The gradual fuel consumption creep is exactly how carbon buildup shows itself, no single dramatic moment just a slow decline that's easy to write off as imagination until you actually compare numbers like you did. Stop and go traffic really does accelerate that buildup compared to consistent highway...

Electronic parking brake retraction on modern cars absolutely requires the right diagnostic software and any shop claiming they can do it without a scan tool is either lying or planning to do it the wrong way. Confirm they have the correct software for your specific car before booking anything.

From what I've seen most closed crates in that range do have fork channels molded directly into the base so you can slide a pallet jack straight under without a separate pallet, but it really varies by manufacturer so get them to confirm with a spec sheet not just photos.

Three full summers in Dubai without a single slow start is the real world proof that pays off the upfront cost difference. Most generic brands can't survive one summer here let alone three.