It could also be argued that there is an asymmetry of information. Consider trying to figure out how reliable a product is. By eliminating third-party servicing, it is very easy to conceal a product's failure rate. There is a strong conflict of interest in obtaining that information from vendors. Anecdotal information from consumers is going to be highly biased (one way or the other). While obtaining that information from people who repair equipment has its problems, they will have a better perspective.