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Universal Microwave turns on by itself

If your microwave is turning on by itself, first check whether only the vent fan is running. On an over-the-range microwave, the fan may turn on automatically while stovetop cooking is producing heat, then shut off after the microwave cools. If the microwave starts operating without a cooking command and the touchpad is working properly, the main control board is the most likely cause. A faulty interlock switch can also signal the microwave to start unexpectedly. Inspect the switch holder behind the control panel for damage or misalignment, since it may 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 and control panel or the touchpad alone. These checks may require removing the outer cabinet. Unplug the microwave first, and remember that the high-voltage capacitor stores a lethal charge even after power is disconnected. It must be properly discharged before interior work, and this repair may require a qualified technician if you are not familiar with capacitor discharge procedures. Enter your model number to find the exact main control board, interlock switch, switch holder, or touchpad replacement for your microwave.

01 - Universal 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 - Universal 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 - Universal 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 - Universal 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 - Universal 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 microwave turn on by itself?
Why does my over-the-range microwave fan turn on by itself?
Can a microwave door switch make the microwave turn on by itself?
Could the touchpad or control panel cause a microwave to turn on by itself?
How do I find the right replacement part for a microwave that turns on by itself?

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