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Montgomery Wards Microwave turns on by itself

If your Montgomery Wards microwave turns on by itself, first determine whether only the vent fan starts or the microwave is actually running. On an over-the-range model, the vent fan may turn on automatically while stovetop cooking and shut off after the microwave cools. If the touchpad is working correctly and the microwave starts unexpectedly, the main control board is the most likely cause and may need replacement. A faulty interlock switch can also signal the microwave to operate at the wrong time. Test the primary and secondary interlock switches with a multimeter, then inspect the switch holder behind the control panel for damage or misalignment that prevents the door switches from engaging correctly. Less commonly, button circuits in the touchpad and control panel may intermittently contact each other, requiring replacement of the touchpad, control panel, or both. Before removing the outer cabinet, unplug the microwave and use proper safety procedures. The high-voltage capacitor can store a lethal charge even after unplugging, so it must be properly discharged before interior work. If you are not familiar with capacitor discharge, have a qualified technician handle the repair. Enter your model number to find the exact replacement part for your Montgomery Wards microwave.

01 - Montgomery Wards 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 - Montgomery Wards 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 - Montgomery Wards 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 - Montgomery Wards 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 - Montgomery Wards 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.
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Less Common

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my Montgomery Wards microwave turn on by itself?
Can a microwave turn on by itself because of a door switch?
Could the touchpad or control board be causing my microwave to turn on by itself?
What should I do if my microwave turns on when the door is open?
How do I find the right Montgomery Wards microwave part?

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