General Electric Microwave buttons not working: Common Causes & How to Fix

Safety First

• Begin by ensuring your safety. Disconnect the General Electric microwave from the power source by unplugging it from the wall outlet or switching off the dedicated circuit breaker.

Identify the User Control and Display Board

• Locate the user control and display board in your General Electric microwave. It is usually positioned on the front panel, housing the control buttons and digital display.
• Refer to the General Electric microwave's user manual or search for diagrams online to help you identify the user control and display board.

Order the Correct Replacement Board

• Determine the specific model and type of user control and display board required for your General Electric microwave. Check the user manual or contact the manufacturer to obtain the correct replacement part information.
• Purchase the replacement user control and display board from authorized dealers, appliance stores, or online retailers.

Prepare the Workspace

• Clear a clean and spacious area to work on the replacement. Place a soft cloth or towel on the surface to protect the General Electric microwave from scratches.

Access the User Control and Display Board

• Depending on the General Electric microwave model, you may need to remove the General Electric microwave's front panel or access cover to gain access to the user control and display board.
• Follow the instructions in the General Electric microwave's user manual or search online for specific disassembly steps for your model.

Disconnect Wiring and Ribbon Cables

• Identify the wiring harnesses and ribbon cables connected to the user control and display board.
• Carefully disconnect the wiring and ribbon cables from the board, taking note of their positions or using a labeling system for proper reconnection later.

Remove the Old User Control and Display Board

• Unscrew or unclip the old user control and display board from its mounting location on the General Electric microwave.
• Gently remove the old board, being cautious not to damage any surrounding components.

Install the New User Control and Display Board

• Position the new user control and display board in the same location where the old one was removed.
• Secure the new board using appropriate screws or clips, ensuring it is aligned properly.

Reconnect Wiring and Ribbon Cables

• Reconnect the wiring harnesses and ribbon cables to their corresponding ports on the new user control and display board. Ensure they are properly inserted and secure.

Reassemble the General Electric Microwave

• Follow the reverse order of the disassembly steps to reassemble the General Electric microwave.
• Ensure all panels and covers are properly aligned and fastened according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Reconnect the Power

• Plug the General Electric microwave back into the power source or switch on the dedicated circuit breaker.
• Ensure the General Electric microwave is receiving power.

Test the Replacement

• Turn on the General Electric microwave and verify that the new user control and display board is functioning properly.
• Check if the control buttons respond, and the digital display shows the correct information.

Clean up and Finish

• Once you have confirmed that the replacement is successful, tidy up your workspace and discard any packaging or old parts.
• Return any items you removed from the surrounding area back to their original positions.

Safety First

• Begin by ensuring your safety. Disconnect the General Electric microwave from the power source by unplugging it from the wall outlet or turning off the dedicated circuit breaker.

Identify the Touchpad and Control Panel

• Identify the touchpad and control panel on your General Electric microwave. It is usually located on the front of the appliance and consists of buttons, a display, and the touch-sensitive surface.
• Refer to the General Electric microwave's user manual or search for diagrams online to help you locate and understand the components.

Order the Correct Replacement Part

• Determine the specific touchpad and control panel model required for your General Electric microwave. Check the user manual or contact the manufacturer to find the correct replacement part.
• Purchase the replacement touchpad and control panel from authorized dealers, appliance stores, or online retailers.

Prepare the Workspace

• Clear a clean and spacious area to work on the replacement. Place a soft cloth or towel on the surface to protect the General Electric microwave from scratches.

Remove the Old Touchpad and Control Panel

• Carefully remove any screws or fasteners securing the old touchpad and control panel to the General Electric microwave. Keep track of the locations of each screw to facilitate reassembly.
• Gently detach any connectors or ribbon cables connecting the touchpad and control panel to the General Electric microwave's internal circuitry. Take note of their positions or use a labeling system to ensure correct reconnection later.

Install the New Touchpad and Control Panel

• Position the new touchpad and control panel in the same location where the old one was removed.
• Connect the ribbon cables or connectors to their respective ports on the General Electric microwave's internal circuitry. Ensure they are properly inserted and secure.

