I have been seeing a rather odd number of over the range microwave ovens of late that seem to have a burnt out cavity lamp. These lights are mounted to provide lighting when the door is opened, and when the oven is in operation. Because this is the type of failure the average handy person can do themselves, I thought I would provide a few photos of the replacement process on a sample oven. Not all ovens have the bulbs in the same location, but these general steps should get you going in the right direction.



My sample oven is a Frigidaire Model #fmv145ks1, and as usual, start by unplugging the unit from the power outlet. Next I removed the ventilation grill located along the top of the unit which is held in place with two screws. Yours may have three screws, or maybe 2 or 3 screws in the top, or it may be held in place with clips. Whichever way yours is mounted, remove any screws and carefully tip the grills top toward you paying attention to any alignment tabs that may break easily.


Behind the grill you should find a metal cover held in place with a screw like this one.



Or maybe yours is smaller and has plastic tabs holding it down like this.



Whichever kind of cover you have, remove it and you should find the small light bulb just inside. It can be a tight fit to get your hand in there, but remove the bulb from the base just like any other light bulb.



Install a replacement bulb in the socket and put the cover back in place. The grill goes back on just like it came off, remembering to be careful of the tabs. Plug the unit back in and try out your handy work. There are a few different types of cavity light bulbs so make sure you have the correct one. This is an easy repair you can do yourself if you be careful and take your time.