What do you use onstar for

You can access some of these features by contacting OnStar, but there's also an app you can install on your smartphone.

The RemoteLink software only works with certain vehicles, and it's not available on all smartphones. Still, it can give you access to live diagnostic information, allow you to start your car remotely, and contact an OnStar advisor when you're not in your vehicle. OnStar has access to a lot of data about your driving habits, so some people have expressed privacy concerns.

The FBI has even attempted to use the system to eavesdrop on private conversations, but the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals denied them the ability to do so. GM also set up OnStar to make a noticeable noise whenever an operator places an incoming call, making it impossible for an unscrupulous operator to eavesdrop. OnStar also claims that it anonymizes GPS data before selling it to third parties, but this practice remains a privacy concern.

While the data may not be tied directly to your name or the VIN of your car or truck, GPS data is, by its nature, not anonymous. GM also purportedly tracks this data even after canceling your OnStar subscription, though it is possible to sever the data connection completely.

More information is available from GM via the official OnStar privacy policy. Actively scan device characteristics for identification. Use precise geolocation data. Select personalised content. Create a personalised content profile. Measure ad performance. Select basic ads. Create a personalised ads profile. Select personalised ads. Apply market research to generate audience insights. Measure content performance. Develop and improve products. List of Partners vendors. Jeremy Laukkonen. Facebook Twitter LinkedIn.

Updated on October 15, Tweet Share Email. In This Article. What's Available With OnStar. How Does OnStar Work? Available Features. How to Get OnStar. How to Use OnStar. Don't worry, your vehicle will email Priority Chevrolet when you're due for maintenance and we will contact you to set up an appointment.

Is your vehicle running a little rough or is is just your imagination? Diagnostic Alerts will take the guess work out of day-to-day vehicle maintenance and alert you of any immediate issues your vehicle is having.

Find your way anywhere, conveniently and safely with OnStar's Navigation features. Getting directions is as easy as pushing a button and telling your Advisor where you want to go! Directions are quickly downloaded to your vehicle and a voice will guide you at every turn. With over 14 million Places of Interests in its database, OnStar can help you find everything from the best restaurant in town, to a local independent movie theatre to the best priced 5 star hotel!

Available in different plans and options, here are some of the features OnStar offers:. There are four basic plans offered by OnStar, according to their website , with several options for add-ons. If there are services you want, there's a plan that offers them.

Contact OnStar directly to figure out the ideal plan for your vehicle. Here are the four main options. Even though this is the basic plan, it covers a lot of bases.

You'll benefit from the SmartDriver feature which can help lower your car insurance costs while helping you drive safer and more efficiently. This feature also helps drivers stay more alert and aware rather than depending too much on driver-assist systems like adaptive cruise control.

The basic OnStar plan also keeps you up-to-date on your vehicle's maintenance needs and repairs. You'll never miss an oil change or tire rotation again. You'll also enjoy several remote capabilities like door lock control and remote start, if the vehicle is equipped to handle that.

The AtYourService feature is also a part of the basic plan, which helps you make restaurant reservations, order pizza , and find nearby coffee shops. In addition to all of the services covered in the basic plan, the protection plan provides help in times of emergency, says Miami Lakes Auto Mall. This is the plan for those who want the extra confidence of knowing that they and their loved ones will be cared for in the event of a crisis or accident.

OnStar advisors are always ready to help in your time of need. If your vehicle is involved in an accident, an advisor will automatically be notified and can help get a first responder right to the vehicle's location without requiring anything from the driver or passengers. This can save lives when an accident results in a driver being unable to call for help. Crisis assistance is similar to roadside assistance, but it allows drivers to ask for help in the event of dangerous weather conditions or another type of crisis that needs emergency help.

With this plan, help is available with the simple push of the OnStar button in the vehicle, so you don't even need your phone. If you go with the OnStar security plan, you'll enjoy all the same features of the basic and protection plans, plus you'll get the Stolen Vehicle Assistance feature. This allows drivers to work with the authorities to find their vehicle if it's stolen by using the GPS sensors in the car.

Another perk of this plan is the alarm alert that will notify you through your smartphone if your vehicle's car alarm is activated. Add on turn-by-turn directions through the OnStar system with the guidance plan. This isn't just run-of-the-mill navigation; these are directions from a live OnStar advisor.