How to replace LG or Kenmore microwave inner door frame 3213W1A049F

Is the door of your trusty LG or Kenmore microwave showing signs of damage or wear? A bent or broken inner door frame can compromise your microwave’s functionality, but fortunately, replacing it is easier than you think. Stay tuned for our step-by-step guide and a helpful how-to video that’s just below to bring your microwave door back to life!

Is your LG or Kenmore microwave door looking worse for wear? If you notice damage or bending of the inner door frame, it likely needs to be replaced. The inner door frame assembly serves as the backbone of the microwave door. It holds the microwave door together and allows it to open and close correctly. If the screen is damaged or the frame is bent, the door needs to be swapped out with a new one.

Luckily, replacing the inner door frame is an easy DIY fix that can make your microwave look brand new again. Let’s get started!

If you need a replacement inner door frame assembly 3213W1A049F, you can order it here. Looking for more LG or Kenmore microwave parts? Just enter your model number at AppliancePartsPros.com to find them. You can also find a list of LG parts here and Kenmore options on this page.

Watch the full repair here

What you need

• Phillips screwdriver
• Flathead screwdriver
• Putty knives
• Small needle-nose pliers
• Replacement microwave inner door frame assembly
• Rubbing alcohol
• Soft cloth
• Lithium grease
• Replacement door film

Safety precautions

Your safety should always be the top priority when performing any appliance repair.

• Always power off and unplug your microwave or switch off the circuit breaker before you attempt any maintenance or replacement work. This keeps you safe by preventing any risk of electric shock.
• Always unplug the microwave and discharge the high-voltage capacitor before working on it to eliminate the risk of electric shock.
• If the microwave has recently been used, give it plenty of time to cool down before working on it.
• Take your time while working to prevent accidents and personal injuries. Rushing is the enemy of precision.
• Work in a well-lit area so you can clearly see and access microwave parts.
• Keep your workspace free of clutter and other obstacles. Keep children and pets away from the work area.
• Never work on internal parts with wet hands. Make sure the work area is completely dry.
• Check the user manual to see if there are specific installation or safety instructions related to your microwave or replacement part.
• Be gentle when handling or removing parts. Excessive force might damage the microwave or cause personal injury.
• Wear insulated work gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal parts and debris.
• When working with wires, avoid touching any exposed wires or terminals. If you need to touch a wire, use a non-conductive tool or wear insulating gloves to prevent electrical shock.
• Consider wearing safety glasses and/or a dust mask when working with chemicals, dust or a large amount of debris to prevent irritation or injury.

Replacement steps

Step 1 – Access the inner door frame

1. Make sure the microwave is completely disconnected from its power source to prevent any risk of electrocution.
2. Open the microwave door to gain access to the components inside.
3. Insert a putty knife under the edge of the choke cover to gently release the locking tabs. You may need to use another putty knife to hold previously released tabs in place, preventing them from snapping back.

Step 2 – Remove the outer door frame

1. Find the screws around the frame – two larger ones on one end and five around the perimeter.
2. Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the screws around the frame.
3. Use the flathead screwdriver to release the four locking tabs along the top of the door. Carefully lift each tab so it doesn’t snap back into place.

Step 3 – Detach the door latch

1. Use needle-nose pliers to carefully detach the spring from the latch.
2. Gently lift the latch from its mounting pins and pull it out.

Read more: How to Clean a Microwave

Step 4 – Remove the old inner door frame

You can now remove the inner door frame. If your model has a plastic film covering the frame, you’ll want to replace this film as well. Reusing old film is not recommended since it can become damaged during removal.

Step 5 – Prepare the new inner door frame assembly

1. Clean the surface of the new frame with rubbing alcohol to remove any manufacturing residue.
2. Align the new film over the frame by covering all the necessary holes.
3. Peel the backing off the new frame and apply the film.
4. Use a soft cloth to smooth the frame down so it adheres without any bubbles.

Step 6 – Reassemble the door

1. Align the new frame with the upper and lower hinge pins on the microwave door. Carefully set it in place so it sits properly.
2. Apply a small amount of lithium grease to the receptacles where the latch will sit. This helps the latch move smoothly.
3. Place the latch back into its position and make sure the spring hook is correctly oriented.
4. Reattach the spring to the latch and frame.
5. Place the outer door frame back and make sure it aligns over the hinges. Press the frame into place until the locking tabs click.
6. Replace the screws you removed earlier, starting with the two larger ones on the end and then adding the five around the perimeter.

Final steps

1. Carefully align the choke cover and press it into place, ensuring that all tabs are securely fastened.
2. Reconnect the microwave to power and test the door to check if it opens and closes smoothly.

Read more: 9 safety tips for using a microwave

More information

Thanks for reading! If you have any other appliance repair needs or projects, you can find more resources including our DIY blog at AppliancePartsPros.com. There, you can enter your model number to order the exact parts you need. Most orders arrive in two business days.

You can also reach our award-winning customer service team at 1-877-477-7278, chat with a pro on our website and watch thousands of free video tutorials on our YouTube channel. We can also help you troubleshoot common microwave problems here.

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