The answer turns almost entirely on the frame.
Metal-framed machines are worth repairing, usually many times over. They were built to be serviced, parts are often still available or interchangeable, and the mechanism does not go out of date. A service costs a fraction of a new machine and buys you years. Machines from the 1950s and 60s are still in daily use for this reason.
Light plastic-framed machines usually are not. Once the frame has flexed enough to affect timing, re-timing it is treating a symptom. The repair may cost more than the machine is worth, and the fault will return.
Computerised machines sit in between. Mechanical faults are worth fixing. A failed control board often is not, because the part may no longer be made — and after some years it will not be.
Before you decide, rule out the cheap explanations. A very large share of machines declared dead need cleaning and a new needle. Do that first — it costs nothing and it resolves the question surprisingly often.
Get a quote before committing. A workshop will usually tell you honestly whether a machine is worth the work, and most will say so rather than take the money.
One thing worth remembering: a serviced older metal machine is frequently a better buy than a new machine at the same price.
Questions people actually ask
How much is a service?
It varies by country and by machine, but it is typically a small fraction of a new machine and includes cleaning, oiling, timing check and tension adjustment.
My machine belonged to my grandmother.
If it is metal-framed, it is almost certainly worth servicing and will likely outlast anything you could buy new at the same cost.
Last reviewed 2026-08-11