How OnStar Service Works
The OnStar system can record
and transmit vehicle information.
This information is automatically sent
to an OnStar Call Center when the
OnStar button is pressed, the
emergency button is pressed, or if
the airbags deploy. This information
usually includes the vehicle’s GPS
location and, in the event of a crash,
additional information regarding the
crash that the vehicle was involved
in (e.g. the direction from which
the vehicle was hit). When the
Virtual Advisor feature of OnStar
Hands-Free Calling is used, the
vehicle also sends OnStar the
vehicle’s GPS location so they can
provide services where it is located.
OnStar service cannot work unless
the vehicle is in a place where
OnStar has an agreement with a
wireless service provider for service
in that area. OnStar service also
cannot work unless the vehicle is in
a place where the wireless serviceprovider OnStar has hired for that
area has coverage, network capacity
and reception when the service is
needed, and technology that is
compatible with the OnStar service.
Not all services are available
everywhere, particularly in remote or
enclosed areas, or at all times.
Location information about the
vehicle is only available if the GPS
satellite signals are unobstructed
and available.
The vehicle must have a working
electrical system, including adequate
battery power, for the OnStar
equipment to operate. There are
other problems OnStar cannot
control that may prevent OnStar
from providing OnStar service at
any particular time or place.
Some examples are damage to
important parts of the vehicle in a
crash, hills, tall buildings, tunnels,
weather or wireless phone network
congestion.Your Responsibility
Increase the volume of the radio if
the OnStar advisor cannot be heard.
If the light next to the OnStar
buttons is red, the system may not
be functioning properly. Press
the OnStar button and request a
vehicle diagnostic. If the light
appears clear (no light is appearing),
your OnStar subscription has
expired and all services have been
deactivated. Press the OnStar
button to con rm that the OnStar
equipment is active.
4-40 Instruments and Controls
ProCarManuals.com
