Bernina 535 Problems : 6 Common Issues (Explained)

Knowing which problems your sewing machine is likely to face can better prepare you when it comes to resolving the issues. This article focuses on the Bernina 535 problems and how you can easily resolve them from the comfort of your house.

Table of Contents

What Is Bernina 535?

The Bernina 535 is a sewing machine that has an adaptive thread tension which makes it easier for you to achieve beautiful stitch results every time. The machine also has an on-screen support system that has a touch screen which you can use to adjust your settings. This machine is highly durable and can last you a lifetime if you maintain it properly.

Bernina 535 Problems

NB: Bernina 535 sewing machines are sold whilst they are in perfect condition and the problems indicated below are usually influenced by human error or wear and tear experienced by the machine.

1. Software Update Problems

Bernina sewing machines are run by a software which needs to be updated occasionally and some users may experience problems when trying to install the updates. This problem usually occurs when the following factors are present;

  • You might be using a USB stick that is not from Bernina.
  • The update process might be blocked.
  • The update data may not be found in the USB stick.

Troubleshooting Software Update Problems

If you are having a hard time updating the software of your Bernina 535 sewing machine, here are a few techniques that you can try in order to help resolve the issue.

  • Use a Bernina USB stick when trying to install the update.
  • If the update process is blocked, you should remove the USB stick and then switch the machine off and on again. A set of instructions will appear on the screen and you will have to follow them.
  • If the update data is not found, make sure you unzip it and transfer it onto the USB stick.

2. Stitch Width Does Not Adjust

The Bernina 535 sometimes faces problems with adjusting the stitch width. This problem usually occurs when the selected needle and stitch plate cannot be used in combination.

Troubleshooting Stitch Width Does Not Adjust Problem

If you notice that the stitch width of your Bernina 535 is refusing to adjust, please do the following;

  • Replace the needle.
  • Replace the stitch plate.

3. Lower Thread Breaks

The lower thread of a Bernina 535 has a tendency of breaking especially when any of the following factors are present;

  • The bobbin case is damaged.
  • Needle is bent or blunt.
  • Stitch hole in stitch plate is damaged.

Troubleshooting Lower Thread Breaks Problem

When the lower thread of your Bernina 535 keeps breaking here are a few techniques you can use in order to resolve the problem.

  • If bobbin case is damaged, replace it with a new one.
  • If the needle is bent or blunt, replace it with a new one.
  • If stitch hole is damaged you can either fix it or replace the stitch plate.

4. Uneven Stitch Formation

Sometimes the Bernina 535 can have an uneven stitch formation and this can be frustrating for many users. This problem is usually caused by any of the following;

  • Upper thread might be too tight or too loose.
  • The needle might be bent or blunt
  • The thread used might be poor quality.
  • Needle to thread combination might be incorrect.
  • Machine might be incorrectly threaded.
  • Fabric might have been pulled.

Troubleshooting Uneven Stitch Formation Problem

When you notice that your Bernina 535 is producing uneven stitches, here are a few methods you can use to try and resolve the problem;

  • Adjust the upper thread tension.
  • If the needle is bent or blunt, replace it with a new one.
  • Use quality threads when sewing.
  • Match the needle with the correct thread size.
  • Rethread the machine using the correct method.
  • Feed the fabric evenly into the machine when sewing.

5. Skipped Stitches

The Bernina 535 can sometimes produce skipped stitches on your fabric. This problem usually occurs when the following factors are present;

  • Needle might be burnt or blunt.
  • You may have used the incorrect needle for the fabric you are sewing.
  • Needle might be wrongly inserted into the machine.
  • You might have an incorrect needle point.

Troubleshooting Skipped Stitches Problem

When your Bernina 535 is producing skipped stitches, here are a few techniques you can use to try and resolve the problem;

  • Make sure you are using a good quality needle that is not bent or blunt.
  • Use the correct needle for the fabric which you are sewing.
  • Make sure the needle is inserted correctly into the machine.
  • Match the needle point to the texture of your fabric.

6. Machine Does Not Start

Another problem which you may experience with the Bernina 535 is that the machine might refuse to start.  This problem is usually caused by the following factors;

  • Machine might not be connected to the mains power supply.
  • The machine might be placed in a room that has unfavorable temperatures.
  • The machine might be damaged.

Troubleshooting Machine Does Not Start Problem

If you notice that your machine is not starting please use the following methods to troubleshoot the problem;

  • Check whether machine is correctly connected to the mains power supply.
  • Put machine in a warm room and let it sit for an hour before turning it on.
  • If the machine refuses to turn on after trying all of the above, the machine might be damaged and you need to take it to a reputable repairer to have it fixed.

How Long Should A Bernina Sewing Machine Last?

A Bernina sewing machine should last you for 20 to 25 years if you take good care of it. This means that you have to service it once a year and always clean it to remove lint or debris that may be trapped inside the machine.

Conclusion

The Bernina 535 is a great sewing machine to own and while it may succumb to problems in the future, these problems can easily be fixed. So if you are thinking of purchasing the Bernina 535, don’t let this article discourage you from doing so.