Symptom: Printer prints black text or grayscale only, even when color is selected in the print dialog.
  • Likely Cause: Empty or low color cartridge; clogged color nozzles; 'Print in Grayscale' enabled in driver settings. Check the ink levels first via the printer's LCD or Canon software.
  • Corrective Action: 1. Open Canon IJ Printer Utility > Maintenance > Nozzle Check. Print the pattern. If color bands are missing or streaky, run Head Cleaning (once or twice). 2. If cleaning fails, replace the color cartridge with a new CL-57 or CL-57XL. 3. Also verify that 'Print in Grayscale' is unchecked in the printer driver's Main tab. After cleaning, print a test page. If color is still absent, replace the cartridge.
  • When to Stop or Choose Another Option: If replacing the color cartridge does not restore color, the print head may be damaged. At that point, consider whether a new printer is more cost-effective than a repair, given the MG3070S's low price point. A new PIXMA MG3070S costs about USD 64, often cheaper than a service visit.

Product Facts

  • PIXMA MG3070S: The PIXMA MG3070S is a compact wireless all-in-one that uses low-cost PG-47 black and CL-57/CL-57XL color cartridges. Because the cartridges are separate, a color issue is almost always isolated to the color cartridge or its nozzles, making diagnosis straightforward.

    PIXMA MG3070S

    PIXMA MG3070S