How Much Does Microwave Repair Cost in 2025?

Typical Range:

$10 - $380

Find out how much your project will cost.

Cost data is based on research by HomeAdvisor.

Updated November 18, 2024

Written by HomeAdvisor.

Highlights:

  • Fixing a microwave costs an average of $175 with parts and labor included, though some fixes could be as little as $10 or as much as $380.

  • The cost of microwave repair depends on the component that must be replaced—replacing a magnetron is much more expensive than fixing a broken handle, for instance.

  • Microwave repair also varies depending on whether you have a built-in, over-the-range appliance, or a standalone countertop unit.

  • Labor for microwave repair costs between $50 and $125 per hour, with an average minimum service fee between $75 and $130.

  • You can lower microwave repair costs by keeping your microwave clean, ruling out simple issues before calling a professional, and combining a microwave repair with another appliance repair job.

Fixing a microwave costs around $175 for parts and labor, although it can be as little as $10 or as much as $380, depending on the issue that needs to be fixed. The actual cost of your microwave repair will depend on the brand and model of your appliance, such as if it's a built-in appliance, as well as the required repair type. Depending on your initial investment, you may find it less costly to replace your unit.

Average Microwave Repair Costs

Average CostHigh CostLow Cost
$175$380$10
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Microwave Repair Cost Factors

Several factors will determine the actual cost of repairing a microwave. In particular, consider the cost of the part that needs to be repaired, the cost of fixing specific issues, and the cost of replacing magnetrons and diodes, two of the most important heating components of a microwave.

Cost by Part

Your microwave repair costs will vary greatly depending on the type of repair it needs. Microwaves are complex appliances with many essential parts, and the price to repair or replace specific components will vary.

Microwave PartAverage Price Range
Magnetron $100–$300
Diode $80–$170
Control Board $120–$380
Turntable $25–$130
Turntable Motor $90–$200
Door Assembly $170–$330
Touchpad $120–$330
Door Switch $80–$170
Handle $10–$70
Fuse $75–$165 
Exhaust Fan Motor $130–$330
Light Bulb $80–$180
Power Cord $80–$180
Transformer $100–$300
Thermostat $80–$170

Control Board

If your microwave is running without heating, continuously running with the door closed, or switching off shortly after being turned on, it could indicate an issue with the appliance’s control board. This is a more expensive part to replace at $120 to $380.

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 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 $90 to $200. If it isn't turning and there's nothing wrong with the door switch, you may need to replace your motor. Before diving into a motor repair, check that the turntable isn't cracked and that the roller guide is intact, as this is a much easier and less expensive repair.

Door Assembly

If you have a crack in your glass door, or if the door won’t open or close, you’ll need to replace the door assembly. Replacing this component usually ranges in price from $170 to $330. 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.

Touchpad

If your microwave touchpad is no longer functioning correctly, you can expect to pay around $120 to $330, depending on the severity of the issue. Common signs of a touchpad issue include a microwave not turning on, continuing to run when the timer stops, or switching off after turning on. 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 $80 to $175 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.

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 $75 to $165 to pay for a local appliance repair pro to replace a blown microwave fuse. Blown fuses are relatively common in electronics used for a long time.

Exhaust Fan Motor

If you’re hearing unusual noises from your microwave or notice that the fan parts and filter are getting clogged by grime, you may need to replace the exhaust fan motor. This can cost anywhere from $130 to $330.

Light Bulb

If your microwave light doesn’t turn on when it’s in use, you may have a control board issue. Alternatively, you may need to simply change the light bulb. Having a bulb replaced in your microwave usually costs $80 to $180.

Power Cord

If your microwave simply won’t turn on, it could be a sign of a faulty power cable. It usually costs about $80 to $180 to replace a microwave’s power cord.

Transformer

Your microwave might need a new transformer if it’s running without heating, sparking during use, switching off shortly after turning on, or causing smoke or a burning smell when used. Replacing the transformer usually costs between $100 and $300.

Thermostat

If your microwave shuts off right after turning it on, or if you notice the exhaust fan has failed, it could actually be a sign of a faulty thermostat in the unit. Replacing a microwave thermostat costs between $80 and $170.

