I never really thought of the different scenarios of what could happen if you do sew over pins. I was always concerned with the pin, not necessarily the needle. Now that someone pointed out that the tip of the needle could break off and go down into the machine I think I will try not to sew over pins anymore. I sure can't afford a repair like this. Oh, and by the way, after long consideration I determined the only time I took my machine in for repair is because the timing was off. Probably the result of hitting a pin. I'm breaking this bad habit. Thanks for the awakening!!!