Baby Safety Month: The Safest Chevy Cars & Car Seat Installation Tips

With September being Baby Safety Month, Dimmitt Chevrolet encourages all parents—from moms and dads who’re just learning the ropes to those who’ve already been around the proverbial block—to double- and triple-check their car seats, review their vehicle’s safety ratings, and stay abreast of updated Florida car seat laws. As the back-to-school season kicks into high gear, there’s no better time to ensure your child is safeguarded in the back seat.

Fill up on the resources below, and come to our Chevy dealership if you need an upgrade in safety. We have a large selection of modern, new Chevy cars and quality used cars for sale in Clearwater that will protect you and your family’s wellbeing in the event of an accident.

2016 Chevrolet Malibu: The Right Way to Reinvent the Wheel

Having accepted the criticisms of its previous Malibu models, Chevy recast its mold and designed what may be the year’s most-improved car. The newly upgraded 2016 Chevrolet Malibu boasts a leaner and longer frame, lighter 1.5L four-cylinder engine, and modern interior that out-duels its midsize competitors—all while proving that new cars are more than affordable. As the premier new and used car dealer in Clearwater, we at Dimmitt Chevrolet are proud to have the newest Malibu in stock and revving to go.

Passenger-Friendly Comforts Abound

What sets apart the 2016 Malibu from its predecessors is its interior, especially the superb spaciousness. Despite only modest changes made to its previous models’ length—only 2.3” length added overall—the newest 2016 Malibu feels much roomier. Chevy added more than an inch of leg room in the rear, and lowered the newly lengthened front seats and patterned dash to increase headroom throughout the cabin. Amazingly, these fairly minor alterations seem to be transformative, as the car feels better suited to the category of “full-size sedan” rather than its current “midsize” class.

Dimmitt Chevrolet Earns One of Tampa Bay’s Best Places to Work Awards for Second Year

CLEARWATER, Fla. – For the second consecutive year Dimmitt Chevrolet was named one of Tampa Bay’s top 100 places to work by the Tampa Bay Times. 

This year Dimmitt Chevrolet earned fifth place among area small businesses according to the Tampa Bay Times. 

Dimmitt Chevrolet and the other 99 honorees were selected by a survey of over 30,000 employees in the Tampa Bay area. The 92-year-old dealership has been a staple in the Tampa Bay community for nearly a century and employs 120 people.

“Being named two years in a row as one of the best employers in Tampa Bay is an honor, one that we are thrilled to receive,” said Scott Collore, general manager of Dimmitt Chevrolet. “It is really a testament to our continued commitment of excellence to our employees, customers and community.” 

The Top Workplaces lists are based solely on the results of an employee feedback survey administered by WorkplaceDynamics, LLC, a leading research firm that specializes in organizational health and workplace improvement. Several aspects of workplace culture were measured, including alignment, execution, and connection.

The Top Workplaces award is not a popularity contest. And oftentimes, people assume it’s all about fancy perks and benefits.” said Doug Claffey, CEO of WorkplaceDynamics. “But to be a Top Workplace, organizations must meet our strict standards for organizational health. And who better to ask about work life than the people who live the culture every day—the employees.”

Job seekers interested in joining the Dimmitt Chevrolet family are encouraged to stop by the dealership to fill out an application. 

For media inquiries and interview requests, contact Judge Public Relations at (813) 279-8335 or contact@judgepr.com.

About Dimmitt Chevrolet: 
Dimmitt Chevrolet was established in Clearwater, Florida in 1924 and employs more than 120 people. The car dealership was selected as the best auto dealership for 2015 by Creative Loafing’s Best of the Bay. Dimmitt Chevrolet was also named one of Tampa Bay's top 100 places to work by the Tampa Bay Times in 2015. 

