I never used to think a needle threader was necessary. Then I joined the bifocal club. Now I LOVE my auto threader on the machines I have. Yes, sometimes the thread doesn't catch, but I just make sure I use a "swoop" movement to make sure the thread gets under the little hook.
I use the tip of my stitch ripper to pull the loop through far enough to take with my fingers.
I also cheat when hiding my threads in the quilt. I use the "cheater" needles that you just snap the thread into. They work great!!