3 major forces coming together in my opinion.

1. The American consumer demanded it. Today's consumer wants lower prices, convenient hours, and large variety of items. Same mentality that we have seen with mom and pop hardwares stores, auto parts stores, etc... Yes the consumer is partly to blame.

2. Automobile manufacturers have made it difficult for a 3 bay service station to keep up on technology, tools, and training. You need multiple bays to really do it correctly and make a nice profit.

3. The oil companies realized by getting rid of the dealer network they control the product from the ground, to the refinery, and ultimately your car. And trust me, they are making more money on that gas than what you think..it's not just cokes and smokes making them profitable.

I don't understand Dick's answer. Please help.
And yes i feel a little better

Here is a video I found from a couple of years ago.... Not sure if the Station has survived, I hope it has... I also hope that if it has, they are still preforming truly "Full Service" for their customers....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bnrG4CqsMLI&feature=related