About WorkplaceDynamics, LLC:
Headquartered in Exton, PA, WorkplaceDynamics specializes in employee feedback surveys and workplace improvement. This year alone, more than two million employees in over 6,000 organizations will participate in the Top Workplaces™ campaign—a program it conducts in partnership with more than 40 prestigious media partners across the United States. Workplace Dynamics also provides consulting services to improve employee engagement and organizational health. WorkplaceDynamics is a founding B Corporation member, a coalition of organizations that are leading a global movement to redefine success in business by offering a positive vision of a better way to do business.

Dimmitt Chevrolet Previews The All-New 2016 Chevy Cruze

Dimmitt Chevrolet, your local Clearwater, Florida new and used car Chevy dealer, gives you a sneak peek at the stunning, all-new 2016 Chevy Cruze.

Dressed To Thrill

The 2016 Chevy Cruze gets noticed with fresh new exterior styling that's impressive from any angle. Looking like it costs thousands more, the Cruze wears an expressive, sculpted Euro-style body with fluid, contemporary lines that accentuate aerodynamic efficiency. According to Bengt Halvorson of TheCarConnection.com, the 2016 Cruze's styling "…takes advantage of wind-tunnel testing done for the Volt, yet inherits some of the chiseled, handsome look…that's been introduced in the larger Malibu." "It's lower, leaner, and sportier, as well as a significant three inches added to the overall length and an inch more wheelbase than its predecessor," adds Halvorson. "This translates to two inches of additional rear legroom, with the Cruze offering more rear knee room than the Ford Focus or Hyundai Elantra."

Surprisingly Well Appointed Interior

Whether heading uptown for a night out or down the highway for a weekend getaway, the new Cruze's upgraded and roomier interior gets you there in a style that doesn't scrimp on quality or creature comforts. Bengt Halvorson of TheCarConnection.com says, "Since the Cruze is a global model, selling as an upmarket sedan in some markets, it carries an ‘upscale ambience’ inside, with a dual cockpit look and more fine details."

The Cruze's interior also gets high marks for its more spacious interior. No less than Consumer Reports says, "... The new Cruze strikes us as a big step forward. One of the biggest updates comes in the rear seat, where passengers no longer need Japanese subway pushers to cram them inside. It’s one of the roomiest back seats in the class, with plenty of leg and foot room even for six-footers. In fact, the rear seats look like they have more legroom than Chevy’s next larger sedan, the Malibu…Some versions even pamper rear-seat occupants with their own seat heaters — a rare treat in a small car."

Get behind the three-spoke sports steering wheel of the new Chevy Cruze and take command of the road ahead. Chevy engineers paid special attention to all the details, ensuring that your daily drive is as effortless and comfortable as possible. You'd expect to pay more for the convenience of handy steering wheel-mounted controls that put an array of key functions at your fingertips. Two large sport analog gauges trimmed in chrome bracket an advanced driver information center that offers vital vehicle information at a glance.

Corvette Owners Rev Up to Fight Pediatric Cancer

The 18th annual Bay Area Corvette Club Show at Dimmitt Chevrolet in Clearwater will benefit the Pediatric Cancer Foundation.

The show is scheduled to roll into Dimmitt Chevrolet on Oct. 17, from 8 a.m. until 3 p.m. Opening ceremonies are set for 11 a.m.

Each year the club chooses a nonprofit organization to benefit from money raised. The cancer foundation was announced as this year’s recipient. The organization will receive proceeds from entry fees, chance drawing tickets, a 50/50 raffle and a live auction.

“We hold this show once a year with the intent of raising money for a specific charity the club selects early in the year,” said Jack Tipton, president of the Bay Area Corvette Club.

Visitors who stop by the show will find entry is free and more than 100 cars are expected. A total of 11 classes of Corvettes should be on site, representing the seven generations of the Corvette from C1 to C7, plus a class for modified and custom. The Top 3 cars in each class will receive trophies.

While the show is still a few weeks away, Corvette owners who want to show off their rides will find there’s still time to enter. Information is available on the Bay Area Corvette Club website. The cost to enter is $25 for preregistration and $30 on the day of the show.

