The part(s) or condition(s) listed below for the symptom Microwave exhaust fan not working are ordered from most likely to least likely to occur. Check or test each item, starting with the items at the top of the page.
Door Switch
To determine if the fan motor is defective, remove the fan motor from the microwave and try turning the fan blades by hand. If the blades do not turn freely, replace the fan motor. If the fan blades do turn freely, use a multimeter to test the motor for incoming power and for continuity. If the motor has power but won’t run, replace it. If the motor does not have continuity, replace it.
The thermostat monitors the air temperature and turns on the fan when necessary. If the thermostat is defective, it won’t turn on the exhaust fan at all. Use a multimeter to test the thermostat for continuity. If the thermostat does not have continuity, replace it.
Grille
Control Module
Micro Switch
The main control board might be defective. However, this is not usually the case. Before replacing the control board, first check the exhaust fan motor and wiring. If the exhaust fan motor is not getting power, the main control board might be at fault.
If the exhaust fan indicator comes on when the fan button is pressed on the control panel, but you've determined that power is not reaching the fan motor, then it's likely the control board is defective and should be replaced.
Vent Grille
Door Assembly
Drive Motor
If the exhaust fan indicator doesn't come on when the fan touchpad button is pressed on the control panel, it's likely the touchpad and control panel assembly is malfunctioning and should be replaced.
If the exhaust fan indicator doesn't come on when the fan touchpad button is pressed, it's likely the touchpad is malfunctioning and should be replaced.
If the exhaust fan indicator doesn't come on when the fan button is pressed on the control panel, it's likely the control panel is malfunctioning and should be replaced.