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The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) ruled that cellular carriers will not be required to support the analog cellular network beginning in early 2008. As a result, beginning January 1, 2008, OnStar service will be available only through vehicles that are capable of operating on the digital cellular network. GM engineered digital upgrade kits for their analog OnStar-equipped vehicles that were capable of being upgraded to give many OnStar subscribers the opportunity to continue service after January 1, 2008.

Eligibility requirements
Many GM vehicles with analog/digital-ready OnStar equipment are eligible for the digital upgrade. Click here to see if your vehicle is eligible. You will be prompted to input your vehicle identification number (VIN) into the OnStar look-up tool, which will determine what type of OnStar equipment is currently installed in the vehicle.

Program cost
Eligible customers who purchase a prepaid, non-refundable, non-transferable 1-year OnStar Safe & Sound subscription for $199 (plus applicable subscription tax) will receive an equipment upgrade including parts and labor for only $15.* A Directions & Connections subscription is available as well.

Digital upgrade process
You must visit your GM dealer to have your OnStar equipment upgraded. They will order your vehicle's digital upgrade kit and in most cases you will be asked to return to the dealership one to two days later to have your upgrade performed. The installation usually takes one to two hours. They will also add the 1-year subscription to your account and collect payment from you.

Your vehicle's new digital equipment will be activated automatically — usually within 24 hours. You will receive a new Hands-Free Calling number and any previously stored nametags will need to be reprogrammed into your new digital system.

If you would like to upgrade, contact your GM dealer today. Upgrade kits are only available while supplies last. Click here to find your dealer.

Upgrade benefits
When you upgrade your GM vehicle's OnStar equipment you will be eligible for OnStar service beyond January 1, 2008 and your new digital system will feature the following enhancements:

  • OnStar Hands-Free Calling continuous-digit dialing
  • Improved voice recognition
  • Access to the Verizon Wireless Nationwide Plan with OnStar®§
  • English, Spanish or French language capability

After you upgrade
To learn more about your new digital system, review the new OnStar materials in your glove box and press your blue OnStar button 24-48 hours after your digital upgrade has been completed and ask the Advisor for a brief orientation.

*Excludes GM Family First pricing. Upgraders can apply unused subscription months to a new or certified pre-owned digital OnStar equipped GM vehicle purchase or lease. Subscription cannot be transferred to another person.

OnStar Hands-Free Calling requires a Hands-Free Calling enabled vehicle, existing OnStar service contract, and prepaid minutes or enrollment in a shared minutes plan. Not available in certain markets. Calls may be made to the U.S. and Canada only.

§ Available on most GM vehicles equipped with OnStar digital equipment. Minimum one-year Verizon Wireless contract required on hand-held and one-year remaining OnStar subscription required. Not available in certain markets. Not available with Virtual Advisor and eNav. Call 1.888.4.ONSTAR (1.888.466.7827) or visit onstar.com for details.