Comment by datavirtue

Definitely cultural. I have been watching engine teardown videos. The difference between the Japanese motors and American motors is stark if you know what to look for. Engineers were clearly in charge of designing every aspect of the Japanese motors. American engines have so many compromises and they flip-flop on internal parts and designs, that look whilly-nilly in comparison.

It's obviously cost cutting niggling and get-it-out-the-door histrionics causing this chaos. There is significant impact to longevity and durability, and required maintenance. Very wasteful from a global warming perspective.

Watch out for these late model ICE engines...do your research. If it's "newly redesigned!" step back and dig in.