Step 1: To access the locking tabs, remove the lever, knob and fasteners, then remove the side panel. For some models, it is necessary to remove the lever, knob, crumb tray door, and fasteners, then remove the entire housing. The fasteners are generally located on the bottom of the toaster, but some models hide them under side panels and self-adhesive labels.

Step 2: After removing the cover, inspect the locking tab assembly for obvious problems, such as food particles or loose parts blocking this assembly. Use a can of compressed air to blow away food debris so that the locking tabs can be cleaned.

Step 3: Check for smooth movement by wrenching the bracket lever up and down. If the bracket movement is stiff, carefully lubricate the traction bar of the locking tab lever. This should be done with a petroleum lubricant and be sure not to get it on adjacent electronic parts.

Step 4: Check that the locking tabs open and close smoothly. It may be necessary to gently break and bend the locking tabs to get them into place properly.

Servicing the chassis: Most of the units in the toaster are mounted on a frame called the chassis. It is necessary to remove the chassis from the toaster housing when servicing or replacing many of the internal parts, including the heating element. Disassemble the toaster as follows: remove the levers, knobs and fasteners, then gently lift the housing from the chassis.

Some toasters also require the power cord to be unplugged from the inside before the chassis can be completely removed. Depending on the severity of the toaster's problem, sometimes the entire chassis may need to be replaced, and sometimes just one or two components may need to be replaced.