What To Expect Before Trading In Your Vehicle

BAY CITY, Mich.- If you are, or have ever been, in the market to sell your car in an effort to purchase a new vehicle, you had to make the decision whether to sell it on your own or trade it in. You may have read our feature on What To Expect WhenSelling Your Vehicle Yourself, and now we’re going to take you through What To Expect Before Trading In Your Vehicle, honestly. This is not your typically How-To explanation. We’re going to tell you exactly what you can expect when you’re thinking about trading in your vehicle.

First off, it doesn’t matter if you’re selling your vehicle yourself or trading it in, it’s important to be upfront about the condition of the vehicle. If you decide to trade in your used vehicle, the dealer will usually check the history of the car so there is no use in hiding information about its condition.

Now, the first thing on your mind is probably your vehicle’s trade in value. While you have an advantage here by being able to shop around for the best trade in offer, you must also keep some other things in mind. Yes, some dealers will just tell you what you want to hear in regards to price, but that may not be how much you will actually get and that it most likely not the type of dealership you want to work with. So, prepare yourself by first researching what your vehicle may be worth on a site such as KBB.com.

Next, What You Can Expect Before Trading In Your Vehicle if you choose to work with a reputable, honest dealership, is that you will begin to build a relationship with one of the sales people or the sales manager, whether it be over the phone, online, or in store. You should feel comfortable working with your dealer, and while you may have no experience in the automobile industry, it’s important to keep in mind that your sales person is actually at a disadvantage too. Why is this? An honest, knowledgeable salesperson knows that they must first gain your trust in order to proceed. They want to understand your ultimate goal in order to help you trade in or buy a vehicle that is truly beneficial to you. By understanding your needs, they can help you better. Not to mention, trading in a vehicle that is worth something to you, or purchasing a new vehicle, are both huge investments. It’s worth the time to build the relationship and feel 100% confortable with your dealer and salesperson.

Once that relationship is built, you can expect that the trade in value of your vehicle will be based on the actual cash value of the trade, not on the value of the vehicle you are interested in purchasing. While you can negotiate the trade in value, you will mostly only be able to adjust the price by the $100’s, not $1,000’s. You can also expect this offer to be less than if you were to sell your vehicle yourself. But this is okay because the dealership is now doing all of the work instead of you: advertising, insuring, and taking the liability of the vehicle, while covering the costs of doing business.

Whether you’re interested in selling your vehicle yourself or trading it in, there is a lot to consider before making a final decision. Take the time to decide which is best for you, and don’t be afraid to get the opinion of your reputable Bay City Area Chevrolet Dealer. We would be more than happy to help you figure out which option is best for your needs and wants. If you have any questions on What To Expect When Trading In Your Vehicle, feel free to stop by! Graff Bay City is located at 3636 Wilder Road, Bay City, MI 48706. For more information on Graff Bay City, or for any questions call us at (989) 684-4411 or visit our websites: www.GraffBayCity.com.

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Lisa Rechsteiner
General Manager
Graff Chevrolet, Inc.
Any questions or comments please do not hesitate to contact me at lrechsteiner@graffsales.com.

Get 4G LTE In Your 2015 Chevy Pickup Truck

BAY CITY, Mich.- Chevrolet will soon be keeping your more connected than ever with the automaker's latest technology advancement. General Motors announced this week the exciting news that you will soon be able to get 2015 Chevy Pickup Tucks With 4G LTE! Yes, you will be able to get 4G LTE internet connection in your Chevrolet Truck, if you choose the available built-in wireless data network!

2015 Chevy Pickups Equipped With 4G LTE, will have the data connection built into the truck's electrical system along with an external antenna to ensure a good connection. The vehicle's 4G LTE connection, will allow the GPS navigation system to update traffic in real-time and allow owners to turn their truck into a Wi-Fi hotspot. Since 4G LTE is 10 times faster than 3G, Passengers will be able to surf the web and download video at 20-30 megabits per second.

The 2015 Chevy Pickups Equipped with 4G LTE, have initially partnered with AT&T, but GM expects to announce more information about carrier and supplier options in the next few months. Pricing for the data service has not yet been revealed, but Chevy may integrated with OnStar making it an added tier to the OnStar service.

