Ever pull a dish out of the microwave only to find one side piping hot and the other still cold? The problem might not be your microwave—it could be that little plastic ring under the turntable.

Most of us don’t give the ring cover a second thought, but it’s what keeps the turntable spinning smoothly. Without it, the plate might wobble, rotate unevenly, or stop turning altogether. That’s why some meals come out perfectly while others are a mess.

It also helps reduce noise and protects the microwave’s motor from extra wear and tear. So if yours is cracked or missing, it’s worth replacing—your future leftovers will thank you.

Turns out, even the smallest parts can make the biggest difference.