Photo courtesy of the Bay Area Corvette Club

Clearwater Tire Store at Dimmitt Chevrolet Announces 30-Day Price Match Guarantee on Tires

Dimmitt Chevrolet's all new Clearwater Tire Store has announced it's 30-Day Price Match Guarantee on Tires. Buy select brand tires and if you find a better price within 30 days of purchase, we'll refund the difference!††

Tires can be a challenging purchase, but don't worry; your friends at Dimmitt Chevrolet are here to help our Clearwater and Tampa Bay area, FL customers through the buying process. We carry all of the top brands of new tires for your Chevy car, truck or SUV, including: BFGoodrich, Bridgestone, Continental, Dunlop, Firestone, Pirelli, and more. The Certified GM technicians at Dimmitt Chevrolet are your tire experts, so you can relax snd be sure we will help you select the right set that matches your needs and budget.

Your tires are the first and only contact with the road, so it’s important to choose the right set. Our Tire Finder tool makes it quick and easy to find tires for any vehicle. Use the drop-down menus to select your vehicle information and navigate your search. Once you’ve selected your new tires, the Certified Service expert technicians can handle all of your tire needs at your scheduled appointment—it’s that simple.

Dimmitt Chevrolet has been servicing Pinellas County and all of the Tampa Bay area including the communities of Clearwater, Dunedin, Palm Harbor, Tarpon Springs, Largo and St. Petersburg since 1924. Call (866-457-8854) or visit our Service Department to get a free evaluation from our tire specialists.

††Ad, written estimate, or Internet quote for identical tire(s) from a competing tire retailer/installer located within 100 miles of the Dimmitt Chevrolet required during guarantee period for price match.

Everyday Hero at Dimmitt Chevrolet

The Chevrolet Everyday Hero All Star Award is a great achievement and honor. Our very own Christopher Nance was one of only five people in the nation to earn this distinction. This is his story...

A few months ago a young couple broke down on the service road out front of the dealership just before closing. They were driving a GMC Sierra pick-up truck loaded with furniture and belongings. Sales consultant, Chris Nance went out to greet the couple to ask them if they needed help. Politely they said they were ok.  After closing the store Chris, drove over to the couple in his truck and offered assistance again. They were borrowing the vehicle from a family friend to help them move to the area. They stated that they could not reach the friend for assistance. Chris checked under their vehicle for a spare tire but unfortunately there was none. Chris proceeded to take the spare tire off of his personal truck and changed the flat tire for them.

The next day, Chris had their tire patched for them. When the gentleman came to pick up the tire he was very surprised and thankful.

Chris has now been named a Chevrolet Everyday Hero All Star!   He is truly embracing the principles of the Everyday Hero Program!  His recognition reflects well on all of us at Dimmitt Chevrolet.  Chris will be traveling to Las Vegas in June to participate in the 2015 Find New Roads Experience as one of only 5 winners in the country!  Congratulations Chris!

 

 

 

 Christopher Nance, at the Everyday Hero Awards, in Las Vegas with Kid Rock and Michelle Damouni before the VIP concert.

Dimmitt Chevrolet goes to bat for Countryside Little League

CLEARWATER, Fla. – Dimmitt Chevrolet donated funds, new equipment, invitations to instructional clinics and a test-drive fundraising opportunity to Countryside Little League in Clearwater this April as a part of Chevrolet Youth Baseball.

The equipment included bags, batting tees, catcher’s gear, water bottles, bases and home plates.

“Baseball is a sport that I absolutely love and believe in as a valuable tool to develop leadership and team-building skills,” said Scott Collore, general manager of Dimmitt Chevrolet. “I hope with this donation, these children will experience some of those same valuable lessons many of us have learned through such an enjoyable game.” 

In addition to the gear, the sponsorship also includes youth clinics featuring current and former MLB and MiLB players, coaches and instructors from Ripken Baseball and the Major League Baseball Players Alumni Association.

Countryside Little League also received a $500 contribution from Dimmitt and the opportunity to raise more funds with a test-drive fundraiser.

Chevrolet Youth Baseball was established 10 years ago and has helped aid more than 3.5 million young people in communities where Chevrolet’s customers live, work and play. In 2014, more than 1,600 Chevrolet dealers participated in the program across the country.