We'll let you know as soon as the 2015 Chevy Pickups hit our lot, but if you need a new vehicle with great features right now, check out our 2013 Chevy Silverado HD Brochure or our New Chevrolet Cars in Bay City, MI. Your Mid-Michigan Chevy Dealer is located at 3636 Wilder Road, Bay City, MI 48706. For more information on Graff Bay City, or for any questions call us at (989) 684-4411 or visit our websites: www.GraffBayCity.com.

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Tips To Save Fuel In Winter

BAY CITY, Mich.- When gas prices continue to climb we start to think of how we can improve our fuel efficiency to save some extra cash at the pump. Well, did you know that in addition to your usual fuel saving practices, there are a few Tips To Save Fuel In Winter specifically? Keep combining all of your shorter trips and turn off your vehicle if you expect to be idling for more than 10 seconds, but add these winter fuel saving tips into the mix too and you'll be filling up less often!

The first way to save fuel in the winter is to get rid of the extra weight in your trunk or truck bed. While the extra weight can help with traction, it drastically reduces your fuel economy! And while you're getting rid of the extra weight, make sure to clear off all of the snow and ice since that adds weight too.

Second, be aware of even the lightest dusting of snow. Snow creates resistance for your vehicle and even the lightest dusting can lower your fuel economy. Ideally, you should try to wait until the roads have been cleared, but if you have to go out drive in the tracks that have been created by another vehicle for the least resistance.

And if you can, park your car in the garage during the winter months. Your vehicle will stay warmer while it's not being used and won't burn as much energy while warming up. If you can't park in a garage, you don't need to warm your car up for 10 minutes either. It only takes 30 seconds to warm the engine sufficiently, and anything after that is wasteful.

Make your next tank of gas last a little longer with these Tips To Save Fuel In Winter. If your tires have been slipping and sliding this season, keep our Tire Discounts in mind! Your Bay City Area Chevrolet Dealer is located at 3636 Wilder Road, Bay City, MI 48706. For more information on Graff Bay City, or for any questions call us at (989) 684-4411 or visit our websites: www.GraffBayCity.com.

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NASCAR Gen-6 Race Cars Began With Chevrolet

BAY CITY, Mich.- This past weekend, Chevy revealed the all-new, performance-focused 2014 Chevrolet SS production car that mirrors the car racing in the Sprint Cup Series. You're probably aware that some other automakers have also recently produced NASCAR stock cars that are similar to their showroom models. But, did you know that the movement to produce NASCAR Gen-6 Race Cars began with Chevrolet?

A little more than three years ago, Mark Reuss took over as president of General Motors North America and took action to make Chevrolet more relevant in NASCAR. Chevy actually almost pulled out of NASCAR, but instead pushed for relevance. And NASCAR President Mike Helton even said that the movement to produce NASCAR Gen-6 Race Cars began with Chevrolet. Had Chevrolet not taken the risk to design their latest Chevy SS, they likely would have pulled out of the sport.

The 2014 Chevrolet SS, revealed in Daytona, was designed as a premium model. So although it may not be a vehicle for everyone, it makes the connection between the race track and showroom. It's like what happened when the Monte Carlo saw success on the race track, so did Chevy. Chevrolet is making a comeback, so stop by your Bay City Area Chevrolet Dealer to check out the Top Selling Chevy Impala and our New Chevrolet Cars in Bay City, MI. We can help you find your dream Chevy at a price you're comfortable with! Graff Bay City is located at 3636 Wilder Road, Bay City, MI 48706. For more information on Graff Bay City, or for any questions call us at (989) 684-4411 or visit our websites: www.GraffBayCity.com.

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Chevy MyLink "Valet Mode" & Safe Storage

BAY CITY, Mich.- Chevrolet has integrated iPhone's Siri into select vehicle's infotainment systems and now they are making the 2014 Chevy Impala even more like your smartphone with Chevy MyLink "Valet Mode" & Safe Storage advancements! The 2014 Impala's center display with be home to the next generation Chevy MyLink system equipped with a PIN-activated display and retractable faceplate to keep your personal information and material goods safe!

