[Chad C. Mulligan]

In the 1970s you had to trade your car in after five years because it had stopped running. Cars are much better made today.

Very, very true, so far as powertrains go. Something as obvious as selecting a better grade of iron for the blocks changed GM's V6s and V8s from 100k mile grenades to 250k mile champions. I was there.

But it's been an investor's shibboleth for generations to invest heavily in auto parts businesses when the economy goes sour.

Big problem today is finding mechanics. Cars have become far more complex than they were in the '70s, but the job doesn't pay a lot more. At 79, I can't do my own work anymore, and getting an appointment with my local independent shop means 2-3 weeks lead time.

[hinckley buzzard]

That’s why I generally stick to dealers for services. Mechanics there make a mighty fine living, and they never seem short handed.

[Varsity Flight]

Don’t know where your located but Van Auto Service and Tire Pros does good same day work for us. National service warranty