Whirlpool Microwave Door Error (5 Common Issues & Fixes!)

Are you dealing with a Whirlpool microwave door error but have no idea what the potential cause of the error is? You’ve come to the right place.

The most common Whirlpool door errors you’re likely to encounter include a broken door switch, the door failing to close, and the door standing in a stuck in a closed position. Other problems that you’re likely to encounter include a broken door latch assembly and a problem with the timer.

In this guide, you’ll learn everything about Whirlpool microwave door error. In particular, I’ll mention the most common door errors and show you exactly how to fix them.

Let’s get started.

5 Whirlpool Microwave Door Errors & How to Fix Them

The table below is a summary of the most common Whirlpool door errors, cause of the issue, as well as what you are to do to fix the problem.

1. Whirlpool Microwave Door Switch Sensor Could Be Faulty

The door switch, sometimes referred to as the door sensor, on your Whirlpool is located around the door latch mounted to a bracket. A Whirlpool microwave can have 3 to 4 door sensors depending on the model. (Adipex)

When the door latch (also referred to as a hook) makes contact with the door, the sensors activate to indicate that you’ve had the door properly closed.

Unfortunately, the door switch/sensor can go bad, making the microwave not cook food even after closing the door.

If your Whirlpool microwave door won’t function well because of faulty door sensor, you need to replace it with a new one.

You will need a multimeter to test the door switch (sensor) for continuity. To do this:

• Set the multimeter to Rx1 and attach its tips to the two (common terminal and the normally closed/open terminals) side metal prongs extending from the door switch.
• If the needle in the multimeter reads zero, it means the switch is fine and that the problem is with a different component.
• If the multimeter does not return a reading of zero or near zero, it means the door switch is faulty. 
• Replace the door switch with a new one. 

2. Microwave Door is Not Closing Properly

The areas to look at if your Whirlpool microwave door won’t close include the hinges, and torsion spring.  

Check the torsion springs and the hinges to ensure they are still as tight as they were when you bought the appliance.

You also need to check the door hook or door latch for damages. If this part has an issue, it becomes difficult for the microwave to detect the door is closed to start cooking.

You should also consider replacing the torsion springs, and hinges. Also, you should tighten any loose screw.

• Unplug the microwave from power to prevent electrocution.
• Unthread the microwave from the kitchen cabinet, pull it out, and carefully place it on a sturdy surface.
• Open the front door panel and locate the springs just below the microwave door.

Keep in mind that most Whirlpool microwaves come with two springs, one on each side.

• Use your eyes to find any signs of corrosion, damage, or wear.
• Replace the springs if you notice damages.

If there are no signs of damage, corrosion, or wear, it means the torsion is in good condition and the problem is somewhere else.

3. Microwave Door is Stuck Closed

There are times when a Whirlpool microwave’s door can become stuck. This problem is common in some models especially those with push-release door switches.

Fortunately, the problem is easy to fix.  

Any Whirlpool microwave model with a push and release door switch mechanism usually comes with at least a single manual override that will let the microwave open without the usual mechanism or button.

Having opened the stuck door, check the door release button and replace it if damaged. Also, check the door latch assembly. It could be causing the microwave door not to open.

4. Faulty Door Latch Assembly  

Another reason why your Whirlpool microwave door is not working properly is that the door latch or hook assembly is malfunctioning.

The door latch, with the help of two hooks attached to the door switch holder on the bracket, makes closing and opening possible.

If the latch is working as supposed to, the hooks engage with the door sensor/switch to power the unit. The door latch assembly provides the required tension to engage hooks because it is spring-loaded.

If the door latch assembly fails, you’ll have to get a new one for replacement.

• Unplug the unit from power for your safety.
• Remove the microwave from the kitchen cabinet and carefully place it on a sturdy surface.
• Open up the microwave, discharge the high-voltage capacitor, locate the door latch assembly behind the inner door panel, and take it out.

Since you don’t need a multimeter here, use your eyes to check the part for any signs of discoloration, cracks, damage, or wear. Replace the door latch assembly in case you find any of the signs mentioned above.  

5. Your Whirlpool Microwave Has Been Dormant for a Long Time

Think of how long you left the microwave dormant when you start seeing the door error displayed on the appliance.

Apart from the door error occurring because of not pressing the start button, keeping the Whirlpool microwave dormant for a long time may also lead to the error.

