Originally Posted by Zacharias

This sort of thing is happening more often.

The problem is, the older mechanics that really knew the older cars are retiring, so even a larger a shop may only have one guy left who they trust to do anything beyond basic service on the older cars.

Meanwhile, shops have to make ongoing investments in technology, equipment and training for the younger techs to work on the newer cars -- which is where the money is as well. It isn't easy to 'back train' the newer techs on the old technology.

Around here I think they use more finesse in delivering the message... you call them up with an urgent issue and they offer to make an appointment for you... in three weeks. That sort of sends the message.

One member's mother just purchased a mint w123 240d and when she went to get the provincial roadworthiness inspection done, in order to plate it, she had a devil of a time finding a shop that would even roll the car inside due to its age. Many stated flat out they won't even look at a car over 15 years old.

Now THAT is scary, when you can't even have the government inspection done.