Chevrolet is the Official Vehicle of Major League Baseball.

About Dimmitt Chevrolet

Dimmitt Chevrolet was founded in 1924 by Lawrence Dimmitt Jr., in downtown Clearwater, Florida. Today, both Lawrence Dimmitt III and Lawrence Dimmitt IV work at the dealership and oversee the daily operations. In 1985, the dealership was moved to 25485 U.S. Highway 19 North and the Dimmitt family has been there providing quality automobiles and quality service, ever since. For more information, visit dimmittchev.com.

About Chevrolet
Founded in 1911 in Detroit, Chevrolet is now one of the world's largest car brands, doing business in more than 140 countries and selling 4.8 million cars and trucks a year. Chevrolet provides customers with fuel-efficient vehicles that feature engaging performance, design that makes the heart beat, passive and active safety features and easy-to-use technology, all at a value. More information on Chevrolet models can be found at chevrolet.com.

10 Fun Holiday Events in Clearwater, St. Pete & Tampa

It’s a festive time of year, and here in Clearwater and St. Pete the excitement is building for the upcoming holiday season. There are plenty of fun-filled events throughout the area that will help you and your family get into the holiday spirit. So to help you plan your activities this December, we’ve put together our list of ten fun holiday events for you and your family to enjoy.

Holiday events in Clearwater & St. Pete. Photo credits: visitstpeteclearwater.com

1. Busch Gardens Tampa Christmas Town – Through 12/31. Now included with your park admission, this holiday family favorite features a million lights, special holiday shows, Mrs. Claus’ Family Feast, and a visit by St. Nick himself.

5 Ways to Celebrate Father’s Day

According to a spending survey conducted by BIGinsight, the average person will spend about $120 on Father’s Day gifts this year. Instead of sticking to the usual traditional clothing and electronic gifts, why not surprise Dad with a special outing.

Clearwater, Florida is home to some of the clearest beaches and most captivating attractions. From the SeaWorld adventure park to pirate cruises and daily festivals, there’s always lots to do and lot’s to see. Make this summer all about bringing out the child within. Here’s a fun-filled activity guide to help you plan the perfect outing with Dad:

Stop by the Clearwater Marine Aquarium 

The Clearwater Marine Aquarium offers fun encounters with dolphins, stingrays and sharks. Come prepared to get a little wet working alongside one of the aquariums trainers. With lots of opportunities to take awesome pictures, you will get to keep the memories with you forever. Visit the Clearwater Marine Aquarium website for more info.  

Ride a Wave at the Surf-Style Flowrider

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6tsXj2N7JRI

Giving the man who taught you how to ride your first bike another boring tie on Father's Day isn’t going to cut it. Why not bring out Dad’s inner child with some summer-fun at the Surf-Style Flowrider. Besides, it’s never too late to learn how to surf. There’s no need for experience and no age restrictions, all you need is a fun-loving spirit. The Surf-Style Flowrider is open every day from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Find out more information here.

Take a Swing at the Congo River Adventure Golf Course

According to TripAdvisor, The Congo River Adventure Golf course is one of Clearwater’s top 10 attractions. It is a unique course where you can enjoy a round of miniature golf while exploring and enjoying a scenic view. To top it off, you’ll experience your closest encounter with over 20 live gators that you’ll get to feed. The Congo River Adventure Golf course is full of fun activities and exclusive photo opportunities. Get more info here.

The best thing about making memories in the Clearwater region it is that it’s fun and effortless. Why not give Dad the best gift this Father’s Day by creating extraordinary memories he’ll never forget. 

Before you hit the road, here are a few tips to help you get there safely.

Special Offer: 2014 Chevrolet Camaro LS

2014 Chevrolet Camaro LS

MSRP:	$24,450
Qualifying Incentives:	$1,000
Cash or Trade:	$3,000
Rebate:	$1,500
Conquest:	$1,000
Bonus Cash:	$500
From Dimmitt:	$1,953
$15,497*	Lease for $179 (24m/10k/year)

* For full details, please see Dimmitt Chevrolet's Weekly Ad.

