My Kenmore is doing great!

Wow, trim kits are that expensive? With that track record, I would not do it again, especially if you don't even use it.
I would turn that area into an open shelf for something that is used regularly. If you have a pantry, maybe just buy a small unit that can stay on the counter. I have a GE Profile spacemaker that is mounted to the bottom of my upper cabinets. Had it for around 6 years now, no issues at all with daily use, and I can still use the countertop beneath it.

Stick with panasonic or sharp units.

Today's units have a lifespan of 5-10 years, period.

You can get a custom sized trim kit to fit any microwave for +/- $150 from MicroTrim in California.

Here is a link that might be useful: best bang for the buck: and they're everywhere

This post was edited by xedos on Sun, Nov 24, 13 at 18:55

Hi! Hope you don't mind my joining the discussion. Ours was a Whirlpool, when I still lived with my parents. We had it for over 5 years, and didn't have any complaints. I think it was in the house for around 8 years.

I took a look on the Whirlpool website just now and their new models are so much sleeker than ours was.

in case you'd like to see...

Here is a link that might be useful: Whirlpool Microwaves