Winter is here and that does not usually make one think about buying a car. The "car thoughts" triggered by winter turn to wondering whether the old clunker can make it through another winter --or-- whether one can hold on to the parking space in front of the house after shoveling it out. But maybe it would be a good time to start to prepare if you think a car purchase is in the cards for 1996.

The Cambridge Consumers' Council has a very substantial booklet available for you at no cost. It is called "Car Smart, A Consumers' Guide to Buying and Owning a Car in Massachusetts." This 36-page booklet doesn't just talk about the consumer laws and your rights but adds a focus on preparing to buy a car in chapter one: "Doing Your Homework," and the process of buying a car in chapter two: "Making the Deal".

Because of the postage cost I would encourage you to pick up a copy at the Cambridge Senior Center, if you would like one. But if this isn't convenient, one will be mailed upon telephone request to 349-6150.

Another car planning activity for you this winter could certainly prove to be a fun one. For many years two local brothers, Tom and Ray Magliozzi have hosted a radio call-in show on WBUR 90.9 FM. This show, called "Car Talk," is on the radio on Saturday mornings from 11:00 am until 12 noon. These very zany guys have built a national reputation with their insightful ability to successfully analyze car repair problems no one else could figure out. Their show is very humorous and off beat but filled with helpful information and advice. Ray has a garage in Cambridge that does car repairs and Tom is a Boston University professor. Tune in for some fun!

The Consumers' Council has more complaints about cars than any other topic. Thus, any preventative medicine that can be doled out to Cambridge seniors may lighten our work load and certainly may save you money and a hassle at the repair shop or on the car sales lot.

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