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KitchenAid Microwave turns on by itself

If your KitchenAid over-the-range microwave turns on by itself, first determine whether the microwave is actually starting a cooking cycle or the vent fan is simply running. During stovetop cooking, a vent fan thermostat can turn the fan on automatically to cool the microwave, then shut it off once the unit cools. If the fan is not the issue, check that the touchpad responds correctly. A faulty main control board is the most likely cause when the touchpad works normally. Next, test the interlock switches with a multimeter. A defective interlock switch can cause the microwave to turn on when the door opens or closes. A damaged or misaligned switch holder may also prevent the door switches from engaging correctly. Less commonly, circuits in the touchpad and control panel can intermittently contact each other, requiring replacement of the touchpad, control panel, or both. Enter your model number to find the exact replacement part for your KitchenAid microwave. If you must remove the outer cabinet, unplug the microwave first. The high-voltage capacitor can store a lethal charge even after unplugging and must be properly discharged before interior work. If you are not familiar with capacitor discharge procedures, use a qualified technician.

01 - KitchenAid Microwave Main Control Board

First, make sure that the touchpad is working properly. If the touchpad is working properly, the main control board is likely at fault. If the control board is defective, replace it.
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Shop all KitchenAid Microwave Main Control Board Parts
Top Solution

02 - Microwave cooling down during stovetop cooking

Most over-the-range microwaves have a vent fan thermostat that will turn the vent fan on automatically to keep the microwave from overheating. The fan will shut off after the microwave cools back down.
Highly Likely

03 - KitchenAid Microwave Interlock Switch

A microwave that turns on by itself can be caused by a malfunctioning interlock switch. You can use a multimeter to test the interlock switches to determine if they are functioning appropriately and replace if necessary.
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Common

04 - KitchenAid Microwave Switch Holder

The microwave switch holder is the component that houses the door switches behind the control panel. If the switch holder is damaged or misaligned, the switches may not be properly engaged which could cause the microwave to turn on by itself. You will need to uninstall the control panel and inspect the switch holder to confirm it is in good condition and secured properly. Replace the switch holder with a new one if necessary.
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Common

05 - KitchenAid Microwave Touchpad and Control Panel

It’s possible that the touchpad and control panel button circuits are coming into contact with each other intermittently which could cause the microwave to turn on by itself. If this happens, the touchpad and control panel will need to be replaced.
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Less Common

06 - KitchenAid Microwave Touchpad

It’s possible that the touchpad button circuits are coming into contact with each other intermittently which could cause the microwave to turn on by itself. If this happens, the touchpad will need to be replaced.
Shop all KitchenAid Microwave Touchpad Parts
Less Common

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my KitchenAid microwave turning on by itself?
Why does my KitchenAid microwave fan turn on by itself?
How do I test a KitchenAid microwave interlock switch?
Can a KitchenAid microwave touchpad or control panel make the microwave turn on by itself?
How do I find the correct KitchenAid microwave part for this repair?

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