Well believe it monkeh, but that is true with most stuff in rip-off Britain, non more so than Boilers.
Could I buy an Electrolux washing machine dryer and expect it to last 40 years as the one I have has, and the same applies to the hoover Fridge same age and still working.
I think all household stuff is designed to fails after 5 years, so the manufacturers can rip you off with outrageous spare part prices.