I have a seven year old Volvo.

It cannot be repaired at a mechanic beyond simple mechanical things. Everything else has to pass through a Volvo dealer because they locked down their software (Vida) and regular mechanics COULD buy it, but it would cost them several thousand dollars a year for the subscription. Unless they are going to specialize, it’s not worth it. I cannot drop my car off at joe’s garage.

There’s no real difference between ICE and electrics in that regard. You can still do basic repairs to an electric like brakes, tires, suspension, etc.

Hate to tell you this, but cars have been like this for about 15 years now.

Been a long time since ol Joe at the gas station could fill the tank and tune your carburetor with a screwdriver.