Here is an example of why it is over for Detroit

I was talking with a co-worker today about his car in the shop. He has a 1996 Dodge Caravan with 275K miles. YES, I mean two hundred and seventy five thousand miles. He took the van into the shop for leaking valve covers and pan gasket. Here is a transcript of our conversation: ME: You know, that van probably has a book value of $75, and you are spending $675 on fixing oil leaks. HIM: YES, I know, but it has been a very reliable car, We have 275K miles on it, and it has never given a problem until now. ME: Surely you have had a transmission problem, water pump failure, or alternator replacement? HIM: NOPE! Nada! We got the van from my in-laws when it had 29K miles on it, and at 100K miles I told my wife we should trade it in. She insisted on putting 200K miles on it. ME: OK, so you have 275K miles, isn=92t it time to trade. HIM: We decided to see if it will make 300K miles, then we will trade it in for a Honda Odyssey. ME: WAIT A MINUTE! You just said that a Dodge Caravan has 275K trouble free miles for you; wouldn=92t you consider another Caravan? HIM: NOPE! Everything I have read says the Honda is the very best minivan. ME: Wouldn't you at least test drive a Caravan and see what kkind of deal you could get? HIM: NO! The Honda is the best minivan, and that is all I need to know.