It's true, the automotive manufacturers have done this for decades, actually. The long time dream of the automotive industry (think GM, Ford, big companies) has been to make cars "throw away commodities" that people don't fix, they just junk them and refinance for a new one. More money for the companies, banks, etc.
For example these new BMW's have this I-Drive system that consists of something like 12 or 13 different computer modules. If one module goes out, the entire system needs to be replaced, to the tune of 15k just for parts. All of the auto manufacturers are guilty of this, now. They don't want you to fix your car or even pay someone else to fix it, they want you to throw it away and buy a new one. They will never admit this fact on the face, but that is what is going on.
Which is why I will never buy another new car again. I have a particular fondness for 6th and 7th gen Hondas. They made great cars in the 90's and early 00's.. Stay away from any Honda made after 2005 and stay away from most of the other manufacturers made after 2001. Just sayin'... New cars are GARBAGE!!!!!