Onstar what is it

OnStar is a subsidiary of General Motors (GM) that provides a range of in-vehicle services, primarily focused on safety, security, and connectivity. It was launched in 1996 and has since become a popular feature in many GM vehicles.

Here are some key aspects of OnStar:

1. Emergency Services: One of the primary functions of OnStar is to provide immediate assistance in case of emergencies. Users can press a button to connect with an OnStar advisor who can dispatch emergency services to their location, whether it's for medical assistance, roadside assistance, or in the event of a collision where airbags deploy.
2. Stolen Vehicle Assistance: OnStar can help track and recover stolen vehicles by working with law enforcement agencies. They can remotely disable the vehicle's engine to prevent it from being started and assist in locating the stolen vehicle.
3. Navigation and Directions: OnStar offers turn-by-turn navigation services, helping drivers get to their destinations more easily. Users can request directions and have them sent directly to their vehicle's navigation system.
4. Vehicle Diagnostics: OnStar can remotely run diagnostic checks on the vehicle's systems and provide maintenance alerts to the driver. This helps vehicle owners stay on top of maintenance and potentially avoid breakdowns.
5. Remote Vehicle Control: Some equipped vehicles allow users to remotely lock or unlock doors, start the engine, and perform other functions using a smartphone app. This can be convenient for warming up the car on a cold day or locking it if you forgot to do so.
6. In-Car Wi-Fi: OnStar offers a Wi-Fi hotspot feature in many vehicles, allowing passengers to connect their devices to the internet while on the go.
7. Connected Services: OnStar is part of GM's strategy to create connected vehicles, which can communicate with each other and with infrastructure to improve safety and efficiency. For example, vehicles can communicate traffic and road condition information to the cloud, which can then be shared with other vehicles to help with navigation.

Onstar, how does it work on different cars?

It's important to note that OnStar services may vary depending on the vehicle model and the subscription plan chosen by the user. Some services may be included for a limited time with the purchase of a new vehicle, while others may require a subscription fee for continued use. Additionally, the availability may vary by region and market.