 Call us at 888-867-1203 to speak to a sales consultant today!

Car Themed Gifts for Recent Grads

“What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson

Do you have a Chevy Spark enthusiast about to graduate? Why not help your recent graduate express their unique style with genuine Chevy Spark accessories. Here are some chic gift ideas to that you graduate will enjoy.

Chic Center Console Set

The interior trim kit is a great way to add more color to your grads Spark. It comes with custom colors that match the seat inserts, interior trim and exterior color. This is a great feature to add if your grad is looking for a personalized look.

Roof Rack Carrier

Life after graduation can be hectic. Moving out of a campus dorm to that new apartment requires extra storage space. The Spark might be a compact car, but the Roof Rack Carrier will provide your grad with extra space to carry all their special valuables.

Custom Graphics

Help your recent grad make their Spark outshine the rest with genuine exterior graphics by 3MTM Original Wraps. These custom designed graphics are crafted to give your Spark a chic sports car look. This is a great way to enhance the appearance of your grad’s Spark at a low cost.

All Weather Floor Mats

Chevy’s premium all-weather floor mats mare made with heavy duty materials designed to protect floors from spills and stains. They are not only easy to clean but also protect the interior from foul odors that develop from wet spills. Your grad can drive worry free knowing that whatever the weather brings it’s not going to mess up the Spark.

These are great gift ideas to help your soon to be graduate express their inner style. Visit our online store to check out more accessories and our latest specials.

Dimmitt Chevrolet, is dedicated to helping you find the perfect accessories, parts and service for your Chevy. Come visit us at 25485 US Highway 19 North, Clearwater FL 33763. For more information, give us a call at (727) 216-2811.

New Year’s Resolutions for Chevrolet Owners

You may have compiled a long list of goals and changes you want to make moving into 2014. Perhaps you are striving for better management of your finances. In terms of your household budget, there is a good chance your car is at the top of the list when it comes to spending. Whether you drive a new or used car, one of the best resolutions you can make to improve your finances is to take care of that investment.  Build cost reducing habits that will last, by making 2014 the year you resolve to keep your car well maintained.

Check your battery connections and cables. When it comes to safe driving, brakes are the most important part of your car. Dysfunctional brakes can lead to accidents, and this will set you up for some costly repairs. Be sure to inspect your battery and cables for signs of wear and tear.

Get an oil change. Keeping up with regular oil change services is important for new and used cars alike. Oil keeps parts in your engine lubricated and running smoothly. Running your car on oil from last season will wear out your engine, and worn out parts can lead to engine failure.

Get your tires properly inflated. Changes in weather affect the level of your tire pressure. Refer to your owner’s manual to get the recommended air pressure level for your car. To ensure fuel-efficiency for your vehicle, check your tire pressure regularly and be sure to get a tire rotation with every other oil change.

Check your coolant regularly. Having the right mix of coolant is important. A 50/50 mix of water to coolant is recommended. This will keep your engine stabilized when temperatures change. If you are not sure whether your car has the correct coolant mix or not, be sure to visit your local Chevrolet dealership in Tampa to get a coolant flush.

Check and replace your wiper blades. Having bad windshield wipers will impair your vision and put you and other drivers at risk of crashing. If your blades are worn out, call the Dimmitt Chevrolet parts department for advice.

Servicing you new or used car on a regular basis will save you from spending a great deal of money on damage repairs. Check your car maintenance to-dos off your list early in the year to free up your time for sorting out other priorities on your List.

Visit Dimmitt Chevrolet to schedule an appointment. Dimmitt Chevrolet is a premier new Chevy and used car dealership in Tampa, serving Clearwater, Sarasota, St. Petersburg and the surrounding areas. At Dimmitt Chevrolet dealership, you'll find a vast selection of new cars and used cars for sale. If you're looking for professional auto repair, new tires, or other Chevy service, Dimmitt Chevrolet has you covered. Whether you drive a Chevy Cruze, Chevy Silverado, Chevy Equinox, or other type of vehicle, our auto mechanic team services all makes and models. Come visit our Chevy dealership near Tampa (25485 U.S. 19, Clearwater, FL 33763), of give us a call at 727-791-1818 for more information.

