The KitchenAid website answers this question…. It is COMPLETELY normal, esp if you do not use the mixer often, and it is FOOD GRADE oil so it will not harm you if some gets into whatever you're mixing. DO NOT open it and replace the grease, the grease only needs replacing or topping up if the unit makes a grinding noise so don't tamper with it unless it grinds. Why people come to these places to ask questions about their hardware instead of emailing the company that made the item is BEYOND me but good luck