Have you ever felt a little bit nervous handing your keys over to the valet or someone that you weren't so familiar with? Well worry no more in the 2014 Chevrolet Impala! The new Chevy MyLink "Valet Mode" will prevent those people from seeing your personal items or information thanks to the PIN-activated retractable faceplate that covers a secure storage bin, large enough to hold items like your wallet, iPod, or smartphone. The Chevy MyLink touchscreen is also PIN-locked to keep personal information like contact information or addresses safe as well.

For new Chevy Impala owners, the new MyLink feature can be found through the system's Settings and will work like a hotel safe; enter a four-digit code, and then confirm the code by entering it again. Also in the Settings, owners can select their preferred "skin" or graphic appearance from: Contemporary, Edge, Main Street, or Velocity, depending on your personality.

Chevy MyLink "Valet Mode" & Safe Storage will be available on the 2014 Chevrolet Impala, but many current Chevy models also offer Chevy's MyLink technology, so come check them out at your Bay City Area Chevrolet Dealer. Keep in mind that we also offer Chevy Impala Rebates and Chevy Impala Employee Pricing to help you save! Graff Bay City is located at 3636 Wilder Road, Bay City, MI 48706. For more information on Graff Bay City, or for any questions call us at (989) 684-4411 or visit our websites: www.GraffBayCity.com.

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2014 Chevrolet SS Debut Review

BAY CITY, Mich.- This weekend at the Daytona International Speedway, the all new 2014 Chevrolet SS performance sedan made its public debut, coinciding with the racing debut of the Chevy SS NASCAR model. (By the way, the Chevy SS NASCAR won the season-opening Sprint Unlimited race Saturday night!)

After the NASCAR Chevy SS brought home a win, we wondered how similar the two models actually are. Our 2014 Chevrolet SS Debut Review revealed that the showroom model and race car are more similar than you may have initially thought! Reviewing the 2014 Chevrolet SS, you'll enjoy the LS3 6.2-liter V8 engine that produces an estimated 415 horsepower and 415 lb.-ft. of torque. The rear wheel drive sedan can speed from 0-60 in less than 5 seconds! Performance-wise the new Chevy SS features a sports-tuned suspension, Brembo brakes, sticky Bridgestone tires, and about a 50/50 weight distribution.

Inside, you'll notice both performance and convenience features like a grippy, flat-bottomed steering wheel, Chevy MyLink infotainment system, multiple safety features, leather trim, and suede and carbon fiber-like surfaces. Plus, the helpful automatic parking function that only requires the driver to control the brakes.

However, pricing details for the 2014 Chevrolet SS will not be released until closer to the sales launch later this year. Until then, check out the Top Selling Chevy Impala and our New Chevrolet Cars in Bay City, MI. We can help you find your dream Chevy at a price you're comfortable with! Graff Bay City is located at 3636 Wilder Road, Bay City, MI 48706. For more information on Graff Bay City, or for any questions call us at (989) 684-4411 or visit our websites: www.GraffBayCity.com.

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What to Expect When Selling Your Vehicle Yourself

BAY CITY, Mich.- Have you recently decided to sell your vehicle yourself? Or have you been thinking about whether selling your vehicle yourself is the best option for you? Do you know everything that is involved with selling your vehicle on your own? It is important to consider every aspect involved with selling your vehicle on your own, so find out right now What To Expect When Selling Your Vehicle Yourself.

You first thought is probably that you can make more money if you sell your vehicle yourself rather than trade it in. While it is true that you could possibly make up to $1,500-$3,000 more when selling your vehicle yourself, you must also consider the costs of doing it on your own, rather than through a dealership. First, you will probably list your vehicle on Craig’s List, Ebay, Cars.com, Autotrader.com, or even in the newspaper. When someone interested in your vehicle contacts you, the first thing you will want to do is make sure that they have full coverage insurance since they will most likely want to take the vehicle on a test drive. This is important not only because of the possibility of a collision, but because of liability as well. Since you still technically still own the vehicle at this point, any liability will fall back on you. However, depending on your state laws, some situations may still fall back on your insurance, so make sure you are aware of your local laws before heading out for a test drive.

