Ooooo, that's certainly an experience that'll color one's outlook, kinda the same reason why I won't buy another Dell... Well, my hope is that such a fate won't befall you, and doing the fluid changes (and watching for any seepage which might indicate a seal needs to be changed, which involves some work, but less than a rebuild) will bring you m-a-n-y miles. Be sure to check those electrical connections though, I understand they can get gunked up and loosened.