How to Deactivate OnStar: Your Complete Privacy Guide

You’ve heard the news about GM selling your driving data to insurance companies, and now you’re wondering how to pull the plug on OnStar. Good instinct. This guide walks you through every method—from simple phone calls to pulling fuses—so you can take back control of your privacy.

Why You Should Deactivate OnStar

OnStar isn’t just about emergency services anymore. GM’s been collecting granular driving data—hard braking, acceleration, trip times—and selling it to data brokers like LexisNexis without clear consent. Insurance companies bought this data and used it to jack up premiums, often without drivers understanding why.

The 2025 FTC settlement banned GM from selling this data for five years, but that doesn’t erase what’s already collected. And the ban expires. If you want to stop feeding the surveillance machine, you need to act now.

Here’s the thing: as long as OnStar’s connected, your car’s potentially broadcasting. Even “free” basic plans collect data. Deactivation is your only guarantee.

Cancel OnStar Over the Phone (The Official Route)

This is step one. You need to officially terminate the service to stop billing and create a legal record of your intent.

Call OnStar Member Services

Dial 1-888-4ONSTAR (1-888-466-7827). Navigate the voice menu and get to a human. Here’s what happens next: the advisor will read a retention script designed to scare you. “If you cancel, we can’t help you if you crash in a remote area.” Don’t fall for it.

Your counter-script: Say this verbatim: “I’m cancelling for privacy reasons and I’m recording this call.” This usually shuts down the discount offers. Demand a cancellation confirmation number or email. Without it, you’ve got no proof.

Use the Blue Button Method

Press the blue OnStar button in your car. This connects you directly to an advisor who automatically sees your VIN and account status. Some drivers report this method gives you access to advisors with more authority to modify accounts immediately.

The downside? You’re on speakerphone, which can feel awkward. But it’s faster than navigating phone menus.

The Online Cancellation Myth

GM claims you can cancel via the “My Account” portal. Reality check: most users get redirected to “Call an advisor to finalize” when they try. You might cancel specific add-ons (like the WiFi hotspot) online, but core services typically require a phone call.

Don’t Forget the “Basic” Plan

Here’s where GM gets sneaky. Even after you cancel paid subscriptions, many 2018+ vehicles come with 5-10 years of “Connected Access” or “Basic” service baked into the purchase price. This tier still includes the Smart Driver data collection that got GM in trouble.

When you call to cancel, explicitly demand termination of all connectivity, including Basic/Connected Access. Advisors may claim it’s “free and can’t be cancelled.” That’s garbage. Under the new FTC consent rules, you have the right to sever all data transmission.

Turn Off Smart Driver in the App

If you want to keep remote start but stop the insurance spying, there’s a software compromise:

1. Open your MyChevrolet/MyGMC/MyBuick/MyCadillac app
2. Tap your initials (top right) → Account → Data & Privacy
3. Find OnStar Smart Driver and toggle it OFF
4. Check “Trip Overviews” after a few days—it should say no trips are recorded

Warning: Software settings can revert after app updates or when you agree to new Terms of Service. Check this monthly.

Understanding Your Vehicle’s Architecture (This Matters)

Before you touch any hardware, you need to know what generation of electronics your GM vehicle uses. There are two major platforms, and they behave completely differently.

Global A Architecture (Older Vehicles)

Generally covers vehicles designed before 2019—like the 2017-2022 Chevy Bolt EV, Silverado 1500 through 2018/2019, and third-gen Equinox. These use a standard CAN bus system where modules communicate but don’t cryptographically verify each other.

What this means for you: You can usually unplug the OnStar module or pull its fuse without bricking the car. Worst-case side effects are losing the compass and Bluetooth microphone.

Global B Architecture (Newer Vehicles)

Introduced with the 2020 Cadillac CT5 and C8 Corvette, expanded to full-size SUVs in 2021, and the Silverado/Sierra refresh in 2022. The 2024+ Equinox EV, Traverse, and Acadia are all Global B.

