Sewing machine chugging and slow

[storynanny2]

Machine is only 5 years old and I have cleaned out the lint but it has suddenly started going slower and making a chugging noise. Still sewing evenly but something is obviously not right. Any ideas as to what I could try at home before taking it in to a repair shop?
It's an Elna machine 2600.
Out of interest if I buy a new machine what are the current recommendations? Don't need fancy embroidery stitches just for basic home sewing using all sorts of fabrics.
Thanks

Have you oiled it, I would read the manual, find a you tube clip on servicing your (or any other) machine. If it doesn't work properly think about having it serviced.

New machine wise SMD offer good sensible advice, I would speak to them, tell them your budget and what you want it for and let them suggest something for you to consider. They have a good range of manufacturers and machines, you don't have to take their advice but they are in a good place to give it as they sell so many.

Get it serviced. My 1970s elna stopped working completely and made some terrible noises prior to that.
I thought for sure it was a goner - after all it was 40 years old. But it was running like new after the repair man replaced a part £20 and gave it a good clean.

I would change the needle and check needle is correct for fabric.

Re-thread the machine and check upper and lower tensions are set correctly.

Give it an oil.

If still not running well, it needs a service.

HTH