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Bosch Microwave turns on by itself

When your Bosch microwave turns on by itself, first determine whether you are hearing the vent fan or the microwave actually starting a cooking cycle. On an over-the-range Bosch microwave, the vent fan may turn on automatically during stovetop cooking when its thermostat senses heat, then shut off after the microwave cools. If the touchpad works properly and the microwave starts without a command, the main control board is the most likely cause and may need replacement. A malfunctioning interlock switch can also activate the microwave unexpectedly, so test the door switches with a multimeter and replace a faulty switch. Next, inspect the switch holder behind the control panel. If it is damaged or misaligned, the door switches may not engage correctly. Less commonly, intermittent contact between circuits in the touchpad and control panel, or within the touchpad itself, can cause this problem. Enter your Bosch microwave model number to find the exact replacement part for your appliance. Any repair that requires opening the outer cabinet must be handled carefully because the high-voltage capacitor can store a lethal charge even after the microwave is unplugged. Proper capacitor discharge is required, and unfamiliar DIYers should use a qualified technician.

01 - Bosch 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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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 - Bosch 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.
Common

04 - Bosch 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.
Common

05 - Bosch 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.
Less Common

06 - Bosch 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.
Less Common

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my Bosch microwave turn on by itself?
Can a Bosch microwave turn on when the door opens?
How do I test a Bosch microwave interlock switch or switch holder?
Could the Bosch microwave touchpad or control board be causing it to turn on by itself?
How do I find the right Bosch microwave part for this repair?

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