Think whatever you wish. I'm just telling you what I witnessed from years of consumer car repair. Long since left that career behind, thankfully.
Most radiators develop issues due to the coolant not being changed as specified, then the coolant becomes acidic, and things start to corrode, then you get the 'pink milkshake'.
His two replaced starters very likely only needed new solenoid contacts. But someone decided to sell new starters, and make more profit.
Changing gear oil and making sure the vents are not plugged in the axles, T-case, etc. prolongs the life of the seals.
Lubing any bearings or joints that are not LFL, prolongs their service life.
The examples go on and on.
The simple fact is most people don't maintain their vehicles as well as they could be maintained.
Well I'm inspired now with my new vehicle. All I've ever bought have been used vehicles with 100k+ and things breaking has just been a way of life. I follow the oem maintenance intervals once I buy them, but who no idea what the previous owner did. Also mostly German and American cars so who knows.... Though my 97 4runner has had its share of odd stuff.