Symptoms
- Visible crack in the door's outer or inner glass/plastic panel
- Mesh screen inside the window may be torn, bent, or missing in a spot
- May have happened from an impact or the door being slammed
- Door still closes and latches normally otherwise
Likely causes
- CommonImpact damage from bumping or slamming the doorThe door window is more fragile than the rest of the case.
- PossibleAge-related wear on the mesh screenCorrosion or repeated flexing can weaken the metal mesh over years.
- Less commonManufacturing defectRarely, a defect in the panel itself causes premature cracking.
What to do
- Stop using the microwave once you notice a crack in the door window or damage to the metal mesh screen.
- Inspect closely (with the unit unplugged and door closed) to determine if the damage is limited to a decorative outer layer or affects the actual mesh screen that blocks microwave energy.
- Do not attempt to tape over or patch the mesh screen yourself, since this doesn't restore its shielding function reliably.
- Check whether a replacement door assembly is available and reasonably priced for your model.
- If the microwave is older or a replacement door is expensive relative to a new unit, factor that into a repair-vs-replace decision.
- Have a technician assess whether the door can be safely repaired or needs full replacement before using the microwave again.
Tools and parts
Microwave door assemblySearch: “microwave door assembly replacement”
When to call a pro
Have an appliance technician assess whether the door assembly needs replacement before using the microwave again.
Safety
Use caution
A cracked door or damaged mesh screen may not properly contain microwave energy; stop using the microwave until it's inspected or repaired.