Old machine developed a leak in the blade assembly. Blade assemblies are not sold by policy. Had to buy full canister assembly. More money than I wanted but less than a new machine.
I purchased my Vita Mix 5000 at a Health Fair in Philadelphia on November 8th 1998. I remember that date as my son was born the day prior. It has served me and my family for almost 21 years now. i used it everyday for 12 years and now several time per week. It just keep going. The only thing i needed to replace just now is the 64 ounce wet container.
Pros: Texture Quality, Durability, Easy to use, Versatility, Power
Had an accident and left a teaspoon in my cacao smoothie not long after we had invested in our Vitamix. It shattered the jug, took chunks out of the blades but still worked for a long time patched up with duct tape. It broke whilst making bullet coffees - the heat must have melted the glue. Thought it must be time to replace it. BUT instead of getting a Vitamix we opted for a ‘professional’ generic one. Whilst it did the job it lacked air holes under the blade - where the jug sits on the motor. This caused warmer smoothies! And I wanted the real macoy! Hence the purchase!! Sometimes it is worth the cost to buy the brand.
Pros: Texture Quality, Durability, Easy to use, Product features, Power
Replaced the container for a Vitamix I purchased many years ago. It has been a workhorse. The new container fits perfectly so did not have to replace the motor base. Saved a lot of money.