Ross Downing Chevrolet is a cornerstone of the automotive landscape in Hammond, Louisiana, serving as a primary hub for drivers from Baton Rouge to New Orleans for over five decades. Located at 600 S. Morrison Blvd, Hammond, LA 70403, this dealership has transitioned from a local family business established in 1973 into a regional powerhouse known for its massive inventory and a specialized focus on high-performance vehicles like the Chevrolet Corvette.

Finding a reliable dealership often requires looking past the flashy advertisements and examining the history, service quality, and community reputation. For residents of Tangipahoa Parish and the surrounding areas, this facility represents more than just a place to buy a car; it is a full-service automotive resource backed by 52 years of operational expertise and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau.

Comprehensive Services and Contact Information

Navigating the various departments at a large-scale dealership can be complex. To streamline the experience, the facility maintains dedicated lines and specific operating hours for sales, service, and parts.

Sales Department Details

The sales team focuses on matching drivers with vehicles that suit the specific demands of Louisiana’s terrain and climate.

  • Phone: (985) 520-4147
  • Operating Hours: Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 7:30 PM, and Saturdays from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM. The sales department remains closed on Sundays to allow staff rest, a traditional practice in the regional automotive industry.

Service and Parts Department Details

Maintenance is handled by GM-certified technicians who specialize in the longevity of the Chevrolet lineup.

  • Service Phone: (985) 520-4309
  • Parts Phone: (985) 520-0865
  • Operating Hours: Monday through Friday from 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM (Service) and 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM (Parts). Both departments are closed on weekends, emphasizing the importance of weekday scheduling for major repairs.

The Evolution of a Legacy Since 1973

The story of this dealership began on September 8, 1971, with formal incorporation following in April 1973. For over half a century, the Downing family has maintained a consistent presence in Hammond. Unlike corporate-owned mega-dealers that often see high turnover in management, the stability at the top here has allowed for the cultivation of multi-generational customer relationships. It is common to find families in Hammond where the grandparents, parents, and now children have all purchased their first vehicles from the same Morrison Boulevard location.

This longevity provides a unique advantage in the pre-owned market. Because the dealership has been active for so long, they often have a clear history of the vehicles they take in as trades, having serviced them for years prior to the exchange. This transparency is the foundation of their "straight-forward pricing" philosophy.

Exploring the New Chevrolet Inventory in Hammond

The primary draw for visitors is the extensive selection of new Chevrolet models. In the current market, availability is everything, and the scale of this dealership ensures a steady flow of the most sought-after trucks and SUVs.

The Dominance of the Chevrolet Silverado

In South Louisiana, a truck is often a necessity rather than a luxury. Whether it is for hauling boats to the Gulf, managing agricultural land, or navigating the occasional flooding on rural roads, the Silverado remains the top choice.

  • Silverado 1500: Ideal for daily driving with a mix of efficiency and power. The 2.7L TurboMax engine has become a popular talking point in the showroom for its surprising torque.
  • Silverado 2500 HD and 3500 HD: These heavy-duty models are the workhorses of the Hammond region. With the ability to tow massive loads using the Duramax Turbo-Diesel, these trucks are frequently customized here with specific accessories for local contractors.
  • Silverado EV: As the market shifts toward electrification, the introduction of the Silverado EV represents a new chapter. The dealership’s staff has undergone specific training to help traditional truck owners understand the benefits of instant torque and the 400-mile range options.

Family Focused SUVs and Crossovers

For families commuting between Hammond and Covington or New Orleans, the SUV lineup offers a balance of safety and space.

  • Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban: These are the icons of the full-size SUV segment. The Suburban, with its extended wheelbase, is a frequent sight in local school carpool lines, valued for its three rows of seating and massive cargo capacity.
  • Equinox and Traverse: These mid-size options cater to those who need versatility without the footprint of a full-size truck-based SUV. The Traverse, in particular, has gained traction for its updated tech interface and safety features like Lane Keep Assist.
  • Trax and Trailblazer: Positioned as entry-level crossovers, these models have become favorites for students at Southeastern Louisiana University due to their fuel economy and modern styling.

