Washer will not advance cycles on its own

That issue sounds like it it likely to be the control board, or maybe a bad connection to it or a dry joint.

https://www.fixya.com/support/r29874712-repairing_microwave_ovens

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Question Edited for clarity.
Question moved from Watches to GE Microwave Ovens.

Underneath the knob there is an electrical contact. It needs spraying with Electrical Contact/Switch Cleaner. You may have to buy a new control panel complete which may not be cost effective unless it is a fitted in unit.

Google

GE (model) parts diagram
https://www.geapplianceparts.com/store/parts/ModelSectionParts/JVM1650BH05/1/0/0/0/MICROWAVE

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Could be a defective control board or door interlock

It may be a defective upper or lower door switch (or either switch's mount may be bad) or a stuck relay on the control circuit board.

At our Web site, we have a video available showing how to remove a typical over the range control panel assembly in under 5 minutes.

Our file on door switches is here.

After you or a friend look that over, if you still have a problem, we repair these control boards for $39.95 with a one-year guarantee.

Instead of having yours repaired, you can buy a new control circuit board from the Pros here, our favorite supplier.

We're happy to help you with free advice and we'd appreciate your thoughtful rating of our answer.

remove door and check horse shoe shaped plastic guides located at the top of the door that the drum rides on for wear....replace if worn

You have a bad or loose magnetron.

See this FixYa solution. even if your model number is different.

We're happy to help you with free advice and we'd appreciate your thoughtful rating of our answer

Hi, these machines get corrosion in the door safety switch. I would start there.

A little cleaning of the contacts might get that machine going. How about a repair manual?
I have a few:

http://docs.google.com/fileview?id=0B5If-wTgYWH5ZmJjMzhhMmYtNTI1Zi00MDExLThiNTMtYmE0NzQ3OTdmNGFi&hl=en

Take care

Take the 2 screws out of the top outside grill. Take the 1 screw out of the top of the control panel. Lift the panel slightly and it will tilt out and hang there. Try a cook cycle with the panel in this position. If it works, your problem is interference from your magnetron. It is very common on these units. I do not recommend adding EMI shielding with tin foil as many have been suggesting on the help sites. If you are still under warranty, call GE. If not, call GE and threaten to sue. This is a known problem with these units and they should have been recalled.

You can download GE owner's manuals and installation instructions here.

We're happy to help you with free advice and we'd appreciate your thoughtful rating of our answer.

You can download GE owner's manuals and installation instructions here.

We're happy to help you with free advice and we'd appreciate your thoughtful rating of our answer.