I remember when I actually knew how to work on mine. Now I'm just happy that I've figured out how to use my phone.

I have a lot of trouble buying into the idea that we need all this technical sophistication in our automobiles. I can buy into engine management systems for the purpose of meeting performance, fuel economy and emission requirements. But even in that area I believe we do not require computer code that is so complex and sophisticated that it needs to be some kind of trade secret. I remain deeply suspicious of the idea that a manufacturer needs some secret mathematical functions to operate the valves, fuel injectors or ignition timing of an engine let alone steering, brakes, suspension, etc.

If people want to buy automobiles with locked "hoods" (literally or figuratively) then that's fine. They deserve whatever their laziness/stupidity brings to them. But I won't buy something like that as long as I can drive a vehicle I can maintain myself if I want or need to.

To me any manufacturer that chooses the locked hood alternative best not fail the fundamental requirement of any automobile or truck: That is to carry you from origin to destination without failing and leaving you sitting at the side of the road somewhere between those two points.

And about "Right to Repair laws? Go for it. I don't think the car companies will have any trouble making money under those conditions. They might even sell more vehicles than with the current program if the maintenance of the vehicles is cheaper through more competition and simplicity. We are coming into an era of fiscal stress at every level and part of society. Overly complex personal cars may just become a market loser like "McMansions", $100 restaurant meals and the latest, $140 blue jeans with some fancy clothier's name on the label.

Ed Weldon

Ed wrote

"I have a lot of trouble buying into the idea that we need all this technical sophistication in our automobiles"

Bravo Ed!

Formula One racing has been consumed by a pointless technological frenzy to where the machines are no long cars but emasculated airplanes.

F1 was better in the 60's. Cars were too

L.J.

"Future Nissan Cars Will Spray Vitamin C to Keep Passengers Healthy"

Hopefully we'll be able to work on that system ourselves...

If I can't fix it with a length of fencing wire, a pair of pliers and a rock it aint worth much to me in the bush...

Why should a automobile maker have to give up their trade secrets? It's like KFC giving away it's secret blend of spices.

I can't remember the last time I needed to repair a leg-and-thigh combo.

Maybe you just have the wrong kind of vehicle.