I received this as a gift. I love to bake but really only get an opportunity to use my KA once a week. That said, I have had a problem with the small amount of oil from the machinery leaking out of the head of it (I can always wipe oil off of it before baking). I called their customer service and was told that this happens when the machine is not turned on a lot...that the oil seeps into the head and leaks out. WHAT?!?! Sure, it is food grade oil (meaning one can eat it and not get poisoned)but I do not like seeing it in my freshly ground meat or spotting my kneaded bread dough.
Now, before mixing anything, I will turn the machine on for a few minutes to get the oil back up where it belongs as per the directions of the friendly customer service person. She assured me that it was okay-that seeing more than a cup full of oil was bvad but this small amount was ok. (um...ok) That still does not do the trick-I still see oil. During the month of December, I used this mixer almost every day and still had the problem. For what was paid for the Artisan, I should not have to worry about "food grade oil" seeping into my food! Not only that but it cannot be good for the gear assembly for the levels of oil to be constantly seeping out.
After calling several other KA owners and being told they do NOT have this problem, I am going to call KA back and ask for a replacement.Get more detail about KitchenAid KSM150PSER Artisan Series 5-Quart Mixer, Empire Red.
