Microwave repair cost: fix or replace?

What microwave repairs cost by part

These are Angi’s 2026 national ranges for common repairs. They’re estimates, not quotes (Angi).

• Magnetron (the part that heats food): $100 to $250
• Control panel or keypad: $100 to $200
• Turntable motor: $80 to $150
• Door switch: $75 to $150
• Light bulb or fan: $50 to $120

Costs by microwave type

Countertop microwaves are the cheapest to fix, at about $75 to $200. Over-the-range models run $100 to $300, and built-in and drawer models $150 to $400, because they take more time to remove and reinstall (Angi).

Many companies charge a diagnosis fee, which is sometimes waived if you go ahead with the repair. Emergency, evening and weekend calls usually cost extra (Angi).

Repair or replace?

Angi says microwaves typically last about 7 to 10 years. Repair usually makes sense when the unit is under five years old and in good shape. Replace it when it’s near the end of its life, has had repeated problems or the repair costs about half the price of a new one (Angi).

Safety first

• Don’t open it up yourself. Angi warns that the magnetron, door switches and other electrical parts carry high-voltage risk, and DIY work can void a warranty (Angi).
• Watch the door. FDA says a microwave in good condition won’t leak energy, but damage to the door hinges, latches or seals can. Don’t use one if the door doesn’t close firmly, and stop using it if it keeps running with the door open (FDA).
• Plug it in right. USFA says to plug major appliances directly into a wall outlet, not an extension cord (USFA).
• Check recalls. Search the CPSC recall list for your brand and model before you pay for a fix.

How to pay less

• Check the warranty first. Manufacturer warranties often cover parts and labor for one to two years. Keep your receipt handy (Angi).
• Bundle repairs. If another appliance needs work, ask about a package price for doing both on one visit (Angi).

Would a home warranty help with the next microwave bill?

A home warranty is a service contract that helps pay to repair or replace some home systems and appliances. Know these numbers before you buy:

• Price. The DC Attorney General says a basic home warranty costs $500 a year or more (DC Attorney General). NerdWallet’s average was about $876 a year (NerdWallet).
• Service fee. You usually pay a fee for each repair visit, typically $75 or more (DC Attorney General). NerdWallet found an average of about $108 (NerdWallet).
• Is the item covered? Some plans exclude kitchen appliances, water heaters, furnaces and other major appliances, or charge extra to cover them (DC Attorney General).
• Caps and exclusions. Claims can be capped. Contracts can exclude wear and tear, manufacturer defects and problems from skipped maintenance. The company may repair rather than replace, and may pick the contractor (DC Attorney General).

Many microwave repairs cost less than a year of a home warranty plan (DC Attorney General), so a plan makes more sense if it also covers other aging appliances. Don’t count on a brand-new plan to pay for something that’s already broken; read when coverage starts and what it excludes. See our home warranty cost guide.