I have not had good luck with Sears standing behind their products after the first few years of purchase. Consumer Reports has recommendee their grills and a few other things. Check with Consumer REports. Although we all look for a machine that will last forever, it seems manufacturers have gotten into the throw away mode. So do your homework.
Some sewing machine companies will give you discounts on trade ins. Check that out too, incase you see a better machine in their line.