What a sad thread to read! Berninas should never be problem machines; they are only able to charge the prices they do because of their reputation, and if they lose that, they will be nothing. You should definitely call Bernina directly (please by-pass your less than satisfactory dealer) and report the problems you are having, both with the machine and the dealer. Bernina dealerships are closely watched, and I am sure your dealer will get a call from Bernina regarding your machine. You have invested a small fortune in your machine, and you need to have someone pay attention to your problems. Please let us know how all of this turns out!