I have a Bernina 440QE and I love it and several friends have the 180 have you changed the needle also right needle size or thread you are using also the bobbin thing can't think of right name does need to be oiled often also cleaned as the Bernina at least to my findings does not like any lint your book should have instructions for this then to it may need a goo service I would check with the dealer you do have a wonderful machine