How to cancel OnStar
You can cancel OnStar by calling 1-888-466-7827, by logging into your OnStar account online and selecting cancellation, or by visiting an OnStar dealer. The fastest method is usually the phone call — you will reach a representative who can process the cancellation when ready and confirm your end date. If you cancel online, the change takes effect at the end of your current billing cycle. Cancellation does not require a reason, and you will not face an early termination fee if your subscription has already expired or if you are cancelling during a free trial period.
The timing of your cancellation matters because OnStar bills in advance. If you cancel mid-cycle, you will lose access to the service on your cancellation date, but you will not receive a refund for the unused portion of that month. Some readers find it worth waiting until their next billing date to cancel, so they use the service through the last day they are paying for.
Key Takeaways
- Call 1-888-466-7827 to cancel OnStar over the phone; a representative will confirm your cancellation date when ready.
- Online cancellation through your OnStar account takes effect at the end of your current billing cycle, not the same day.
- OnStar does not charge early termination fees once your initial subscription period has ended or if you are cancelling a free trial.
- You will not receive a refund for unused service if you cancel mid-cycle, so timing your cancellation to your billing date can save money.
- After cancellation, your vehicle will lose emergency calling, roadside information, and remote features like door unlock and vehicle diagnostics.
Cancelling by phone: the fastest route
Calling 1-888-466-7827 is the most direct way to cancel. You will need your OnStar account number or the vehicle identification number (VIN) of the car linked to your account. The representative will confirm your current subscription plan, ask when you want the service to end, and process the cancellation on the spot. Request written confirmation via email or mail so you have a record of the cancellation date.
OnStar's phone lines are typically open during business hours, and wait times vary by time of day. If you reach a busy period, you can ask to be called back rather than holding. Be clear about your cancellation date — some representatives will offer discounts or trial periods to keep you as a customer, so know in advance whether you want to stay or go.
Cancelling through your online account
Log into your OnStar account at onstar.com using your email and password. Navigate to your account settings or subscription management section — the exact menu location varies depending on whether you use the website or the mobile app. Look for an option labeled "Manage Subscription," "Cancel Service," or "End Membership." Select it and follow the prompts to confirm your cancellation.
Online cancellation is not when ready. Your service will end on the last day of your current billing cycle, not the day you submit the cancellation request. This delay means you will continue to have access to OnStar features until that date. If you need the service to stop sooner, call the phone number above instead — a representative can set an earlier end date.
What happens to your vehicle after cancellation
Once OnStar is cancelled, your vehicle loses access to all OnStar features. Emergency calling through OnStar will no longer work — your car will not automatically contact emergency services if airbags deploy. Roadside information, stolen vehicle tracking, remote door unlock, vehicle diagnostics, and navigation services all stop functioning. If your vehicle has a built-in OnStar button or display, it will show that the service is inactive.
Some newer vehicles have OnStar built into their infotainment system. Cancelling OnStar does not affect your radio, Bluetooth, or other entertainment features — only the OnStar-specific services are removed. If your vehicle has a separate OnStar module or antenna, it remains in the car but will not transmit or receive data.
Early termination fees and refund policies
OnStar does not charge an early termination fee if your initial contract period has already ended. Most OnStar subscriptions come with a set term — often one year — and after that term expires, you can cancel without penalty. If you are still within your initial contract period and you cancel early, OnStar may charge a fee; the amount depends on your plan and how much time remains on your contract.
Free trial periods can be cancelled at any time without a fee. If you received OnStar free with your vehicle purchase or as a promotional offer, cancelling during that trial will not result in a charge. Once the trial ends and paid service begins, the early termination policy applies. Check your OnStar welcome materials or account page to see your contract end date.
Cancelling OnStar through a dealer
You can also cancel OnStar in person at a General Motors dealership. Visit the service department and ask to speak with someone who handles OnStar accounts. Bring your vehicle keys and a form of identification. The dealer can process the cancellation and provide you with a receipt. This method works well if you are already at the dealership for maintenance or service, but it is not faster than calling.
Some dealers may try to sell you a different OnStar plan or offer a discount to keep your service active. You are not obligated to accept any offer — straightforward state that you want to cancel and ask for written confirmation of the cancellation date.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I be charged if I cancel OnStar during a free trial?
No. Free trials can be cancelled at any time without a charge. Once the trial period ends and your first paid billing cycle begins, the early termination policy applies. Check your OnStar account or welcome materials to see when your trial ends.
Can I get a refund for unused OnStar service?
OnStar does not refund unused service if you cancel mid-cycle. Your service ends on your cancellation date, but you will not receive money back for the days remaining in that billing period. Timing your cancellation to your next billing date can avoid this loss.
What if I cancel and then want OnStar back?
You can reactivate OnStar by calling 1-888-466-7827 or logging into your account online. Reactivation is treated as a new subscription, so you may be offered a promotional rate or trial period. Your vehicle's OnStar hardware remains in place, so no physical installation is needed.
Does cancelling OnStar affect my vehicle's warranty?
No. Cancelling OnStar does not void your vehicle's warranty or affect any other coverage. OnStar is an optional service, and your warranty remains valid whether you use it or not.
How long does it take for OnStar to stop working after I cancel?
If you cancel by phone, OnStar typically stops working on the date the representative gives you — usually within one to three business days. If you cancel online, the service stops at the end of your current billing cycle, which could be several weeks away. Call if you need it to stop sooner.