The second important aspect of selling your vehicle on your own is to make sure that you are extremely clear that you are selling the vehicle “AS IS” and you assume no responsibility once the title has been transferred to the new owner. In the situation of selling your vehicle, you do not want to encounter any miscommunication and you don’t want to be responsible for the vehicle after the title has been transferred, so always be upfront about the condition of the vehicle and let the interested buyer know that you are selling the vehicle “AS IS” without any warranty. If your vehicle has been in an accident, it is important to disclose this information and let the interested buyer know where the vehicle was repaired. Never try to hide this information. Should you have a factory warranty or an extended service contract on the vehicle, make sure the prospective buyer understands that this is supplied by the manufacturer or the extended service contract company. To be completely safe, the seller and the buyer should actually sign a contract that states they both understand the vehicle is being sold “AS IS”.

The last thing to expect when selling your vehicle yourself is what happens when you actually sell the vehicle. If you own your vehicle without any liens or have the ability to pay it off before you sell the vehicle, it definitely makes it easier to transfer the title to the owner. Things get more complicated when you still owe money on the vehicle since you will have to pay it off before they can buy it or you will have to work out an agreement that they will pay you for the vehicle, and you will then get them a clear title within 5 working days. When taking funds from a private party make sure you only accept cash, cashiers check, or money order, and then go directly to the bank with the buyer to cash the funds. You never want to accept a personal check unless you retain ownership of your vehicle until the personal check clears your bank. Then once payment is complete both the seller and the buyer will go to your local DMV/Secretary of State to transfer the title. This is where it is important to have a title without a lien. A DMV/Secretary of State won't transfer a title with a lien unless you have permission from the lending institution.

Now that you’re a little more familiar with What To Expect When Selling Your Vehicle Yourself, it’s time to evaluate all of the aspects that go into it and decide if it is the best decision for you. If you enjoy meeting new people and have no issues negotiating or working with the public, then it may make sense for you to sell your vehicle yourself. Especially if you have a vehicle that will sell for less than $8,000, since it is much easier for someone to have small amount of money saved up for a vehicle. If the buyer needs to secure a loan, smaller amounts are also easier to be approved for. When you get closer to the $10,000 price point, it is tougher for the buyer to secure a loan for the vehicle.

At Graff Bay City, we want to help you make the best decision for you. If you need help weighing the pros and cons of what to expect when selling your vehicle yourself, then stop by, we’d be more than happy to help! We’re located at 3636 Wilder Road, Bay City, MI 48706. For more information on Hank Graff Chevrolet, or for any questions call us at (989) 684-4411 or visit our website at www.GraffBayCity.com.

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Lisa Rechsteiner

General Manager

Graff Chevrolet, Inc.

Any questions or comments please do not hesitate to contact me at lrechsteiner@graffsales.com.

Next Generation 2015 Chevy Cruze

Spy shot of the next-gen Chevy Cruze from Autoblog.

BAY CITY, Mich.- The Detroit Auto Show may be over, but we've got news on a new Chevrolet vehicle. The Next Generation 2015 Chevy Cruze has been spotted in Northern Europe while undergoing some cold weather testing! Although General Motors has tried to disguise the vehicle as resemble the Chevy Sonic, this is indeed the next-gen Chevrolet Cruze. The compact sedan just hit the market in 2011, but we can see many design changes to the Chevy Cruze that will land in Fall 2014, making it a 2015 model.

Design-wise, rear-seat passengers will enjoy more space in the 2015 Chevy Cruze with a length increase in the rear section. As well as additional storage in the trunk. Taking a closer look, you'll also notice a new taillight configuration and more rounded front end with lower fenders. When you reach for the door handle, you will notice that those have moved up a little bit too. Overall the Next Generation 2015 Chevy Cruze will also switch to the new global D2XX platform which will eventually underpin everything from the next-gen Chevy Volt to the Equinox.

