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The Acceleration of
Price-Gouging
The phenomenon of price-gouging
has a fascinating history these past few decades. In the
1970’s most service customers had at least a rudimentary
understanding of automobile repairs, and thus there wasn’t as
much for a service center to hide behind. In the 80’s, with
the increase of advanced emission controls and enhanced electronics,
confusion set in.
The rapid pace of technology kept everyone—technicians and
customers alike, bewildered and guessing. As the 90’s came to
a close, cars were full-blown computers on wheels.
In addition to complex mechanics and electronics, the industry now
encompassed advanced computer technology. Suddenly, sophisticated
technical information and a solid understanding of the interactive
theory between mechanics, electronics, and computers was critical to
fixing cars.
The industry was not ready for this. It’s still not.
With all the
technical confusion from the 80’s and 90’s,
price-gouging took a firm hold. Mechanics could easily hide behind
complex terminology, and wax nostalgic with the client: “They just
don’t make em’ like they used to.”
Suddenly your car needed $300, $400, $1400 computer sensors and
gadgets.
What was really happening is that your mechanic was
learning—he was practicing on your car! Costly computer
devices were often replaced unnecessarily due to misdiagnoses. Or, they
were damaged by improper diagnostic techniques and obsolete testing
equipment. Even though you didn’t need these parts when you
dropped your vehicle off, you did by the time you left, AND you paid for
them. This still happens today—every day.
Learn More About Escalating Car Repair Prices
Why $2,000? With the Y2K scare of 2000, the reliance on computer technology was
clear. Cars were no exception. Automobiles were no longer computers on
wheels; they were now a “network of computers” on
wheels.
Today’s cars think and adapt to the environment. Highly
advanced fiber optic and infra-red technology is commonly used. Ultra
low emissions and flexible fuel systems are increasing faster than gas
prices. Hybrids are
common!
It is in this advanced environment of integrated computer technology
that you will be ripped-off today.