You can fix this issue by opening and closing the door twice or so before heating what’s inside.

Related Readings

• Whirlpool Microwave Fan Won’t Turn Off
• Whirlpool Microwave Error Codes
• Samsung Microwave Touchpad Not Working

4 Ways to Prevent Any Whirlpool Microwave Door Error

Here are four ways to keep your Whirlpool microwave’s door functioning properly all the time:

1. Clean the Microwave Regularly

Staying for too long without cleaning the microwave, especially the area around the door, can cause door issues over time due to dirt and dust buildup.

The Whirlpool microwave will display a door error code if there is excess dirt and dust around the door contact. This will make the door not close properly and if the microwave door doesn’t close, the microwave cannot start.

Inspect the contact regularly and clean any dirt and dust you find. Remember to disconnect the appliance from power before cleaning to avoid shock.

2. Remove all Packaging Materials

Is your Whirlpool microwave brand new but has a door error?

The best possible explanation is that you haven’t removed all the packaging materials around the door. Simply remove any packaging material that prevents the microwave door from shutting properly.

3. Make Sure You Close the Door

Don’t straight away get technical with things if your Whirlpool microwave starts showing the door error. Instead, start by checking if you closed the door properly.

You might be surprised to you find out that you had not shut the microwave door well, which triggered a door fault code.

Most Whirlpool microwave models will make a firm clicking sound, which signals that you’ve had the door locked and cooking can start.

4. Consider an Even Surface for Placement

Some people don’t think microwave placement is such a big deal. But it is.

When you place the device on an uneven surface, the unit will lack a balance, which affects the angle at which the closes due to the improper connection of the hinges.

To prevent door errors because of placement, choose a spot in your kitchen where the microwave’s base can lay flat.

Also, if you intend to fix Whirlpool microwave to the kitchen cabinet, ensure its door doesn’t come close to an obstruction as that can hinder its opening and closure.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How Do I Fix My Whirlpool Microwave Door Switch?

Fixing the Whirlpool microwave door switch/door sensor is easy. So it shouldn’t take you more than 30 minutes to get it done.

• Cut off power and unplug the microwave’s power cord.
• Discharge the capacitor by short-circuiting it with a screwdriver.
• Open the screws holding the grill and slide to remove.
• Unthread the screws holding the control panel.
• Remove the door switch assembly and as you pull, be careful not to tamper with the wires connecting it to the main board.
• Remove the faulty door switch and install the new switch.

Reassemble the microwave and install it back in the cabinet and it should be ready for use.

2. How Do You Test a Whirlpool Microwave Door Switch?

A Whirlpool microwave features door switches with 2 to 3 terminals, depending on the model. To test the switch for continuity:

• Disassemble the appliance and remove the door switch.
• Use a multimeter to test for continuity.
• Touch the terminals with the tips of the multimeter probes and push the switch.

If the needle reading on the multimeter is zero then the switch is okay. If it doesn’t read zero or near zero, it mean the switch is defective and requires replacement.

3. How Do You Clean a Whirlpool Microwave Door Sensor?

For optimal performance, keep the area where the microwave door and frame meet clean.

Use a mild non-abrasive soap or non-abrasive detergent and water to clean this area. Rinse with clean water and dry the surface with a soft lint cloth.

4. Why Does My Whirlpool Microwave Keep Saying Door?  

The Whirlpool microwave will show the door or open/close door on display because you have closed the door and pressed commands but failed to hit the start button.

Heating cannot start until the start button is pressed and that is why you open/close door on the Whirlpool microwave.

Another reason why your Whirlpool microwave keeps saying door or open/close door is that the door is not closing properly.

• Open the microwave door and check whether there is soil buildup around the door contact area.
• Remove all the packaging materials
• If your Whirlpool microwave features a countertop design, consider placing it on an even surface, which will not block the opening and closing of the microwave door.
• If your Whirlpool comes equipped with a cooking rack, check to ensure the rack is not hindering the door from closing. 

Final Thoughts on Whirlpool Microwave Door Error

I hope this guide has helped you to see just how easy it is to deal with any Whirlpool microwave door error.

So before you spend tens of dollars in repair service, consider troubleshooting the door and fixing the errors yourself by following the step-by-step instructions that I’ve shared in this guide.