Oven interior light doesn't work

Symptoms

• Light doesn't turn on when the door opens or the light switch is pressed
• Light flickers before going dark
• Bulb looks visibly blackened
• Everything else about the oven works fine

Likely causes

• CommonBurned-out oven light bulbOven bulbs are rated for high heat but still burn out like any bulb over time.
• CommonBulb not properly seated in the socketVibration or a recent bulb change can leave it loosely seated.
• PossibleFaulty light switchThe door-activated or panel switch that controls the light can fail separately from the bulb.
• Less commonWiring issue at the socketA loose or damaged wire at the socket can prevent power from reaching a good bulb.

What to do

1. Turn off and unplug the oven, or shut off its breaker, before replacing the bulb.
2. Locate the light cover, usually a small glass or plastic dome inside the oven cavity, and remove it per your model's instructions.
3. Unscrew the old bulb and check for blackening or a broken filament.
4. Install a new bulb rated specifically for oven use (typically 40W appliance bulb), not a regular household bulb.
5. Reinstall the cover and restore power to test.
6. If a new bulb doesn't light, check that it's screwed in fully and try reseating it.
7. If the socket and bulb both seem fine but the light still doesn't work, have a technician check the light switch and wiring.

Tools and parts

• Oven-rated replacement bulb

When to call a pro

If a properly rated new bulb doesn't fix the light, have a technician check the socket wiring and light switch.

Safety