It's real simple--it's called customer support. If you purchase online in an attempt to save money, you are not "his" customer unless you actually purchased the product from him. The owner is in the business of making money and has to pay his overhead. Spending time working on a person's RC purchased elsewhere makes no money and takes up time used by an employee who could be doing something like selling RCs or cleaning the counter. An alternative, would simply be to charge those who bring their RCs in for service. Around here, some of the LHS will provide free support for a while but after a few visits, the person usually gets charged a few bucks based on the job. A real automobile is no different--if it breaks down or the owner can't keep it in tune, the mechanic or garage is usually going to charge a fee unless it is on warranty. Ever read the warranty on an RC Car? How long is it? Some RCs do have them, but it is usually not honored by the LHS.