A National Destination for Corvette Enthusiasts

One of the most remarkable aspects of Ross Downing Chevrolet is its status as a top-10 national Corvette dealer. It has been recognized as Louisiana’s number one Corvette dealer since 1992. This is not merely a local accolade; it has national implications for enthusiasts looking for specific allocations.

Why Corvette Buyers Travel from Across the Country

Purchasing a high-performance vehicle like the Corvette C8 requires more than just a signature. It requires a dealership with a high "allocation," which is the manufacturer’s permission to order a specific number of vehicles.

  • Experience with Specialty Orders: The team understands the nuances of Z06 and E-Ray configurations. They are accustomed to "museum delivery" requests and performance-focused maintenance that standard dealerships might rarely handle.
  • Specialized Technicians: Corvette engineering is distinct from the rest of the Chevy lineup. The service department employs master techs who are specifically trained to handle the mid-engine architecture of the latest generations.
  • Corvette Culture: The dealership doesn’t just sell the cars; they host shows and club events, fostering a community of "Vette" owners that spans the entire Gulf Coast.

The Strategy of Straight Forward Pricing

In an era where "hidden fees" and "market adjustments" have frustrated many car buyers, the Hammond team emphasizes a transparent approach. Straight-forward pricing is designed to remove the adversarial nature of car negotiations.

Financing for Diverse Credit Backgrounds

The finance department works with a wide network of lenders, ranging from local credit unions in Tangipahoa Parish to national banks. This variety is crucial because it allows the dealership to find competitive rates for both high-credit buyers looking for 0% APR incentives and those who are working to rebuild their credit history.

  • Pre-Approval Tools: Their digital platform allows buyers to get a clear picture of their buying power before stepping onto the lot.
  • Trade-In Accuracy: Using real-time market data, the dealership provides valuations for trade-ins that reflect the high demand for used vehicles in the Baton Rouge-New Orleans corridor.

Quality Service and Genuine GM Parts

The relationship with the customer usually truly begins after the sale is finalized. The service center at the Hammond location is built to handle everything from routine maintenance to complex collision repair.

Certified Service Expertise

What defines "Certified Service"? It means the technicians are trained by General Motors specifically on the technology inside Chevy vehicles. This includes:

  • Diagnostic Precision: Using GM-specific software to identify electrical or mechanical issues that generic scanners might miss.
  • Safety Recalls: As a franchised dealer, they are the primary point for handling manufacturer recalls, ensuring that every vehicle on the road meets updated safety standards.
  • Tire Finder Tool: Given the heat and humidity of Louisiana, tire wear is a significant concern. The dealership offers a specialized tool to match the right rubber compounds to the specific weight and performance of Chevy trucks and cars.

The Role of Genuine OEM Parts

While aftermarket parts are available at many local shops, the parts department here stocks Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) components. For a Silverado owner, using an OEM oil filter or brake pads ensures that the vehicle remains within its warranty parameters and performs exactly as the engineers intended.

What is the buying experience like at Ross Downing Chevrolet?

When you walk into the showroom on South Morrison Boulevard, there is a distinct sense of Southern hospitality mixed with high-volume efficiency. The facility is large enough to feel impressive, yet the staff maintains a level of local familiarity.

The Initial Consultation

The process typically starts with a needs assessment. Sales consultants are encouraged to ask about a buyer's daily commute and towing needs rather than just pointing at the most expensive model on the floor. For example, if a customer mentions they frequently drive into New Orleans, the consultant might suggest a model with advanced parking sensors or a smaller footprint for tight city streets.

The Test Drive Environment

The area around Hammond provides a good mix of road types for a test drive. From the straightaways of the highway to the more textured local roads, buyers can get a realistic feel for a vehicle's suspension and cabin noise levels. Testing a Silverado’s trailering mirrors or a Tahoe’s Super Cruise feature is much more effective in this environment than in a congested metropolitan center.