Secure the New Touchpad and Control Panel

• Fasten the new touchpad and control panel using the screws or fasteners that were removed earlier. Ensure they are tightened appropriately without over-tightening.

Reassemble and Test

• Reassemble any panels or covers that were removed during the replacement process. Ensure they are aligned correctly and securely fastened.
• Reconnect the General Electric microwave to the power source or turn on the circuit breaker.
• Test the functionality of the new touchpad and control panel by using the buttons and checking if the display is working properly.

Clean up and Finish

• Once you have confirmed that the replacement is successful, tidy up your workspace and discard any packaging or old parts.
• Return any items you removed from the surrounding area back to their original positions.

Safety First

• Prioritize your safety by disconnecting the General Electric microwave from the power source. Unplug it from the wall outlet or switch off the dedicated circuit breaker.

Identify the Touchpad

• Locate the touchpad on your General Electric microwave. It is typically a flat, touch-sensitive surface located on the control panel of the appliance.
• Refer to the General Electric microwave's user manual or search for diagrams online to help you identify the touchpad.

Order the Correct Replacement

• Determine the specific touchpad model required for your General Electric microwave. Check the user manual or contact the manufacturer to obtain the correct replacement part information.
• Purchase the replacement touchpad from authorized dealers, appliance stores, or online retailers.

Prepare the Workspace

• Create a clean and well-lit workspace to perform the replacement. Place a soft cloth or towel on the surface to protect the General Electric microwave from scratches.

Remove the Old Touchpad

• Carefully remove any screws or fasteners securing the old touchpad to the General Electric microwave's control panel. Keep track of the screw locations for reassembly.
• Gently detach any connectors or ribbon cables that connect the touchpad to the General Electric microwave's internal circuitry. Take note of their positions or use a labeling system for proper reconnection later.

Install the New Touchpad

• Position the new touchpad in the same location where the old one was removed.
• Connect the ribbon cables or connectors to their corresponding ports on the General Electric microwave's internal circuitry. Ensure they are properly inserted and secure.

Secure the New Touchpad

• Fasten the new touchpad using the screws or fasteners that were removed earlier. Make sure they are tightened appropriately without over-tightening.

Test the Replacement

• Reconnect the General Electric microwave to the power source or turn on the circuit breaker.
• Test the functionality of the new touchpad by pressing various buttons and verifying if the General Electric microwave responds accordingly.

Reassemble and Finish

• Reassemble any panels or covers that were removed during the replacement process. Ensure they are aligned correctly and securely fastened.
• Clean the touchpad and control panel using a soft, damp cloth to remove any fingerprints or debris.
• Return any items you removed from the surrounding area back to their original positions.

Prepare for the Replacement

• Unplug the General Electric microwave from the power source to ensure safety.
• Clear the surrounding area and remove any items near the General Electric microwave to create a clean workspace.

Gather the Necessary Tools

• Check the manufacturer's instructions or the General Electric microwave's user manual to identify the specific tools required for the replacement. Typically, you may need a screwdriver and possibly other specialized tools.

Locate the General Electric Microwave Main Control Board

• The main control board is responsible for managing the General Electric microwave's functions and settings.
• Consult the General Electric microwave's user manual or look for diagrams online to identify the main control board's location in your specific model.

Remove the General Electric Microwave Cover

• General Electric Microwave covers are typically secured with screws. Use the appropriate screwdriver to remove the screws and carefully lift off the cover.
• Set the cover aside in a safe place.

Identify the Main Control Board

• Once the cover is removed, locate the main control board, which is usually a large circuit board positioned at the front or back of the General Electric microwave.
• Take note of any connectors or wires attached to the control board.

Disconnect the Connectors and Wires

• Identify the connectors and wires attached to the main control board.
• Gently pull the connectors and wires away from the control board to detach them.
• Take note of their positions and ensure you remember how they were connected.

Remove the Old Main Control Board

• The main control board may be secured with mounting screws or clips. Depending on the model, use the appropriate tools to release and remove the old control board.
• Take care not to damage any surrounding components or wires during this process.

