Installing the Kyocera TK-1150/1160/1170 Toner (ECOSYS)

If your Kyocera ECOSYS keeps asking for toner right after you've changed it, it's almost always because the printer hasn't read the new cartridge's chip yet: the counter hasn't reset. The good news is that on Kyocera machines this reset is automatic — the chip does it when you install it, with no odd button combinations.

First things first: our toner already has a new chip and resets itself

Unlike other brands, Kyocera ECOSYS printers don't have a "manual reset" of the toner counter using key sequences. The printer reads the cartridge chip, and that's that. That's why all our compatible toners come with a brand-new factory chip: in the vast majority of cases, as soon as you install it and close the cover, the printer detects it and the warning disappears. There's nothing else to do.

• Compatible Kyocera TK1170 toner · 7,200 pages — €11.98 for the M2040dn, M2540dn/dw and M2640idw. That comes to around 0.17 cents per page.
• Compatible Kyocera TK1160 toner · 7,200 pages — €9.98 for the P2040dn and P2040dw. About 0.14 cents per page, among the cheapest on the market.
• Compatible Kyocera TK1150 toner · 3,000 pages — €8.99 for the M2135dn, M2635dn, M2735dw and P2235dn/dw.

Each model has its own reference: they aren't interchangeable, even though they look identical. The chip is coded for its own family. If you're unsure which one you need, check the label on the old cartridge or your printer's model.

How do you install toner in a Kyocera ECOSYS step by step?

On Kyocera machines the toner cartridge sits loose, on top of the developer unit — it doesn't come out together with the drum as on other brands. It's a clean, one-minute swap:

• Open the top cover (and the front one on the M-series multifunction models) to reach the toner container.
• Release the toner lock lever, usually by pushing it to the left.
• Remove the old cartridge by pulling it upwards carefully. Put it in the bag from the new one so you don't make a mess.
• Shake the new toner about 5–10 times horizontally to spread the powder evenly inside.
• Remove the seal or protective tape if your model has one.
• Fit the new cartridge by lining it up in its slot and pressing firmly until you hear the click. Push the lock lever back down.
• Close the covers. The printer will run a short charging cycle and the warning should clear on its own.

If you'd like to see it in more detail, we have a general guide on how to install a toner step by step without damaging it that works for any brand.

What if it still says "Replace toner" or "Add toner"?

Let's be honest: on Kyocera this happens very rarely, and it's almost never fixed with a button sequence (those tricks belong to other brands). If the warning won't go away, it's usually a chip-reading problem, not the toner itself. Before anything else, try this in order:

• Turn the printer off, wait 15 seconds and switch it back on. Many warnings clear with a cold restart.
• Reseat the cartridge. Open it up, take out the toner, check that the chip (the little gold plate) is clean and properly positioned, and click it back into place.
• Check the chip contacts in case they have dust or any residue; wipe them with a dry cloth.

The exact menu path or the specific warning varies by model (a P2040dn without a screen isn't the same as a touchscreen M2640idw). That's why we won't give you a "magic" combination that may not even exist on your machine. If it still won't recognise it after these steps, we have a dedicated article on what to do when your printer doesn't recognise compatible toner — and if your model behaves differently, write to us and we'll help with your specific case.

Is it the toner or the drum?

It's worth telling them apart. If what you're seeing are lines, repeated marks or a greyish background even with a new toner, or a drum warning, then it isn't the cartridge: it's the drum unit, a separate, long-lasting part on these ECOSYS machines. The toner is changed often; the drum, very occasionally. If you think it's the drum, let us know and we'll confirm the correct reference for your model before you buy anything.

Is the compatible worth it compared with the original?

The numbers speak for themselves. A compatible TK1160 delivers the same 7,200 ISO pages as the original for a fraction of the price, with ISO 9001 certification. For high volumes, the TK1170 also gives 7,200 pages. And if you have an FS-1025MFP, FS-1060DN or FS-1125MFP, the compatible TK1120 at €7.98 has you covered.

You'll find the whole Kyocera range and plenty more in our collection of best-selling compatible toner and ink. And if you want the reference rundown for this family, here's the guide to compatible Kyocera TK-1150/1160/1170 toner for ECOSYS.

Frequently asked questions