My almost five year old KitchenAid Artisan stand mixer is sick. I talked to the KitchenAid service line, and they think the problem is likely stripped gears, which they tell me will be at least $100 to fix. There is also a $32 charge to have the mixer shipped to KA, and a $25 diagnostic fee.

I feel like I'm at a crossroads. I had been thinking about upgrading to a nicer mixer anyways, so maybe this is the time. Should I go with KitchenAid again? Or does anyone else have recommendations for another brand of mixer. I'm less than impressed with the KA service on this issue ($50+ just to look at a $250 machine seems steep). Any feedback is appreciated!