Vehicle Software Updates 

Keeping your vehicle up to date with the latest technology

Vehicle Software Updates 

Keeping your vehicle up to date with the latest technology

See FAQs for availability. 

 

The Power of Being Connected 

As a part of our free 10 years of Standard Connectivity*, you can now keep your vehicle up to date with the latest OnStar Over-the-Air updates*. Vehicle updates (Software installation must be user initiated while vehicle is parked) are sent directly to your vehicle's infotainment screen, so you choose when to install them. Stay ahead of the curve and improve your in-vehicle experience.

Better Drives with Vehicle Software Updates  

Our world is constantly changing. And now, your vehicle* can keep up with these changes. Thanks to vehicle software updates, you receive free enhancements, and get bug fixes. All while you’re parked in your driveway, thanks to OnStar Over-the-Air (OTA) technology. Your vehicle’s connectivity will do all the work — no paid data necessary.

 

Because this technology sends updates directly to your vehicle’s infotainment screen, you can install the latest and greatest software with the simple push of a button. Take advantage of these updates to improve your in-vehicle experience and make your vehicle better over time 

Vehicle Software Updates Delivered Right to Your Car 

When it comes to software updates, your vehicle’s connectivity takes care of everything, so you don’t have to. Using Over-the-Air (OTA) technology, software updates can be downloaded and installed via the vehicle’s available built-in data connection, or a personal Wi-Fi® connection* (If connected to a paid network such as a personal mobile device hotspot, home network or public network, data charges apply.). A paid data plan is not required. To be eligible for vehicle software updates for your vehicle, you must have accepted the connected vehicle User Terms for OnStar Connected Vehicle Services and Privacy Statement for the vehicle.

 

You will receive a notification when installation is ready. All you need to do is to make sure your vehicle has connectivity and is parked in a safe location, then simply follow the on-screen prompts to install. Remember, installations can take up to 20 minutes to complete, can’t be stopped once started, and it is normal for your infotainment screen to stay on during installation. Taking advantage of these updates is recommended as they can improve your in-vehicle experience and your vehicle’s functionality over time. 

The innovations being made to vehicles connected by OnStar are so amazing, so fast and so endless, it's scary.

Download & Installation Process for Software Updates 

  • If you drive an eligible vehicle*, the update will be downloaded in the background. This can then be installed through the infotainment screen when you park your vehicle.  

 

  • To help ensure that your vehicle software update download is successful, make sure your vehicle has connectivity. The best way to do so is to avoid parking in a garage or covered space.  
 
  • After your download is complete, you will receive a notification to install the update when you park your vehicle. When you’re ready, install the update, tap ‘install’ and follow the prompts appearing on screen. Generally, the software installation is expected to take 20 minutes or less and can’t be stopped once you start it. While your infotainment screen may stay on during the installation, it will automatically power off upon completion. You will not need to remain in your vehicle during the installation and neither does your vehicle need to be switched on. 

Frequently asked questions

What are Over-the-Air vehicle software updates?

Over-the-Air (OTA) technology allows some vehicle software updates for certain vehicle components to be downloaded and installed over a wireless connection. This technology provides a convenient way to update your vehicle with some of the latest available software. This functionality is available on OnStar equipped Chevrolet, GMC and Cadillac vehicles* from 2021 onwards.

How do I know if my vehicle supports Over-the-Air vehicle software updates?

To confirm if your vehicle supports Over-the-Air vehicle software updates, go to the "Settings" menu in your infotainment system and look for either of the following:  

  • Under the "System" tab, go to the "Vehicle Software" section and look for "Updates" 
  • Choose "Software Information" and then look for "System Update"

 

If you see these options, your vehicle supports Over-the Air vehicle software updates. Steps may vary by vehicle. To be eligible for vehicle software updates for your vehicle, you must have an activated vehicle by accepting the User Terms for OnStar Connected Services and Privacy Statement for that vehicle. 

 

Note: If you declined the User Terms for OnStar Connected Services and Privacy Statement for the vehicle, the vehicle will not be eligible for vehicle software updates. 

How long will an Over-the-Air vehicle software update take?

The first step is to accept the download of the software. Download times will vary depending on the size of the update and the wireless signal strength. You can continue to use your vehicle normally during the software download.

 

Once the software is downloaded, you can begin the installation process. Your vehicle will be immobilized (i.e., will not be usable/drivable) during this portion of the process. This cannot be overridden once the installation has begun.

 

Vehicle software update installation times will vary depending on the component being updated and the contents of the update. The in-vehicle notice will provide the estimated completion time for the installation. Generally, the software installation is expected to take 20 minutes or less. 

Can I use my vehicle while the software is being downloaded or installed?

During the software download, you can continue to use your vehicle normally. The download will automatically pause and resume if you turn your vehicle off or lose network connectivity during the download (e.g., if you pull into a parking garage).

 

During the installation, the vehicle will be disabled and cannot be driven for most updates:

  • Please park your vehicle in a safe and secure location
  • You will not need to remain in your vehicle during the installation
  • Features, such as door locks, windows and chimes, may not work during the installation
  • If you leave the vehicle, do not lock occupants inside


You may notice one or more system resets during the installation process.

If you love staying connected to all the latest, wait till you see what else we have to offer.

Exciting? We thought so. Upgrade and witness your car transform into a connected marvel. Stay in the loop effortlessly with instant access to your vehicle status and control settings. Get the convenience of real-time Navigation and On-demand Diagnostics. The connected services you desire and more.

Connected Plan* Highlights

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