The empty dealer lots of 2021 are gone, but the scars remain. OEMs have moved from "Just-in-Time" to "Just-in-Case" inventory for critical chips.
Centralized Architecture
Furthermore, cars are being redesigned. Instead of 150 tiny disparate chips for doors, windows, and seats, Tesla and others use 3-4 powerful central computers (Zone Controllers). This "Software Defined Vehicle" approach is simpler, lighter, and easier to update, but higher risk if a single node fails.
Impact on Repairability
This centralization makes repairs more expensive. A failed window controller now might mean replacing an entire zone computer costing $1,200. Our Maintenance Data API now includes "Module Programming Required" flags to warn independent shops of these complexities.