The economic downturn may be kicking up more than just concerns about finances these days, as some counties are increasingly likely to save money in paving costs by transforming local streets into gravel roadways.

For those looking at used cars in New York and other states, a new paint job or recently remodeled car could bear the brunt of the cost-saving measures which are one option for governments looking to save money.

In Michigan, CBS affiliate WWMT says that some rural roads are now going unpaved, a trend that has begun to extend from the state where it is most popular.

“Our survey results indicate the accuracy of this predication,” said John Niemela, County Road Association of Michigan director in a report on roads in the state. “We are literally reverting to the stone age,” as state funding has dropped and maintenance work is either reduced or avoided entirely.

Road conditions like those should be avoided by those who may have gotten new paint jobs for used cars in New York, several paint companies say, because the gravel can kick up and erode the clearcoat finish.

The next two months may be a good time for consumers looking to buy a used car in New York who were waiting to get a bargain.

Sometimes an end-of-the-month car purchase may yield some extra savings for the customer if the dealership they are buying from is running below their targeted quotas, the LeafChronicle.com reports. And it just so happens that July and August is a typically slow time in the market in terms of car sales.

However, there still may be more of a reason to wait, especially if a buyer wants more of a selection. Kathleen Calligan from the Better Business Bureau of Middle Tennessee told the news provider that September often has many used cars on the market since that’s when many consumers buy new or trade in.

Earlier this year, AOL Autos published a list of some of the best used cars under $20,000 a person could currently buy.

People looking into a decent sports car may be interested to know that the 2006 Pontiac GTO made the list, calling it “one of the best sports car deals available” with a V8 engine and 400 hp.

For those who are looking for a used car in New York as their first vehicle purchase, they may want to heed the advice from a national magazine with a list of debunked summertime myths.

Before vacationers hit the open road, Popular Mechanics has answered some common questions about car maintenance in the summer, especially for used cars.

While a new vehicle may be able to function on thinner engine oil, such as 5W-5, it’s important for used car buyers that their vehicles will be different.

Most used cars require thicker oil in the summer with many car manufacturers listing 10W-30 as good for driving in higher temperatures.

There are some older used cars that may require 10W-40, though the magazine suggested people consult the vehicle’s user manual before using that kind of oil.

In terms of coolant, the mixture is the same whether or not a person has a new or used car: it’s 50 percent coolant and 50 percent water.

Finally, and this may be of importance to first-time drivers, Popular Mechanics reminds summer vacationers that if they find their engine overheating, it’s time to turn off the air conditioner and turn on the heat.

For some who enjoy caffeine, test driving used cars in New York may help them make an informed decision about their car based on the feel of the interior and the car’s handling characteristics.

But depending on what cola they drink, they could have a shot at test-driving a tube-chassis, V-8 powered NASCAR racecar, too.

Coke Zero is sponsoring a ride-along with a NASCAR driver for people who register at the MyCokeRewards website.

The contest “is making it possible for race fans to experience the real speed and power of a stock car,” said Greg Biffle, driver of the #16 Ford Fusion. “The fan who rides with me better hang on tight, because I plan on pushing the pedal to the floor and showing why Atlanta Motor Speedway is one of the fastest tracks in NASCAR.”

If they watch the Coke Zero 400 on July 4, the four winning fans will be able to check out the Atlanta Motor Speedway in Biffle’s car, though it may not be a daily driver like some used cars in New York.

For those looking at buying a used car in New York or New Jersey, the better business bureau in neighboring Connecticut has offered some guidelines in making the right choice for a purchase.

While a computer can help make the process easier, even offline work could lead to a more-informed purchase, including talking to friends and family about experiences with various cars and trucks.

Many local libraries have copies of the National Automotive Dealers Association Official Used Car Guide, and other resources include print versions of Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds, which help potential buyers understand what prices they can expect to pay for different makes and models.

“Buying a used vehicle requires homework and planning to ensure that an attractively-priced used car or truck doesn’t have hidden problems that can turn it into a very costly investment in the long run,” says Paulette Scarpetti, Connecticut Better Business Bureau president.

Another hidden cost may be repairs based on recall announcements from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration; interested buyers can call a toll-free number or visit the government organization’s website.

Find used cars in New York with New Jersey State Auto