I have had this model of Janome for 4 or 5 years without a single problem. I can't tell you how many hours I have sewn and quilted with it; I use it at least every other day. I have only taken it in once for a cleaning (waiting for the lightening strike
!) because I absolutely detest the dealer that sold it to me and I refuse to give them another penny. I won't even buy fabric from them. Sorry you are having so much difficulty with your machine.