My Magic Chef wine cooler MCWC52B doesn't cool. The relay does not rattle, the overload switch gets really hot and the compressor hums. Is the compressor done for?

If the compressor is quite hot to the touch, that usually means that there is a problem with the compressor. Could be a short or open winding, but either way you will need a new compressor.

The light may be old, and need repairing, I would try contacting somebody local rather than buying a new one.

If the overload was open circuit you would not have a hot compressor. The overload activates because the compressor won't start. If there is a capacitor starter, change it. If not let it cool for at least a day then try again. If still no go, replace compressor.

pull the relay off and see if it rattles...if so, its bad, i have seen these be bad and not rattle...its either relay, or compressor...

Turn it off and place a small electric fan by compressor to cool it down.
When you turn it back on, see if you hear a clicking noise. This would indicate starting components need checking.

if its clicking every few minutes its the ptc relay.located to the left of the compressor behind shield with 1 screw.go to repairclinic.com...part# 1206838

its your ptc relay.its a very simple fix.to the left of the compressor is a plastic cover with 1 screw.take it off.youll see a small box on top with 1 wire going to it.wiggle it off.pulls straight out left of compressor.go to repairclinic.com..type in part #1206838.its about a $27.00 fix. mines been running fine since.hope this helps

I would try replaceing the overload/relay first . The piece that plugs onto the compressor . Without model number , cant give you the part number .

My Name is Mike. I have the same unit. The compressor is not bad. Replace the start relay& overload on compressor.

You need to replace the Ptc unit attached to the compressor. Go to REPAIR CLINIC.COM and order the following part. 1206838 Ptc relay. They also will show you were it is located and how to replace it. Compressor tanks very rarely go bad. It is an $11.00 dollar part