Posted on 5/3/2013
Ever since he was a boy, Uptown Auto Specialist (501 S. Carrollton Ave., 504-866-8392; www.myuptownauto.com) owner Paul Cosma dreamed of owning an auto-repair shop. He started out working at car dealerships and independent garages, and when he moved to New Orleans from northeastern Ohio more than 30 years ago, Cosma immediately found a location to open his shop. He hasn't moved since. Uptown Auto Specialist provides a full range of car repairs and a complete body shop specializing in German-made vehicles. The shop also offers pre-purchase inspections, so customers know a used car's condition before they buy it. Cosma stresses the importance of inspections. He's encountered people planning to buy $8,000 cars who are shocked and disappointed to find out the vehicle needs $3,000 worth of repairs. Along with pre-purchase inspections, routine maintenance is key to ensuring a car lasts for the long haul, Cosma says. Even though the need for frequent oi ... read more