How Much Does Microwave Repair Cost?

Microwave Repair Costs

Cost of Magnetron Replacement

The magnetron in your microwave is the power source for your appliance. Replacing it costs approximately $100 to $200. A microwave magnetron price is around $50 to $100, and labor is about $50 to $100. If you decide to buy the part yourself, make sure you buy the right one for your microwave's brand and model.

Diode Replacement Cost

A microwave diode replacement costs around $5 to $25 for the part and around $50 to $100 for the labor. The diode is the semiconductor in microwaves that creates, receives, and switches microwave signals. It can wear down over time, and when this happens, you may notice issues like sparks, loud humming, or a burning smell. If you’re already planning on replacing the magnetron, a pro may replace your diode at the same time.

Other Microwave Repair Expenses

If your microwave has issues unrelated to the heating components, you might be looking at some of the following repairs. The costs range widely between $10 and $400. The below table lists prices for the parts you may need to replace.

Turntable

A new turntable costs around $25 to $130, and replacing it is very easy. You don’t have to worry about removing any hardware, so all you need to do is to find the one that fits your make and model and swap out the old one with the new one.

Turntable Motor

A turntable motor costs around $15 to $100. If it isn't turning and there's nothing wrong with the door switch, you may need to replace your motor. This repair costs around $75 to $300. Before diving into a motor repair, check that the turntable isn't cracked and that the roller guide is intact.

Touchpad

If your microwave touchpad is no longer functioning correctly, you can expect to pay around $100 to $300, depending on the severity of the issue. More straightforward repairs might require work on the control board, while complex issues might call for an entirely new touchpad installation.

Door Switch

A faulty door switch costs around $50 to $100 to fix. In the best-case scenario, the switch may merely need an adjustment. If not, you’ll need to get a replacement. Fixing a faulty door switch is considered a fairly simple repair.

Door Glass

If you have a crack in your glass door, replacing it ranges from $150 to $400, with the material costing around $100 to $300. The actual price varies according to the brand and model of your unit. You may have luck finding a used part, which can drastically lower the price.

Handle

Depending on the brand and model, the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) handle costs anywhere between $10 to $70, with labor being around $50. Replacing the door handle is a simple repair. 

Fuse

Expect to pay around $10 to $15 for the parts. Blown fuses are relatively common in electronics used for a long time. If this is the case, you can expect to pay $50 to $100 for a local appliance repair pro to take care of the issue.

Cost to Repair Common Microwave Issues

Consider these common possibilities if you're unsure what's wrong with your microwave. Whether you're able to narrow down the issue or need help, you can consult a repair pro to get expert insight on your next best steps.

Microwave Running With the Door Open

If your microwave runs with the door open, you're likely looking at a problem with the door switch. This repair costs around $50 to $100 and is urgent because running the appliance with the door is dangerous. Don't use your microwave until after you've had a pro fix the door switch.

Sparks Inside Microwave

The first thing you should do when you notice sparks inside a microwave is to turn it off and unplug it if you can do so safely. Next, check to see if you accidentally left metal in the microwave. It might be a utensil like a spoon or fork or a piece of aluminum foil.

If there’s no metal inside, then you likely need to replace a faulty diode. This will cost around $55 to $130 for both the part and installation.

Microwave Not Heating

If your microwave isn’t heating, the repair can cost around $50 to $400. It might require a simpler fix like repairing a faulty diode or bad door switch, or a more complex repair like a new magnetron.

Microwave Not Spinning

If the turntable isn't spinning, repairs can range between $75 and $300. You may need to fix the turntable motor or roller guide or replace your turntable.

Should You Repair or Replace Your Microwave?

Whether you should repair or replace your microwave will depend on several factors. One is the severity of the repair that's required. If you have a hunch that it's an easier fix—like a diode replacement, door switch repair, a new handle or turntable, or the like—then it'll likely be more cost effective to fix your microwave than to buy a new one.

Secondly, consider your initial investment in the microwave. If it's a particularly higher-end luxury model, it may be more affordable to repair than buy a new one. On the other hand, if you have a model you purchased for a good deal, buying a new microwave may be more cost-effective if the repairs are costly. Examples of intensive repairs include magnetron or touchpad replacements.

If you’re unsure, it’s a good idea to hire a pro to get a diagnosis of the issue.

DIY Microwave Repair vs. Hiring a Pro

You might feel comfortable replacing a turntable or light bulb on your own. But for more advanced repair needs, you’ll want to find a microwave repair company near you. Hiring a professional to repair your microwave costs around $50 to $100 per hour plus parts. This is recommended for repairs like:

• Replacing a magnetron

• Installing a new turntable motor

• Wiring a power cord