[mackattack]

This wall unit microwave/oven combo is 11 years old. Don't know if I should repair or replace, and I'm not sure I'm getting good estimates from the service shop. I know I'm ignorant, and I don't want to be rude, but I'm not getting a good feeling.

I turned on microwave and immediately heard a loud humming and smelled a bad electrical smell. Service tech is saying we need to replace the magnetron and the transformer, estimate $600, but doesn't seem to be sure that's all it will be; won't know until he replaces those things. Do the two things go hand-in-hand... you know, if one goes bad the other one breaks? (I also found something online about the sound and smell could indicate a problem with the diode, but he didn't mention that.)

Also, two months ago, I had a error message that said DOOR and the microwave wouldn't work. The same repair place replaced the solenoid at that time.

I love this site, and I found the magnetron and transformer parts for my model, but not a solenoid. Is the solenoid a part of these other parts or a separate thing?

Sorry to be long-winded. I don't like feeling ignorant and suspicious. But it took a week of me calling the shop after the service call just to get the estimate. Should I get a second opinion? Thanks!

[PS Staff - Sheila]

Usually if the transformer goes and you have an electrical smell it is easy to tell by looking a the transformer.

The coating on the wires will be melted and you can smell the burnt smell on it.

The magnetron also smell bad when it is going bad.

I don't think he should have to replace both.

The solenoid that was replace was for the door lock on the oven.

[mackattack]

Thanks, Sheila, for your reply. I guess the decision now is between bringing out another company to see if just one part can be replaced (my druthers), or buy a whole new wall combo unit. I just hate the idea of scrapping this big combo unit that we still otherwise like. But I also think putting in more money than 25-30% of the cost of a new unit might be foolish. Ugh. I guess it's worth the price of one more service call/estimate. Thanks again!