Bosch Microwave Repair

Bosch microwaves come in three main forms: over-the-range units with an exhaust fan and cooktop lighting, built-in models designed to stack with a wall oven, and microwave drawers that install below the counter. The drawer is the one that surprises people, because it has a motorized drive that opens and closes the drawer, in addition to the usual magnetron, high-voltage circuit and door switches.

On drawer models, the drive system and its sensors are common failure points. The drawer may stop part way, refuse to open, or close with a grinding sound. Door switches, which tell the microwave it is safe to run, wear out on any style. A microwave that runs, lights up and turns, but does not heat, usually has a problem in the high-voltage circuit, such as the magnetron, diode or capacitor. Over-the-range units also suffer from worn exhaust fan motors and dead light sockets.

Owners can safely check a few things. Make sure nothing is blocking the drawer track and the drawer is not overloaded. Try resetting the unit at the breaker for a minute, which can clear a control glitch after a storm. Clean the grease filters on an over-the-range unit. Never open the cabinet of a microwave yourself; the high-voltage capacitor can hold a dangerous charge even when the unit is unplugged.

Our diagnosis includes discharging and testing the high-voltage circuit safely, checking door switches, and testing the drawer drive motor and sensors. On built-in and drawer models, we may need to slide the unit out of its trim kit or cabinet, which we do carefully.

Door switches, drive parts and fan motors are typically reasonable repairs. A failed magnetron or control board on an older over-the-range microwave may cost a large share of a new one, while a microwave drawer usually justifies more repair because of its higher replacement cost and cabinet fit.