Well I think those that have mentioned EMP and lightning risks have a point, although CME (Coronal Mass Ejection) is a most likely eventuality for us. We are way overdue and have the enhanced risk due to magnetic pole shift acceleration and modified electromagnetic defenses that our planet has enjoyed this far in our recent silicone based technological boom period.
I have two VW Touareg TDi's : One made for USA with DPF and DEF with their wide array of problems as well as a Mexican model with the same engine and transmission, but none of the EPA mandated equipment. Neither would work after a CME and/or EMP. No modern car, transformer, substation or boat with a modern electronic engine would work. I can say the Mexican VW is far more powerful, more reliable and gets superior economy.
Also I have the story of my Toyota Hilux Diesel 4x4 with its D4D turbo-charged 4 cylinder 2.8 liter work of art. It will outlast me. I had a top of the line Mercedes Diesel with all wheel drive and it was total garbage. Worst car ever. The Toyota Hilux has oil that still looks clean at 3,000 miles. The MB was dirty like tar in under three blocks. Both the same age, one just built better.
John Deere did go through a major class action lawsuit due to how difficult their modern machines were to work on compared with earlier mechanical models. None of these are "hardened", but farmers that had always maintained and repaired mechanical tractors and combines found themselves required to bring large pieces of farm equipment hundreds of miles to service centers and the farmers revolted with a class action suit. I will look up the public record settlement if anyone is interested.
I do go to remote cruising grounds and even though I am no certified diesel mechanic, I am happy with my naturally aspirated mechanical Ford Lehmans when far, far away from other people. So far they have been almost as reliable as my Hilux.