5 Things to Be Thankful for on Christmas

Christmas is almost here! But while we get caught in the middle of excitements and happy gatherings, let us take a moment to reflect and be thankful of all the good things. Sometimes we get blinded by the meaning of Christmas that we simply focus on gifts, what to give and what to receive. We tend to concentrate on material things and we fail to see those that are more meaningful. As I am writing this letter, I think about those who are homeless, lost, hurting sick or orphaned and how they will find the meaning to Christmas, given that most of them have no family or home to celebrate in. No matter what your circumstance is, here are 5 things that you can be thankful for this Christmas.

1. Good Health

Good health is something that we rarely appreciate, but the moment we get sick, we so crave for it that we are willing to exchange our richness for it. If you enjoy good health this Christmas, thank God for it. However, if you are suffering from a sickness, thank God for the hope of healing.

2. Families and Friends

Unless our families and friends are safe and in good health, we´re not completely happy, therefore be thankful this Christmas that they´re safe and sound. They are our treasures. If any of your family and friends are suffering this Christmas, pray for them and encourage them to trust God to keep them safe.

3. Your Job

You work for a wonderful family at Dimmitt Chevrolet. You work for a family who cares about you, your family and the community. You work for a dealership that does everything they do with honesty and integrity, which, unfortunately, doesn’t happen in many other dealerships. A good job is a gift, so perform at your finest and give thanks for it.

4. Your Freedom 

The freedom to live, to do things that you want, and the freedom to practice your religion is one of those best gifts. Think of those who are oppressed, or those who spend their Christmas behind bars, they wish they have your freedom. Be thankful for it.

5. Your Possessions

I have more than I need and I´m thankful for it. All of our material things are a gift from God and the fruit of our hard work and they are something worth thanking for. I have learned that looking on the underprivileged instead of those above me makes me appreciate more what I have.

So, during this Christmas take the time to reflect on those things in your life you have been so blessed with. Your faith, your families, your good health and the privilege it is working for such an outstanding company that believes in its people, doing everything with integrity and having faithful gratitude for the success we have. I wish all of you and your families a very Merry Christmas and a safe, prosperous and Happy New Year!

Help Chevrolet in the fight to end breast cancer

Chevrolet is teaming up with the American Cancer Society to fight for a world without breast cancer, and you can help! 

Learn about all the ways Chevrolet is joining in the fight:

1. Chevrolet is donating $10 to the American Cancer Society for every vehicle test drive at Dimmitt Chevrolet, up to a maximum contribution of $130,000!
   
2. Dimmitt Chevrolet is also being given the option to donate our service rebate and Chevrolet will match donations up to $150,000.
   
3. Finally, keep an eye out for the pink Camaro, which will once again be the pace car for the NASCAR race in Atlanta on September 2nd. Two hundred dollars from each caution lap the Camaro makes will support ACS!

To learn more about Chevrolet's efforts, visit Making Strides Against Breast Cancer.

Join us for the 5th Annual Thanks Troops Golf Classic!

Please join us on Friday, Sept. 6th at 9:30 a.m. for the Fifth Annual Thanks Troops Golf Classic. Dimmitt Chevrolet is proud to sponsor this great event to benefit our nation's wounded veterans.

When: Friday, September 6, 2013, Patriot Day, 9:30 AM Shotgun
Where: Crescent Oaks Golf Club, Tarpon Springs
Format: Four-Person Scramble, PAR is your friend
Entry Fee: $175 per player includes golf and cart fees, breakfast served by McDonald’s, three lunches on the golf course (one by Chili’s, one by LRE ground services and one by Frankie Van Da Boe), four liquor companies serving shots and vodka, and sit down banquet.