With all of the camo, it is hard to distinguish many other changes on the Next Generation 2015 Chevrolet Cruze. But to learn more about the current model, stop by your Bay City Area Chevrolet Dealer and check out our 2013 Chevy Cruze Brochure. Remember that we can help you save with our Chevy Cruze Rebates! Graff Bay City is located at 3636 Wilder Road, Bay City, MI 48706. For more information on Graff Bay City, or for any questions call us at (989) 684-4411 or visit our websites: www.GraffBayCity.com.

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Get Siri In Your Chevy

BAY CITY, Mich.- Hey iPhone users, you're going to like the sound of this! If you love using Siri on your iPhone, soon you will be able to Get Siri In Your Chevy! Chevrolet has just announced that the Chevrolet MyLink in the new 2013 Chevy Sonic and 2013 Chevy Spark will be available with Siri. This means you can use your iPhone like you would any other time, directing Siri through the standard infotainment system without taking your eyes off the road or your hands off the wheel.

Chevy's MyLink system already provides you with an incredible driving experience, and the integration of Siri will only compliment that. Owners of the 2013 Chevrolet Spark and Sonic will be able to make voice activated calls, play songs from their iTunes library, access calendars, as well as being able to listen, compose, and send text messages, all through Siri on the Chevrolet MyLink Technology. Already a 2013 Chevy Sonic or Spark owner? No worries, you can upgrade your existing MyLink technology for Siri compatibility beginning in March!

If you need help navigating your Chevrolet MyLink technology, just stop by Graff Bay City, we'd be happy to help! We're located at 3636 Wilder Road, Bay City, MI 48706. For more information on Graff Bay City, or for any questions call us at (989) 684-4411 or visit our websites: www.GraffBayCity.com.

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Bay City Chevrolet Dealership

BAY CITY, Mich.- Founded by Otto P. Graff in 1914, Graff Bay City's strong automotive history  makes us your reliable destination for Bay City Area Chevrolet Cars For Sale! It is our mission to provide you with a superior solution to all of your auto needs. If you're in the market for a new car, we know you'll find it in our inventory of New Chevrolet Cars in Bay City, MI or our Used Chevrolet Cars For Sale.

Here at Graff Bay City we're proud of our strong community involvement, and to us that is what sets us apart. We live here, work here, and play here. Mid-Michigan is our home, and we want to help our neighbors and friends solve their automotive needs. We will help you find the vehicle of your dreams at a price that fits your budget, and you can count on our service team to keep you safe out on the road. We know that you work hard for your paycheck too, so we always have great offers available to help you save even more!

Stop in and say Hi, we're just down the street! Graff Bay City is located at 3636 Wilder Road, Bay City, MI 48706. For more information on Graff Bay City, or for any questions call us at (989) 684-4411 or visit our websites: www.GraffBayCity.com.

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2014 Corvette Stingray Convertible Debut at Geneva

Rendering of the 2014 Corvette Stingray Convertible

BAY CITY, Mich.- The excitement from the official debut of the redesigned Chevrolet Corvette Stingray has settled a little bit, but a new wave of excitement is about to roll in! The 7th generation Corvette reveal isn't over yet. Chevy has officially announced that the 2014 Corvette Stingray Convertible will Debut at the Geneva Motor Show coming up next month! The droptop Stingray will make its first appearance on March 5th at the Swiss auto show.

Why isn't GM hosting the debut in the United States? Well, the Corvette is an icon and is loved all over the world, even in countries where it is not offered. Plus, this is General Motors' first push to strengthen the Chevy Brand across Europe. And even though neither Chevy nor Corvette have a major sales presence in Switzerland, Chevrolet's European headquarters is located in Zurich, just a few hours northeast of where the 2014 Corvette Stingray Convertible Debut in Geneva will take place.

The 2014 Corvette Stingray Convertible will follow in the tire tracks of the original Stingray Coupe, and will also be auctioned off for charity at the Barrett-Jackson Palm Beach Auction. The proceeds from the C7 Convertible auction will go to the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, located in Michigan!

Stay tuned for details on the reveal of the Corvette Stingray Convertible! But, to learn more about the previous generation Corvette, enjoy our 2013 Chevy Corvette Brochure or check out our Chevrolet Corvette Inventory.

Hank Graff Chevy is located at 3636 Wilder Road, Bay City, MI 48706. For more information on Graff Bay City, or for any questions call us at (989) 684-4411 or visit our websites: www.GraffBayCity.com.

