[protomok]

"A garage, a manual, tools, any kind of car, the parts. This is a ton of money for one kid, let alone several. To think that this somehow teaches anyone a lesson about the real world is the definition of socioeconomic privilege."

??? Buying tools for car repairs is a one time cost and these tools would be shared by the kids. Car parts are actually not that expensive (can even be almost free if getting a part from a junkyard), much of the cost is in the labour.

Teaching kids problem solving and how to fix things is a critical skill that is lacking badly in our society and applies regardless of the wealth of the family.

If your argument is that some families are not able to afford cars or garages period then they can teach some other skill to their kids...I really don't see how the author is being ignorant, he's just sharing his experience.