Why is the GE Microwave Turntable Not Working?

Dirty

• A dirty microwave is the most common reason why the turntable won't rotate. Food particles and spilled liquids build up over time if you don't clean up the spillovers as soon as they happen. This causes the turntable plate, carousel and turntable guide to get sticky. Remove the cooking plate and guide, and hand wash it with warm water and soap. Use warm, soapy water and a cloth to clean the microwave base and carousel. If the dirt is extremely baked on, fill up a bowl with 2 cups of water, 1 tsp. of liquid soap and a lemon slice or juice. Turn the microwave on, and let it run for between three and five minutes. Wipe off the interior of the microwave with a wet cloth.

Improperly Positioned

• Another common issue is an improperly positioned cooking plate and turntable guide. Remove the plate from your GE microwave, and place the guide directly in the grooved section on the base of your microwave. Place the plate in the grooves in the plastic carousel and directly over the guide. Turn on your microwave, and see if it rotates.

Motor

• If your GE microwave turntable is still not turning correctly, disconnect the microwave from the power source, and check the motor. The motor can get stuck if you haven't used the microwave for a while. Remove the base plate of the microwave. Turn the carousel motor until it freely rotates. If it doesn't rotate, see if it's corroded. If the motor has a burned-out look or smells like burned electrical wiring, replace it.

Broken Guide/Bushings

• The turntable guide is the circular piece with wheels. If this component breaks, you must get a new one, since it's difficult to repair this component. Contact a GE parts dealer to purchase a new one. The bushings are the plastic components on the carousel. Food can get trapped in the bushings, preventing it from turning properly. Clean the bushings with a cotton swab or a lightly damp cloth. Examine the bushings. If they are extremely worn or if pieces are breaking off, you must replace the bushings.