If a microwave door will not close, leave the appliance off. Remove an oversized dish or an out-of-place cooking rack, then wipe food from the door contact area with a soft damp cloth. Try one gentle close. Do not lift, slam, tape, or hold the door shut. The FDA advises not using a microwave whose door does not close firmly or whose hinges, latches, or seals are damaged. A persistent gap, crooked door, or broken latch needs professional assessment; never open the cabinet or bypass an interlock.
Door stops against a dish Likely cause: Oversized plate or cooking rack. Homeowner action: Remove the item when cool and close gently.
Food crust around the frame Likely cause: Soil blocking contact. Homeowner action: Wipe the accessible surface with mild detergent and dry it.
One corner remains open Likely cause: Hinge or door alignment damage. Homeowner action: Stop use; do not press or bend the door.
Latch hook looks cracked Likely cause: Damaged latch assembly. Homeowner action: Leave the microwave off and arrange service.
Door closes but Start does nothing Likely cause: Interlock, control lock, or switch problem. Homeowner action: Check settings once; do not bypass the switch.
Fan or cooking continues with door open Likely cause: Possible safety-interlock failure. Homeowner action: Stop use immediately and disconnect power if safe.
DIY difficulty: Low for off-and-cool visual checks and surface cleaning. Time: 10-20 minutes. Tools: Owner manual, soft cloth, flashlight, phone for photos. Safety risk: High once door or interlock damage is suspected. Call a professional: Door remains uneven, latch is cracked, door needs lifting, or cooking continues while open.