I have a Frigidaire PLMVZ169GCD over the range microwave. It's a little over 1 year old and up to this point, had been problem free. Now that it's out of warranty, it has issues. Typical. The problem is a loud buzzing sound along with a plastic burning smell when it runs. I don't know if it heats or not, because I am afraid something might catch fire. I've read posts about magnetron tubes, but am seeking advice. Any ideas what the problem is and can it be repaired? Should I just bite the bullet and spend the $300 for a new oven?

Gene,

Thank you for responding with diagrams, parts, and prices. Shortly after I posted my original question, I contacted Frigidaire customer service. I told them that while I understood my microwave was 4 months past warranty expiration, I was disappointed in their product. No one should be seeking repair on an appliance that is less than 14 months old. The customer service rep agreed and offered me the choice to have Frigidaire cover the costs for parts and labor (they would not cover diagnostic fee) OR give me a rebate worth 65% of the cost for a replacement.

I contacted two local authorized repair shops to see if the problem was even fixable. Both said yes. One charges $110 to come out. The second shop manager said that while he'd love to have my business, that taking the rebate would be in my best interest. The cost of his diagnostic would be more than what I would be paying out of pocket ($105) for a new microwave after the Frigidaire rebate ($195). In addition, there is the likelihood the problem would reoccur. I appreciated his honesty. It's rare these days.

A word of advice to all people out there who feel that because their warranty has expired, that they are out of luck. It's worth calling the manufacturer and letting them know their feelings about their product. My complaint was heard and bonus--they offered to make amends. It never hurts to ask because the worst they can say is no.