I have had thirteen Evinrudes and have never had a problem until this last one. New models with the FICHT system seem troublesome. I have no idea or experience with the production since Bombadier took over. I agree with earlier reply that the single best brand would be Yamaha in two stroke or either Yamaha or Honda (a toss-up) in four stroke. My family has three Yamaha 90's and one 150 in two stroke. The 90's are circa 1992 and have never missed a beat (once we had water in fuel but motors weren't to blame). The 150 is only two years old and seems fine. I suggest you pretend you already own one and call for service work, just for a test. How many dealers offer service in your area and what problems have they had with models with which you are interested. Just an idea, good luck!