Install the New Main Control Board

• Take the new main control board and ensure it matches the specifications and dimensions of the old board.
• Position the new control board in the same location where the old one was removed.
• If necessary, use mounting screws or clips to secure the new control board in place.

Reconnect the Connectors and Wires

• Attach the connectors and wires to their respective terminals or connectors on the new control board.
• Ensure a secure and proper connection by pushing the connectors firmly onto the terminals.

Reassemble the General Electric Microwave

• Carefully place the General Electric microwave cover back onto the General Electric microwave and secure it with the screws.
• Ensure all screws are tightened but not overly tightened.

Test the Replacement

• Plug the General Electric microwave back into the power source.
• Turn on the General Electric microwave and run a test to verify that it is functioning correctly.
• Check for any unusual behavior or issues with the General Electric microwave's operation.

Clean up and Finish

• Once you have confirmed that the replacement is successful, tidy up your workspace and discard any packaging or old parts.
• Return any items you removed from the surrounding area back to their original positions.

Prepare for the Replacement

• Unplug the General Electric microwave from the power source to ensure safety.
• Clear the surrounding area and remove any items near the General Electric microwave to create a clean workspace.

Gather the Necessary Tools

• Check the manufacturer's instructions or the General Electric microwave's user manual to identify the specific tools required for the replacement. Typically, you may need a screwdriver and possibly other specialized tools.

Locate the General Electric Microwave Main Control Board

• The main control board is responsible for managing the General Electric microwave's functions and settings.
• Consult the General Electric microwave's user manual or look for diagrams online to identify the main control board's location in your specific model.

Remove the General Electric Microwave Cover

• General Electric Microwave covers are typically secured with screws. Use the appropriate screwdriver to remove the screws and carefully lift off the cover.
• Set the cover aside in a safe place.

Identify the Main Control Board

• Once the cover is removed, locate the main control board, which is usually a large circuit board positioned at the front or back of the General Electric microwave.
• Take note of any connectors or wires attached to the control board.

Disconnect the Connectors and Wires

• Identify the connectors and wires attached to the main control board.
• Gently pull the connectors and wires away from the control board to detach them.
• Take note of their positions and ensure you remember how they were connected.

Remove the Old Main Control Board

• The main control board may be secured with mounting screws or clips. Depending on the model, use the appropriate tools to release and remove the old control board.
• Take care not to damage any surrounding components or wires during this process.

Install the New Main Control Board

• Take the new main control board and ensure it matches the specifications and dimensions of the old board.
• Position the new control board in the same location where the old one was removed.
• If necessary, use mounting screws or clips to secure the new control board in place.

Reconnect the Connectors and Wires

• Attach the connectors and wires to their respective terminals or connectors on the new control board.
• Ensure a secure and proper connection by pushing the connectors firmly onto the terminals.

Reassemble the General Electric Microwave

• Carefully place the General Electric microwave cover back onto the General Electric microwave and secure it with the screws.
• Ensure all screws are tightened but not overly tightened.

Test the Replacement

• Plug the General Electric microwave back into the power source.
• Turn on the General Electric microwave and run a test to verify that it is functioning correctly.
• Check for any unusual behavior or issues with the General Electric microwave's operation.

Clean up and Finish

• Once you have confirmed that the replacement is successful, tidy up your workspace and discard any packaging or old parts.
• Return any items you removed from the surrounding area back to their original positions.

Prepare for the Replacement

• Unplug the General Electric microwave from the power source to ensure safety.
• Clear the surrounding area and remove any items near the General Electric microwave to create a clean workspace.

Gather the Necessary Tools

• Check the manufacturer's instructions or the General Electric microwave's user manual to identify the specific tools required for the replacement. Typically, you may need a screwdriver, pliers, and possibly other specialized tools.

Locate the General Electric Microwave Door Switch

• The door switch assembly is usually found near the latch mechanism inside the General Electric microwave.
• Consult the General Electric microwave's user manual or look for diagrams online to locate the door switch assembly in your specific model.

Remove the General Electric Microwave Cover

• General Electric Microwave covers are typically secured with screws. Use the appropriate screwdriver to remove the screws and carefully lift off the cover.
• Set the cover aside in a safe place.

