GE microwave is not heating food

Question

GE microwave - spacermaker over the stove model JVM1650BB00

My microwave works with the exception of heating. I was attempting to heat so leftovers when I heard a crackle sound after I entered the cooking code on the touch panel. Do you know if there are any reports of this model having problems being over the stove? I've noticed that in the last few years, my new microwaves keep going out. Could it be possible that the moisture from cooking causes a short in the touch panel? How would I diagnose the problem? I know that there are repair shops, but I am not as confident that they will be able to give me an unbiased answer. We are weighing the possibility of just replacing it all together instead of the hassle of repairing. I would like to save 300-400 dollars though.