[jshorva65]

The reason for the high failure rate of caps in video gear when the rates of failure of similar caps in GM engine controllers is much lower can be explained very simply. The problem is the "Subscription Model" strategy employed by some manufacturers (started by the Japanese, but adopted by others in "monkey see, monkey do" fashion). The model is based on the principle that technology advances so quickly as to justify the manufacture of devices with built-in failures planned to occur just before the device becomes superseded by a more desirable product. Like a magazine or newspaper subscription, the consumers are meant to throw away the outdated "issues" and buy the latest ones to replace them. The built-in failures force all consumers (not just tech-heads who insist on having the latest bells and whistles) to join the cycle. The disease has not spread to the auto industry YET because the automotive marketplace hasn't degenerated to that point yet. Automakers such as Daewoo and Kia haven't succeeded in putting GM and Ford out of business just yet like Sanyo and Sony have done to Fisher, RCA, Dumont and other manufacturers of built-to-last audio/video products.