Bosch BSG71370 Bagged Canister Vacuum

We purchased this vacuum cleaner in November 2006. We previously had a Kenmore canister that broke after 5 years. We loved the way the Bosch worked, the quietness and the ease of vacuuming. Our house has mostly hardwood floors & tile and the only carpeting is on our stairs and bedrooms. The vacuum is only used once a week. It lasted 6 months. That's when the fun began. Their customer service is lousy. There is only one service center in California. I live in San Diego and the service center is 600 miles away in SF. In addition, Bosch requires you to mail the vacuum cleaner at your own expense even though it is under warranty. This will be the last product I buy from this manufacturer. I expected more from them especially in this price range.