How To Fix A Microwave Door That Won't Open

Door Latch Lever or Button

If the door on your microwave oven won’t open, you may have a problem with the door latch lever. The door latch lever assembly usually consists of a paddle or button that either pivots downward or pushes into the control panel. It then contacts the door latch assembly and releases the door hooks to allow you to open the door. If the pivot or lever portion is broken, then the door hooks cannot be lifted to release the door. Unplug the unit and remove the cover to access the door latch lever. You may also need to remove the control panel to gain better access. Remove the broken piece and insert the new part into the pivot openings. On models that use a push button style, release the retaining tabs and install the new part making sure that the return spring is installed correctly.