Identify the Door Switch Assembly

• Once the cover is removed, locate the door switch assembly. It consists of multiple switches connected by wires and is typically mounted on a bracket.

Disconnect the Wires

• Take note of the wire connections on the door switch assembly, ensuring you remember how they are connected.
• Using pliers, gently disconnect the wires from the switches. Be careful not to damage the wires during this process.

Remove the Old Door Switch Assembly

• The door switch assembly may be held in place by screws or clips. Depending on the model, use the appropriate tools to release and remove the old assembly.
• Take care not to damage any surrounding components or wires during this process.

Install the New Door Switch Assembly

• Take the new door switch assembly and ensure it matches the specifications and dimensions of the old assembly.
• Position the new assembly in the same location where the old one was removed.
• If necessary, use screws or clips to secure the new assembly in place.

Connect the Wires to the New Assembly

• Attach the wires to the corresponding switches on the new door switch assembly.
• Ensure a secure and proper connection by firmly attaching the wires to the switches.

Reassemble the General Electric Microwave

• Carefully place the General Electric microwave cover back onto the General Electric microwave and secure it with the screws.
• Ensure all screws are tightened but not overly tightened.

Test the Replacement

• Plug the General Electric microwave back into the power source.
• Close and open the General Electric microwave door multiple times to ensure that the new door switch assembly functions correctly.
• Verify that the door latches securely and that the General Electric microwave operates as expected.

Clean up and Finish

• Once you have confirmed that the replacement is successful, tidy up your workspace and discard any packaging or old parts.
• Return any items you removed from the surrounding area back to their original positions.

Safety First

• Prioritize your safety by disconnecting the General Electric microwave from the power source. Unplug it from the wall outlet or turn off the circuit breaker dedicated to the General Electric microwave.

Identify the Micro Switch

• Locate the micro switch within your General Electric microwave. It is a small component typically found behind the control panel or near the door latch area.
• Consult the General Electric microwave's user manual or search for diagrams online to help you identify the micro switch's location.

Remove the Control Panel or Access Panel

• Depending on the General Electric microwave model, you may need to remove the control panel or an access panel to access the micro switch.
• Carefully remove the necessary screws or clips holding the panel in place, taking note of their positioning for reassembly.

Disconnect Wires from the Micro Switch

• Identify the wires connected to the micro switch. Note their positions or take a picture to assist with reconnection later.
• Gently detach the wires from the micro switch. Some wires may have connectors that require you to release them by pressing or squeezing.

Remove the Old Micro Switch

• The micro switch is typically secured with screws or clips. Remove the screws or release the clips to detach the old micro switch from its mounting position.
• Be cautious not to damage any surrounding components or wires during this process.

Obtain a Replacement Micro Switch

• Determine the specific micro switch model required for your General Electric microwave. Check the General Electric microwave's user manual or consult the manufacturer's website to find the correct replacement part.
• Purchase the replacement micro switch from authorized dealers, appliance stores, or online retailers.

Install the New Micro Switch

• Take the new micro switch and position it in the same location where the old one was removed.
• Secure the new micro switch using the appropriate screws or clips.

Reconnect the Wires

• Refer to the notes or picture taken earlier to guide you in reconnecting the wires to the new micro switch.
• Ensure each wire is properly inserted into its corresponding connector or terminal.

Reassemble the Control Panel or Access Panel

• Attach the control panel or access panel back onto the General Electric microwave, aligning it with the proper guides or slots.
• Secure the panel with screws or clips, ensuring it is firmly in place.

Reconnect the Power

• Plug the General Electric microwave back into the power source or switch on the dedicated circuit breaker.
• Ensure the General Electric microwave is receiving power.

Test the Replacement

• Turn on the General Electric microwave and test the functionality of the micro switch.
• Check if the General Electric microwave responds correctly when operating the door latch or other relevant functions.

Clean up and Finish

• Once you have confirmed that the replacement is successful, tidy up your workspace and discard any packaging or old parts.
• Return any items you removed from the surrounding area back to their original positions.