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Published on April 24, 2025
From Fair Appliance Repair Service – Sacramento’s Trusted Appliance Experts
If your microwave turntable suddenly stops spinning, it can lead to uneven cooking, cold spots, and frustration—especially during a busy day. While it may seem like a serious issue, the cause is often something simple. This guide from Fair Appliance Repair Service in Sacramento walks you through the most common reasons your microwave turntable isn’t rotating—and how to fix it safely.
A microwave’s turntable ensures even heating by rotating food through the microwaves. Food may stay cold in the middle when it stops or overcook on the edges.
Symptoms:
The plate wobbles or doesn’t spin
Grinding or no movement at all
Fix:
✅ Remove the plate and roller guide
✅ Clean any food debris or spills
✅ Reseat the turntable properly on the motor coupler
Symptoms:
No movement, even when empty
You hear a humming but no rotation.
Causes:
Burned-out motor
Electrical failure within the unit
Fixes:
✅ Check if the motor is receiving power
✅ Use a multimeter to test continuity (if DIY capable)
✅ If faulty, call a technician to replace the motor
What It Is:
The small plastic piece that connects the turntable to the motor underneath
Signs of Trouble:
The plate is not turning even if the motor is working
Loose or cracked coupler
Fix:
✅ Replace the drive coupler (usually inexpensive)
✅ Use the model number to find the right replacement
Symptoms:
The turntable won’t spin even when the cooking function works.
Buttons are unresponsive or glitchy.
Likely Causes:
Faulty control board
Internal electrical issues
Solution:
❌ Not safe for DIY
✅ Schedule a professional microwave repair appointment
Food spills under the turntable can block the rotation. Before calling for service:
✅ Remove and clean the roller guide and coupler
✅ Wipe underneath the turntable area
✅ Run a microwave steam cleaner to loosen dried gunk
Fair Appliance Repair Service proudly helps homes across Sacramento, Roseville, Elverta, Woodland, and surrounding communities.
✔️ Factory-trained technicians
✔️ Fast diagnostics and turnaround
✔️ Transparent, fair pricing
✔️ We fix all major microwave brands
📞 Call Now: 916-333-8388
Problem Type Recommended Action
Misaligned plate or coupler Realign or replace part
Faulty motor Repair if under 5 years
Control board issue Replace if cost-effective
Microwave over 8–10 years old Consider replacin
Avoid placing heavy or oversized items directly on the turntable; always use microwave-safe containers. Regularly clean the turntable and roller ring to prevent jamming
