Actually, there are two separate stitch counts on a sewing machine -- similar to a car. One is the lifetime stitch count, and the other is the maintenance count. When you sew so many stitches, the oil light comes on, or the "time for maintenance" light. When you bring the machine to the shop, we have to re-set the service panel, so the maintenance count will start over. Bernina machines will also separate the lifetime stitch count into regular sewing, embroidery sewing and BSR (Bernina Stitch Regulator) totals. The lifetime stitch count isn't always available for the consumer to see. The tech has to know how to get into the service panel to see it. That lifetime count cannot be changed.