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Modern Maid Microwave turns on by itself

If your Modern Maid microwave is turning on by itself, first determine whether you are hearing the vent fan or the microwave actually starting a cook cycle. If the touchpad works correctly, a defective main control board is the most likely cause and may need replacement. On an over-the-range model, the vent fan can turn on automatically while stovetop cooking produces heat, then shut off after the microwave cools. If the microwave starts cooking without being commanded, a faulty interlock switch is another likely cause. A damaged or misaligned switch holder can keep the door switches from engaging correctly, while intermittent contact between circuits in the touchpad and control panel, or in the touchpad itself, can also send an unintended start signal. Inspect and test the interlock switches with a multimeter, and replace the switch holder, touchpad, control panel, or main control board as needed. Enter your model number to find the exact replacement part for your Modern Maid microwave. 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 before interior work, so use a qualified technician if you are not familiar with that procedure.

01 - Modern Maid 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 - Modern Maid 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 - Modern Maid 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 - Modern Maid 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 - Modern Maid 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 Modern Maid microwave turn on by itself?
Why does my over-the-range microwave fan turn on by itself?
How do I test the door switches when my microwave turns on by itself?
Should I replace the control board or touchpad first if my microwave starts by itself?
How do I find the correct Modern Maid microwave part for this repair?

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