OnStar offers a free trial period so you can test its services before paying

OnStar is a vehicle safety and connectivity service built into many General Motors vehicles. The service includes emergency roadside information, vehicle diagnostics, remote vehicle access, and navigation features. When you buy or lease a new GM vehicle, OnStar typically includes a free trial period — usually three months, though the length varies by vehicle model and year of purchase.

The free trial lets you use OnStar's core features without a subscription charge. After the trial ends, you decide whether to pay for a subscription to keep the service active. If you do nothing, the service straightforward stops working when the trial period expires.

Key Takeaways

  • New GM vehicle owners receive a free OnStar trial that typically lasts three months, though some vehicles come with longer or shorter periods.
  • During the trial, you can use emergency services, roadside information, vehicle diagnostics, and remote features like unlocking your car or locating it if stolen.
  • OnStar will contact you before the trial ends to explain subscription options and pricing, which varies by the service tier you choose.
  • If you do not purchase a subscription when the trial ends, OnStar features stop working but you can reactivate a paid plan later.
  • You can check your trial status and expiration date through the OnStar mobile app or by calling OnStar directly.

What OnStar services are included in the free trial

During your free trial, you have access to OnStar's emergency services, which means a live advisor can contact emergency responders if your vehicle is in a crash or you press the emergency button. You also get roadside information — OnStar can arrange a tow, fuel delivery, or lockout service if you need it.

The trial includes vehicle diagnostics, which sends information about your car's health to OnStar's system. If something needs attention, OnStar notifies you. You can also use remote features like locking or unlocking your doors, flashing your lights, or locating your vehicle on a map through the OnStar mobile app.

Navigation and turn-by-turn directions are included, along with hands-free calling and voice commands. Some features, like stolen vehicle information (where OnStar can help law enforcement locate your car if it is stolen), are also part of the trial.

How long the free trial lasts

Most new GM vehicles come with a three-month OnStar trial. However, some models or promotional offers include six months or even longer. The exact length depends on when you purchased or leased the vehicle and which GM brand you own — Chevrolet, GMC, Cadillac, and Buick may have different trial lengths.

Your trial period begins when you first set up OnStar, not when you buy the vehicle. set up usually happens automatically when you turn on the vehicle and connect to OnStar's system, but you can also set up it manually through the OnStar app or by calling OnStar at 1-888-4-ONSTAR (1-888-466-7827).

When and how OnStar contacts you about your trial ending

OnStar typically sends you a notice 30 days before your trial expires. This notice comes through email, text message, or the OnStar app, depending on how you set up your account. The message explains your subscription options and pricing.

OnStar may also call you directly to discuss plans. These calls usually come from OnStar's customer service team, not from a third party. If you prefer not to receive these calls, you can opt out through your account settings in the OnStar app.

OnStar subscription pricing after the trial ends

OnStar offers several subscription tiers with different features and price points. The basic plan covers emergency services and roadside information. Mid-tier plans add remote vehicle access and diagnostics. Premium plans include all features plus concierge services and Wi-Fi hotspot capability in your vehicle.

Pricing varies based on which plan you choose and whether you pay monthly or annually. Annual plans usually cost less per month than paying month-to-month. OnStar occasionally runs promotions for new subscribers, so the price you see may not be the same as what someone else pays.

You can see current pricing and compare plans through the OnStar app or by calling OnStar directly. Asking about current promotions when you call can sometimes lower your first-year cost.

What happens if your trial expires without purchasing a subscription

When your trial ends and you have not purchased a subscription, OnStar features stop working. The emergency button in your vehicle will no longer connect to a live advisor. Remote features like unlocking your car through the app will no longer function. Navigation and diagnostics also stop.

You can reactivate OnStar at any time by purchasing a subscription. There is no penalty for letting your trial expire — you straightforward lose access to the service until you pay for it again. If you decide to subscribe later, you start a new subscription period from that date.

How to check your trial status and expiration date

The easiest way to see when your trial ends is through the OnStar mobile app. Open the app, go to your account settings, and look for subscription or trial information. The app shows your current status and the exact date your trial expires.

You can also call OnStar at 1-888-4-ONSTAR to speak with a representative who can tell you your trial end date and answer questions about your account. Have your vehicle identification number (VIN) or OnStar account number ready when you call.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I extend my free trial if it is about to expire?

OnStar does not automatically extend trials, but you can call to ask about current promotions or discounts that might explore to a new subscription. Sometimes OnStar offers reduced rates for first-time subscribers or loyalty discounts if you have been a customer before.

Do I have to use OnStar during my free trial?

No. You can ignore OnStar completely during your trial period. The service will not charge you, and you do not have to do anything to keep the trial active. However, you will need to decide before the trial ends whether you want to pay for a subscription.

What if I sell my vehicle before the trial ends?

The trial is tied to your vehicle, not your account. If you sell the car, the new owner can set up OnStar and start their own trial period. Your trial does not transfer or refund if you sell the vehicle early.

Can I pause my subscription instead of canceling it?

OnStar does not offer a pause option. You can cancel your subscription at any time, and then reactivate it later by purchasing a new plan. There is no waiting period or penalty for canceling and restarting.

Does the free trial include the OnStar Wi-Fi hotspot?

The Wi-Fi hotspot feature is usually only included in higher-tier paid subscription plans, not in the free trial. During your trial, you have access to core safety and navigation features, but Wi-Fi connectivity typically requires a paid subscription.