Shopping for a used vehicle can feel like a gamble. The paint looks great, but what about everything you can't see? That's the gap CarBravo was built to close, and it's a topic shoppers bring up often at Olson Chevrolet of Hutchinson. Here's a clear look at what is CarBravo, what it takes to earn certification, and why drivers appreciate the peace of mind.
Key Takeaways
- Since June 2026, CarBravo has been the sole used-vehicle certification program for U.S. Chevrolet, Buick and GMC dealers.
- CarBravo Certified vehicles must be under 10 model years old, have fewer than 100,000 miles and pass a 126-point inspection.
- Older, higher-mileage vehicles may qualify for the BravoBudget tier after a 62-point inspection.
- CarBravo Certified vehicles include a 12-month/12,000-mile Bumper-to-Bumper Limited Warranty with no deductible.
What Is CarBravo and How Does It Work?
CarBravo is General Motors' certified used-vehicle program, offered through participating GM dealerships and online. Every vehicle is inspected by a certified technician, includes a vehicle history report, and is backed by limited warranty coverage.
GM launched CarBravo in 2022, and in June 2026 it moved its Chevrolet, Buick and GMC certified business entirely under the CarBravo banner. That means CarBravo certified vehicles are now how GM certification works at Chevy dealerships nationwide.
How does CarBravo work for shoppers? You can browse online, shop in person, or mix both. After purchase, covered warranty repairs can be handled at any CarBravo dealership in the country, including parts, labor, and towing to the nearest CarBravo dealer if needed. That's handy on a trip up north or into the Twin Cities.
What Qualifies a Vehicle to Be CarBravo Certified?
A vehicle must be less than 10 model years old, have fewer than 100,000 miles, and pass a 126-point inspection. The dealer also has to complete every open safety recall before it can be listed or sold.
CarBravo inspection standards go well beyond a quick look under the hood. The checklist covers safety, performance, and cosmetic condition, and anything that falls short must be repaired or reconditioned first. A certified technician, the service manager, and the used vehicle manager all sign off, and GM can disqualify a vehicle based on its service records or history report. Vehicles outside the main tier may still qualify for BravoBudget, which covers older, higher-mileage vehicles with lighter coverage:
| Factor | CarBravo Certified | BravoBudget |
|---|---|---|
| Vehicle age | Under 10 model years | About 10–15 model years |
| Mileage | Under 100,000 | About 100,000–150,000 |
| Inspection | 126-point | 62-point |
| Included warranty | 12-month/12,000-mile Bumper-to-Bumper | 30-day/1,000-mile Powertrain |
Why Do Shoppers Love the CarBravo Benefits?
It comes down to confidence. So, what is a CarBravo vehicle in everyday terms? It's a used vehicle that's been checked, documented, and backed. Roadside Assistance and Courtesy Transportation are included for the length of the included warranty, and My GM Rewards members earn points at delivery. Optional BravoCare plans add a Protection Plan, Pre-Paid Maintenance, Tire & Wheel Protection or GAP Coverage. After a Minnesota freeze-thaw season, that tire-and-wheel coverage makes a lot of sense.
Shop With More Confidence
The GM CarBravo program takes much of the guesswork out of buying used. If you're browsing used Chevy vehicles in Hutchinson, MN, our team at Olson Chevrolet of Hutchinson can walk you through how CarBravo applies to the vehicle you're considering.
Looking for a CarBravo dealer in Hutchinson, MN? Browse our used inventory, ask which vehicles are CarBravo Certified, or contact our team to schedule a test drive!
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Olson Chevrolet of Hutchinson
Saturday: 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Sunday: Closed