Temp Knob Freezes Up

I bought this wonderful toaster oven in May of 2005 and have been totally impressed with it...UNTIL a few months ago (aug-sept of 06) when the temp knob became impossible to turn to the toast setting after having baked something the night before.

I'm pretty sure the temp knob not turning is caused by accumulated grease spatters around the dial. I thought I'd take it apart and try cleaning that area, but now the bottom heating rods appear to be barely heating up. I use this oven at least once EVERY day and cook at least a portion of dinner in it each night.

It has been very easy to clean and I love the pull-out tray in the oven bottom, which wipes clean easily.

It is past warranty, so I have no recourse with Rival other than to switch manufacturers on my next toaster oven.