[hcoles]

Some of the complexity is forced by government regulations. The results include variable valve timing, direct injection, displacement on demand, etc. etc. A bunch of other stuff is not necessary but since electronics are available they invent "features". E.g. auto heat/AC control, seat position memory, nanny controls, abs, auto window rollup, automatic adjustable shocks, auto ride height, auto head lights, etc. etc. All these systems have electronic control modules, software, wires and connectors. So the answer is yes, there is a lot of complexity that is not necessary and is costly to maintain. DIY is getting more and more difficult. Think of where we would be without OBDII.