Microwave door will not open or is very hard to open after cooking.
Safety Warning
This repair may involve working with high voltage components or water connections. Always unplug the appliance before removing any panels.
If you are not confident in your ability to perform this repair safely, we strongly recommend contacting a professional technician.
Possible Causes
How to Fix / Troubleshooting
Safety: Turn off and unplug the microwave before attempting to free a stuck door. Do not use excessive force that could break the door or hinges.
User-level steps:
- 1. Allow cooling: Let the unit cool for several minutes; thermal expansion can sometimes make the door tighter immediately after cooking.
- 2. Gentle pressure: Press the door release button (or pull handle) while gently pushing inward on the door, then pulling outward. Do not jerk or twist.
- 3. Clean latch area: Once open, inspect and clean the latch hooks and frame with a damp cloth to remove grease or dried food.
- 4. Test operation: Open and close the door several times to confirm smooth operation.
If the door remains stuck or the release button feels loose or jammed, the door latch or release lever may be broken and should be replaced by a technician. Do not pry the door open with tools, as this can damage the safety shielding.
Repair Difficulty
Required Part
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