I think that this was not exclusive from germany. It was a global change of paradigm
Every single big car brand experienced a period of very confused years (bordering panic for some of them) between 2000 and 2005 IMHO when faced the truth that the old trustable mechanics must either be replaced by mechatronica in a rush, or be overcomed and left behind by the new competitors.
Some so-so models were hurriedly launched in those years as result. Some of those soon started suffering lots of random errors and must be recalled and eventually replaced.
Cars now are computers with tires, all coated in plastic. Metal is ethernal, electronics not so much. Do not expect this soft and delicate matherials to last much more than your computer.
Every single big car brand experienced a period of very confused years (bordering panic for some of them) between 2000 and 2005 IMHO when faced the truth that the old trustable mechanics must either be replaced by mechatronica in a rush, or be overcomed and left behind by the new competitors.
Some so-so models were hurriedly launched in those years as result. Some of those soon started suffering lots of random errors and must be recalled and eventually replaced.
Cars now are computers with tires, all coated in plastic. Metal is ethernal, electronics not so much. Do not expect this soft and delicate matherials to last much more than your computer.