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Chevy Truck Month in Mid-Michigan

BAY CITY, Mich.-  It's Chevy Truck Month in Mid-Michigan! Which means there's no better time than now to go home in a Top Selling Chevy Silverado! But during Chevy Truck Month, you can also take advantage of amazing deals on the Tahoe, Suburban, or Traverse!

Need a truck that gets the job done when you're at work or at play? Take a look at the 2013 Chevy Silverado 1500 Brochure or the 2013 Chevy Silverado HD Brochure to find out which Chevy Truck fits your needs best. During Mid-Michigan Chevy Truck Month, you can save up to $7,250 on a new Chevrolet Silverado. Not to mention, the 2013 Silverado 1500 just won Kelley Blue Book's 5-Year Cost to Own Award in the full size pickup truck segment! 2013 Chevy Silverado Inventory.

If you need a truck that will fit the whole family, check out the 2013 Chevy Suburban Brochure! With the new Chevrolet Suburban, your whole family will be comfortable out on the road, and your payments will be comfortable too. During Chevy Truck Month, Suburban buyers enjoy 3.9% APR for 60 months (for qualified buyers) or $1,500 Customer Cash! 2013 Chevy Suburban Inventory.

The Chevy Tahoe also has available 3.9% APR for 60 months (for qualified buyers) or $1,500 Customer Cash during Chevy Truck Month. Our 2013 Chevy Tahoe Brochure details all of the luxurious features your family will enjoy in a new Tahoe! 2013 Chevrolet Tahoe Inventory.

Last but not least, you can also enjoy major savings on the Chevy Traverse during Chevrolet Truck Month in Mid-Michigan! Another great family vehicle, check out the 2013 Chevy Traverse Brochure. Don't miss the opportunity to drive off in a new Traverse for just $259 per month (24 months, with $2,919 due at signing), or take advantage of $500 Customer Cash! 2013 Chevrolet Traverse Inventory.

If you're overwhelmed by all of the savings available during Mid-Michigan Chevy Truck Month, come on in to your Mid-Michigan Chevy Dealer and we'd be happy to help you find the best vehicle for you at the right price! Graff Bay City is located at 3636 Wilder Road, Bay City, MI 48706. For more information on Graff Bay City, or for any questions call us at (989) 684-4411 or visit our websites: www.GraffBayCity.com.

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DIY Valentine's Day Decor Ideas

BAY CITY, Mich.- Do you feel the love? If not, maybe it's time to add some Valentine's Day flair around the house. Even if you're a firm believer that it's just a "Hallmark Holiday" you can't help but feel warm and fuzzy when you're surrounded by pink and red hearts! So try our DIY Valentine's Day Decor Ideas to get in the spirit and spread the love this February!

Decorating for Valentine's Day doesn't get any easier than this! Grab a frame that you have lying around the house and then scroll Google or Pinterest for Valentine's Day Printables. Find one you like and then just press print! Put it in your frame and voila, you have a Valentine's Day decoration that didn't cost you a thing!

If you're feeling more festive, you can make your own ever-lasting Valentine's Day bouquet. All you'll need is some crepe paper in colors like red, pink, and white, and some floral wire or pipe cleaners! Basically, you just cut petal shapes along a strip of crepe paper and then roll it around the pipe cleaner. But check out the Full Tutorial for more detailed instructions!

Lastly, chances are you'll probably have flowers around the house this Valentine's Day, so spice up your vase with this trick. Place a slightly smaller vase inside of a larger vase and the fill the empty space between the two with a festive filler like candy conversation hearts or pink/red candies or marbles!

With these easy DIY Valentine's Day Decor Ideas, there's no excuse for not spreading a little love this February! And while you're at it, give your vehicle a little extra attention too! You can save on your vehicle's maintenance with our Tire Discounts, Brake Service Coupons and Oil Change Coupons! Hank Graff Chevy is located at 3636 Wilder Road, Bay City, MI 48706. For more information on Graff Bay City, or for any questions call us at (989) 684-4411 or visit our websites: www.GraffBayCity.com.

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