OnStar Technology

With more than two million subscribers, OnStar¹ is the leading provider of telematics services in the United States. Telematics is the transmission of data communications between systems and devices. OnStar's in-vehicle safety, security, and information services use Global Positioning System (GPS) satellite and cellular technology to link the vehicle and driver to the OnStar Center. At the OnStar Center, advisors offer real-time, personalized help 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Find out more about OnStar technology:

Automatic Crash Response System
GM Vehicles Equipped with Automatic Crash Response
How You Stay Connected
OnStar Equipment
GPS Technology

How You Stay Connected

Contact OnStar using the three-button system
Establish direct voice contact with an OnStar Advisor using the built-in microphone, cellular antenna in your vehicle, and cellular network
An Advisor can pinpoint your location using GPS technology. (Based on model availability.)
On most newer models, built-in crash sensors can also automatically alert OnStar even if your airbags do not deploy, and send critical crash details
OnStar module connects vehicle computer to OnStar via cellular antenna
Cellular antenna connects vehicle through cellular network

OnStar Equipment

All OnStar-equipped vehicles have one of three types of equipment, based on wireless network technologies:

Analog-Only:
OnStar-equipped vehicles with analog-only equipment were designed to operate only on the analog wireless network and cannot be upgraded to operate on the digital network. Vehicles with this equipment will no longer be able to receive OnStar services beginning January 1, 2008. At that time, service will be available only through dual-mode (analog/digital) equipment. Analog-only vehicles cannot be upgraded to digital equipment.
Analog/Digital-Ready:
OnStar-equipped vehicles with analog/digital-ready equipment operate on the analog wireless network, but can be upgraded to dual-mode (analog/digital) equipment if available for that vehicle. Beginning January 1, 2008, OnStar service will not be available on these vehicles unless the OnStar equipment has been upgraded to dual-mode (analog/digital) equipment.
Dual-Mode (Analog/Digital):
OnStar-equipped vehicles with dual-mode (analog/digital) equipment operate on both the analog and digital wireless networks and will not require an upgrade in connection with the wireless industry's transition to the digital network.

GPS Technology

How GPS Works

Global positioning system (GPS) satellite technology measures how long it takes a radio signal from a satellite to reach a vehicle, and then calculates distance using that time. OnStar uses the latest GPS receiver and antenna technology to get the most accurate vehicle location. Additionally, in some vehicles the wheel speed and direction are also used to further enhance OnStar's ability on location technology.

¹OnStar services require vehicle electrical system (including battery), wireless service and GPS satellite signals to be available and operating for features to function properly. Subscription Service Agreement required. Call 1.888.4.ONSTAR (1.888.466.7827) or visit onstar.com for OnStar's Terms and Conditions, Privacy Statement and system limitations and details. Additional information can be found in the OnStar Owner's Guide.