I keep all my older machines cleaned myself. As far as the computerized machines, I take them in the first year under warranty and then if there is a problem that I cannot fix myself, I will take to repair shop. I have a Viking SE and it has been in the shop 2 times. I have had it 5 years. I have a Brother 4000D that I bought used about 3 years ago and it has never been to the shop. You are lucky if you get a repair bill for $!00.00, ours here are $169.00 plus any parts. now you know why I try to keep mine in working condition myself...