Supporting the Hammond and Amite City Communities

A dealership that has survived for 50 years does so by being an active participant in the community. The Ross Downing Auto Group is a major employer in the region, providing jobs for approximately 80 people. Beyond employment, the group is known for sponsoring local events, sports teams, and educational initiatives.

This community connection creates a feedback loop of accountability. Because the employees live in the same neighborhoods as their customers, there is a social incentive to provide high-quality service and honest deals.

How to Find Ross Downing Chevrolet from Nearby Cities

The dealership’s location in Hammond makes it a convenient midpoint for several major Louisiana cities.

Directions from Baton Rouge

Drivers from the capital city can take I-12 East for approximately 40 miles. Taking Exit 40 for US-51 toward Hammond/Ponchatoula leads directly to South Morrison Boulevard. The drive typically takes about 45 minutes, making it a viable option for those looking for a larger selection than what might be available in the immediate Baton Rouge area.

Directions from New Orleans

From New Orleans, the most direct route is I-10 West to I-55 North toward Hammond. After about 45 miles, take the exit toward Hammond and follow signs for US-51/South Morrison Blvd. The accessibility from the Northshore and the Southshore is a key reason why they are the preferred Corvette dealer for the Greater New Orleans area.

Directions from Covington and Mandeville

Residents of the Northshore can simply head West on I-12. The proximity (less than 30 minutes) means many St. Tammany Parish residents choose this location for their regular maintenance and oil changes.

Understanding the Pre-Owned and Certified Pre-Owned Options

For many buyers, a brand-new vehicle isn't the right financial move. The used inventory in Hammond is diverse, but the "Certified Pre-Owned" (CPO) category is what offers the most value.

What makes a Chevy "Certified"?

To qualify for the CPO program at this dealership, a vehicle must:

  1. Be within the last 6 model years.
  2. Have a maximum of 75,000 miles.
  3. Pass a rigorous 172-point inspection and reconditioning process.
  4. Have a clean title.

CPO vehicles come with two manufacturer-backed limited warranties: a 6-Year/100,000-Mile Powertrain Limited Warranty and a 12-Month/12,000-Mile Bumper-to-Bumper Limited Warranty. For a buyer in Hammond, this offers the peace of mind of a new car at a used car price point.

Conclusion and Summary

Ross Downing Chevrolet has built its reputation on a foundation of longevity, specialized expertise, and a wide-reaching service network. By focusing on the specific needs of South Louisiana drivers—whether that means providing the heavy-duty trucks needed for local industry or securing the rare Corvette allocations for enthusiasts—they have moved beyond the role of a simple car lot.

With an A+ BBB rating and over 50 years in the business, the dealership remains a reliable destination for anyone in the market for a new or used Chevrolet. Their commitment to "straight-forward pricing" and a highly trained service department ensures that the customer journey doesn't end when the papers are signed, but continues through the life of the vehicle.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Where is Ross Downing Chevrolet located?

The dealership is located at 600 S. Morrison Blvd, Hammond, LA 70403. It is easily accessible via I-12 and I-55, serving the entire South Louisiana region.

Is Ross Downing Chevrolet open on Sundays?

No, the sales, service, and parts departments are all closed on Sundays. Sales are open Monday through Saturday, while Service and Parts are open Monday through Friday.

Does Ross Downing Chevrolet specialize in Corvettes?

Yes, they are a top-10 national Corvette dealer and have been the #1 Corvette dealer in Louisiana since 1992. They have extensive experience with Corvette allocations and specialized performance maintenance.

Can I schedule a service appointment online?

Yes, the dealership offers an online scheduling tool where you can select your vehicle, the type of service needed (such as an oil change or brake inspection), and your preferred time slot.

Does the dealership offer financing for people with bad credit?

The finance department works with a wide variety of lenders and is experienced in helping customers with various credit backgrounds find manageable loan or lease options.

What cities does Ross Downing Chevrolet serve?

While based in Hammond, the dealership frequently serves customers from Baton Rouge, New Orleans, Covington, Mandeville, Slidell, Amite City, and Laplace.

How can I contact the parts department directly?

You can reach the parts department by calling (985) 520-0865 during their operating hours from Monday to Friday.