I completely agree with you Roverman. I don't like big brother protecting me by limiting what I can do with the stereo....
...well, I used to think that than I realized there is so much other random crap running when you turn the key a click that the battery doesn't last long anyway. So, its more than likely just a "feature" to cover up one of the trucks power shortfalls. (too many electronics that can't be turned off, as you said.)