Lipscomb Fiat, Volvo, Isuzu

My Electronic Throttle System failed. The correct diagnosis was quickly made to replace the module, but after trying with 4 modules, none of which would connect with other software in the car (a 14 year old V70 T5), they had to get Volvo in Sweden to log in remotely to look at all the error codes and the software in the car. Eventually they had to drill down to the programming code to write in a link. The charge was the normal charge for installing a replacement ETM. While this wasn't the garage's fault, I have to say that Volvo, unlike most manufacturers, has taken the trouble to fix a 14 year car at no cost to its owner. If your TV, Computer, washing machine, video which has computer software/hardware 14 years old failed, what manufacturer would (a) provide replacement parts and (b) if it didn't work, re-write some programming to make it work? Most manufacturers would shrug off the problem with "we don't make these anymore and they're obsolete, and if you can find a part that matches and it doesn't work, well, that's not our problem... in other words just buy a new one. Volvo is a rare company that takes pride in keeping its old cars on the road, and this example demonstrates that they will go the extra mile on software. Many old cars simply have mechanical parts, but increasingly, to keep a future classic car with an electronic engine managment system on the road will be a problem if the computer chips and programming become old technology that hardly anyone will be able to deal with.