mm_flynn
Quite agree.
I've flown recently with 2 other pilot owners. One owns a C172 and the other a PA28.
They have transponders that have problematic Mode C's but are OK in Mode A. As it isn't mandatory to carry one, they consider it is way down their lists of priorities, especially given the bills they have had to pay for the ARC renewals this year.
As mine is going through its annual now, and the bills are stacking up nicely, my plan to upgrade my radios has just been abandoned.