Even after your service is cancelled, OnStar can continue to collect data from your vehicle for its marketing and other purposes. [1] X Research source To prevent OnStar from having access to your driving information, continue with this method to learn how to physically disconnect the OnStar module.
Even after your service is cancelled, OnStar can continue to collect data from your vehicle for its marketing and other purposes. [1] X Research source To prevent OnStar from having access to your driving information, continue with this method to learn how to physically disconnect the OnStar module.
If you know that your OnStar is behind the glove box, remove the glove box from the vehicle and skip to step 7. To remove the glove box, open its door and remove any tabs or cords securing it into place. Then, with a hand on either side of the box, push in on both walls to narrow the sides and slide it free. [3] X Research source If the module is in the dash below the stereo, use a plastic auto trim/molding-removal tool (available from an auto supply store) to pry the panel from the dashboard, and then gently pull the panel free. You should be able to slide the silver metal OnStar module its mount without having to unscrew anything. Skip down to step 7 once you see the silver box in the panel. [4] X Research source
After removing the liner, set it aside and look at the newly revealed space. If your vehicle has space for the spare tire, you should see that space and/or the spare tire after removing the liner.
In some cases, there might be a nut in the center of the spare tire compartment holding the tire in place. Use a screwdriver and twist the nut counterclockwise to remove it. After removing the nut, lift out the tire.
If your vehicle has a cargo net in the trunk, you only need to remove the four screws securing the net. Remove both the net and the sill plate. If your vehicle does not have a cargo net in the trunk, the four screws you need to remove should be located in the corners of your trunk. After removing the screws, pull the sill plate up to lift it out of the trunk. Set it and the screws aside in a safe spot while you continue working.
Pull the panel forward just enough so that it clears the stud located in the back lip of the trunk. After pulling it forward, carefully pull it toward the middle of the trunk, revealing the compartment beneath it. Don’t remove the panel completely! You can disconnect the OnStar without using any tools to remove additional paneling.
If you do not see the module on the right side, try the left side of the trunk.
These three cables provide power to the system and allow the system to communicate with OnStar. Pulling them out should shut down the system and block any additional communication.
Coiling the cables will prevent them from getting in the way. It will also make it easier to access the cables again in case you need to reconnect them at some point.
You should also check your other vehicle systems to make sure that none of them were affected. Turn on all lights, radios, and other electric features. Verify that there are no warning lights displayed.
