My first question is - does it sew straight stitch properly? If so, then I would check the user manual to be certain that everything for the zigzag stitch was set properly (it looks like this machine, you have to MANUALLY change the width setting - I would set it to the widest possible setting for troubleshooting). Then, once I knew that all the settings were correct, I would turn the wheel by hand and watch to see if the needle does indeed go side to side. Also, be certain that you have the correct presser foot, with enough hole width to accommodate the wide stitch. Good luck!!