mucky

Without parts I paid $60.00. With the newer machines is it necessary to take in yearly if one keeps them clean?

debs

I took my Bernina Artista 125 in for yearly service which I always stretch for 2-3 yrs and it was their standard service charge of $90. They did order a part, but that hasn't come in yet, only 2 months ago, Haven't charged for it yet.

That is in Central Texas at the Bernina store that is in Waco, Temple & Killeen.They also sell & service all brands.

Debs & Hemi

qbquilts

I normally pay around $70 something. Last time I had it in, it was only around $40. I normally get a rough estimate before leaving based on anticipated services (IE, basic cleaning/tune-up). I usually take mine in once a year before my fall quilt camps/retreats to make sure it's in good condition. Nothing like getting 7 hours from home and not having a working sewing machine.

I have a Husqvarna Viking 990 SLE from the 80's (one of the early computer models). The last two times I've had it in, I've gone to the newer quilt store in town, which happens to be a Bernina dealer, instead of the local Husqvarna Viking dealer. They have a quicker turn-around time (the first time it was ready same-day, second time the next day) while the Viking place takes a week or more. I think the Viking place is just a drop off for a repair man while the Bernina dealer actually has a repair man on staff. He's in several days a week and will often work evenings while his wife teaches classes at the store.

Johanna Fritz

Take care with new machines. Some are not meant for you to oil externally (where you can reach). There is an area deeper in the machine that gets oiled. Putting oil in the "traditional" places can actually mess up the newest machines.

As for price, my machine is about $100 for a full timing check and cleaning, which I do every 2 years. I know computerized machines are more, which mine is only "partially" (Viking Designer - original - with slip in D Cards)
My machine runs SO MUCH better after such a check up. Considering the $$ invested, I consider it money well spent, IMHO. You don't buy expensive, computerized machinery of any kind and not expect any maintenance to keep it in its best running shape.

Bottom line, I always call ahead and shop around. Make sure you know if you are only getting a clean and oil check up or are they taking extra time to check the timing, etc. Find out what they are checking, how long it generally takes, and you should be able to figure out a ball park hourly rate.

thepolyparrot

The only time I've taken my machines in to a shop is when the repair is beyond my ability. My 1970's Kenmores (all mechanical) needed both interior belts replaced, so I had that done along with a regular COA - $125-150.

I spend a lot of money on parts for the old machines that I refurbish, but doing my own maintenance is free and fun. :) Pretty cheap hobby most of the time.

Iamquilter

Around here they have a standard fee of $39.95 where I bought my machine from (a Bernina) and sometimes you can find a coupon in the local paper for $10.00 off.

baglady65

My Bernina 830 was about $80 last year.

jaciqltznok

holy cow...that was crazy...around here $65 for general looking over and cleaning..$90 for the computerized ones.

glad I don't do the yearly thing...I keep them maintained myself...nothing fancy here though..just one Elna, but it is rarely used..

KS quilter

I just traded meachines about 6 months ago and haven't used it much. I've been doing most of my piecing on a Singer
industrial machine (it's an absolute workhorse). I purchased my brother machine at a small town about 35 miles
from me. A yr or so ago think he charged around $30..might
be a bit more. He works out of his own shop at his home.
He's been there for ages.

ManiacQuilter2

I just paid $95.00 for my computer Bernina 1530.