My sewing machine is about 30 years old. At the time I bought it I thought it was the most amazing thing I had ever seen because of all of the built-in stitches, automatic buttonholer, darning capability, etc. It has gone through a house fire (it was in its carrying case which partially melted), several moves and lots of sewing projects. A few weeks ago while I was working on one of my current WIPs the machine seized up. I thought that it had finally met its demise and that I'd be able to perform the pity me song and dance to my DH to get a new machine. Well, wouldn't you know, handyman that he is took the case top panel and faceplate off, gave the machine a really good cleaning and oiling and then put it all back together. I was amazed at how much lint was lodged inside the case (not just in the bobbin area). He oiled it very well and hit spots that you just can't hit without removing the case. I plugged it in, held my breath and put the pedal to the metal. After a few tentative chugs it started back up and sounds better than it has in years. I am still dropping hints for a new one every chance I get but I am happy that the heavy-duty cleaning and oiling solved the problem. I will definitely do this more often!