Be sure the lid is not backwards. My previous KA had the feed tube by the handle, this dfp-14bcny has the feed tube opposite to the handle, goes on with ease now.

The problem you describe is actually a "safety" feature. Some people are dumb enough to stick their fingers in there to get it working. But everything does have to be locked into place before you can turn it on. And this is true of all makes not just Cuisinart.

For the 14-cup unit, the warranty is at least 20 years for the motor, 3 years for everything else. Call them at 1-800-726-0190 if you can't get it to work after following the troubleshooting instructions.

I just replaced my first Cuisinart - which I got as a wedding present 30 years ago.

Here's the manual:
http://www.cuisinart.com/share/pdf/manuals/fp-14dc.pdf

I just got a new 14-cupper. make sure the bowl is locked in place all the way.

Make absolutely sure the chute on top is clicked all the way down on the lid. This is usually the problem in my experience. Sometimes you really have to lean down on it to get it to totally click in. You should hear it click--the white plastic piece inside the locking mechanism and the clear piece that sticks down vertically from the chute.