Cost by Issue

If you’re not sure what repair your microwave needs, it’s sometimes easier to start with the issue you noticed and diagnose the problem from there. 

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 $80 to $170 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 $80 to $170, including both the part and the cost to hire an electrician or appliance repair pro.

Microwave Not Heating

If your microwave isn’t heating, the repair can cost around $80 to $380. It might require a simpler fix, like repairing a faulty diode or bad door switch, or a more complex repair, such as 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.

Cost of Magnetron Replacement

The magnetron in your microwave is the power source for your appliance. Replacing it costs approximately $100 to $300. A microwave magnetron price is around $50 to $100, and labor is about $50 to $125. 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 between $80 and $170, including the cost of the part and 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. 

Microwave Type

The price of microwave repair can vary depending on whether you have a built-in/over-the-range unit or a standalone countertop model. An appliance repair cost estimator can help you determine the price of repairing your specific microwave. Generally, a countertop model is easier to access and fix and will, therefore, be less expensive than a built-in microwave.

Microwave TypeAverage Repair Cost
Built-In/Over-the-Range

$130–$330

Countertop

$80–$180

Labor

Microwave repair costs are similar to appliance installation costs, with most professionals charging between $50 and $125 per hour. Since most microwave repairs are fairly quick, you’ll often only have to pay their minimum service fee for the first hour of work, which averages between $70 and $130.

Microwave Repair vs. Replacement

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, which are quite high compared to average appliance prices.

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

Budgeting for Microwave Repairs

How do you lower the cost of getting your microwave fixed? Here are a few ideas to help you save money on microwave repairs:

  • Before calling a professional, rule out simple, DIY-friendly microwave fixes, such as a clogged filter, blown fuse, or even a faulty electrical outlet.

  • Ask your microwave repair pro for tips on maintaining your microwave to prevent future issues from arising.

  • Clean your microwave often to prevent grime and grease from building up in the components.

  • If you have a professional in your home to service a different appliance, ask them to look at your microwave at the same time—this is often less expensive than calling a technician out specifically for your microwave.

How HomeAdvisor Gets Its Cost Data

No place is more important than your home, which is why HomeAdvisor connects homeowners with local pros to transform their houses into homes they love. To help homeowners prepare for their next project, HomeAdvisor provides readers with accurate cost data and follows strict editorial guidelines. After a project is complete, we survey real customers about the costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many years does a microwave last?

Microwaves usually last around seven to 10 years. If you'd like to make sure your microwave lasts as long as possible, you should clean it regularly, only use microwave-safe containers (avoid all metals and stainless steel mugs), shut the door gently, and never run it while it's empty.

What causes a magnetron to fail in a microwave?

The common reasons why a magnetron fails in a microwave include damaged magnets, burned terminals, damaged antenna, and loose connections. When a microwave becomes overheated, it can damage the magnets and antenna. Also, terminals can burn if the insulator is damaged. And finally, loose connections can occur over time.

What causes a microwave diode to go bad?

There are different reasons why a microwave's diode goes bad. For one, it can be short. Or it might fail after repeated use of the appliance over time. You'll notice that something is wrong because you may hear a loud humming sound or smell burning. In some cases, the actual diode may be physically split in half.

What are the signs that a microwave is going bad?

There are several signs that a microwave is going bad, including no heat when the microwave is running, taking longer than normal to heat food, sparks when running, strange sounds during use, burning smell or smoke during use, continuing to run when the door is open, failing touchpad, or a door that won’t properly shut. Also, if your unit is more than 10 years old, it will likely need to be replaced soon.

Is it worth it to repair a microwave?

It's likely worthwhile to repair your microwave rather than replace it if you have a high-end built-in appliance or if the repairs cost less than a new replacement. It's best to research the cost of an appliance installation before making a decision.

However, if your appliance is over 10 years old, it's better to invest in a brand-new machine since it's already nearing the end of its life span. If you decide to buy a new microwave, consider getting appliance refinishing projects done at the same time to give your kitchen look a refresh.