My B and D 2030 was also unreliable. I got it replaced through the warranty, but while I waited for it to be shipped I bought an "antique" GE iron off Ebay CHEAP. After the replacement arrived, I didn't even open it. I like the old GE that much.
It works great. Really substantial and no problems whatsoever after 6 months.
If you want to know about what's out there, try looking at where all the irons are made now. Every single one at Sears, Target, etc are MADE IN CHINA.
I am glad I got an old GE that was made in the USA. No plastic parts. Still going strong and it is probably older than I am.