Dear Tom and Ray:

Regarding Y2K, what problems can we anticipate with current models? What about older cars? -- Tony

Tom: As far as we know, there's absolutely nothing to worry about. Of course, I'm spending the fall getting my Schwinn tuned up just in case.

Ray: We've checked with all of the manufacturers, and all of them claim that Y2K problems will have no effect on any of their cars. We can't verify this, but it makes sense. There are really no date-dependent functions in automotive computers, which are the functions most likely to be affected by Y2K problems.

Tom: Wait a minute, I just thought of one! What about cars that display the date on the dashboard? Like Dad's '85 Chrysler New Yorker? On New Year's Day, do you think his dashboard is going to read Jan. 1, 1900?

Ray: I don't know. But now I know where we'll be spending New Year's Eve ... in Dad's car! Watch this space for a complete report in January.

Don't get stuck with a lemon. Be an informed shopper. Read Tom and Ray's guide "How to Buy a Great Used Car: Secrets Only Your Mechanic Knows." To order, send (check or money order) to Ruin, P.O. Box 536475, Orlando, FL 32853-6475. You can also order online.

© 1999 by Tom and Ray Magliozzi and Doug Berman Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.

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