These platforms use digital signatures and module pairing. The telematics unit is considered a “critical node.” If the system detects it’s missing, you might get:

• Limp mode
• Refusal to start
• Cascading error messages (“Service Theft Deterrent System”)
• Inability to receive critical software updates

Bottom line: If you’ve got a Global B vehicle, physical deactivation is risky. Stick with administrative cancellation.

How to Deactivate OnStar Physically (Global A Vehicles)

If you’ve got an older Global A vehicle and want guaranteed data silence, physical deactivation is your best bet. There are three levels of intervention.

Method 1: Pull the Fuse (Easiest)

This cuts power to the Telematics Communication Interface Control Module (TCICM). It’s simple and reversible.

The microphone problem: In many GM vehicles, the Bluetooth microphone signal routes through the OnStar module before reaching your infotainment system. No power to OnStar = no hands-free calling.

The exception: Some newer Global A vehicles (like the 2022-2023 Bolt EUV) have independent microphone circuits. Pulling the right fuse disables OnStar but keeps the mic working.

Step-by-Step Fuse Pulling

1. Find the right fuse: Open your owner’s manual to the “Instrument Panel Fuse Block” diagram. Look for fuses labeled “OnStar,” “VTSS,” “Telematics,” or “TCICM.” Don’t guess.
2. Access the block: Usually on the side of the dashboard (visible when the door’s open) or behind a panel near your left knee.
3. Pull it: Use a fuse puller tool (often in the engine bay fuse box) to extract the fuse.
4. Verify:
   • Turn on the ignition
   • Check the OnStar LED on your overhead console—it should be completely off
   • Press the blue button—no response
   • Test Bluetooth calling to check microphone function

Method 2: Disconnect the Antennas (Preserves Microphone)

This is the sweet spot for most users. You disable tracking while keeping the module powered to preserve microphone functionality and avoid CAN bus errors.

Why you can’t just unplug: If you disconnect the antenna cables without replacing them, the radio energy has nowhere to go. It reflects back into the transceiver, potentially overheating and damaging the internal amplifier. You need to give that energy somewhere safe to dissipate.

The Dummy Load Solution

Replace the antennas with “dummy loads”—resistors that absorb radio energy as negligible heat.

Hardware needed:

• FAKRA-to-SMA adapters (GM uses FAKRA connectors)
• SMA 50-Ohm terminators (small brass caps)

Which connectors to target:

Installation Steps

1. Locate the OnStar module (see vehicle-specific section below)
2. Unclip the Purple and Blue FAKRA connectors
3. Plug FAKRA adapters into the module’s ports
4. Screw on the 50-Ohm terminators
5. Tape the loose factory antenna cables to prevent rattling

Result: The module thinks it’s transmitting, but the signal never leaves the metal box. Your microphone keeps working.

Method 3: Remove the Entire Module

Complete hardware removal requires a custom “loopback” harness to bridge the microphone pins. These aren’t standard parts—you’d need to source one from specialty car audio installers.

Reality check: High probability of dashboard error lights. Only worth it if you’re doing a complete audio system overhaul.

Vehicle-Specific Deactivation Guides

Location and procedures vary significantly by model. Here’s what you need to know for the most common GM vehicles.

Chevrolet Bolt EV & EUV (2017-2023)

2017-2021 Models:

• Module location: Behind the glovebox, mounted vertically to the right of the cabin air filter
• Access: Open glovebox, squeeze sides inward to release stops, drop door down
• Fuse: F31 (Instrument Panel)—pulling it disables the microphone
• Recommendation: Use antenna isolation to keep mic working

2022-2023 Bolt EUV (The Easy Winner):

• The golden fuse: Fuse F02 in the Instrument Panel Fuse Block
• Finding it: Open driver’s door, pop off the plastic end-cap of the dashboard
• Magic: Pulling F02 kills OnStar but the microphone keeps working
• This is the easiest deactivation path for any GM vehicle, period

Chevrolet Silverado / GMC Sierra 1500

2019-2022 Limited (Pre-Refresh):

• Platform: Global A
• Module location: Often mounted high in the dashboard, sometimes behind the infotainment screen
• Access: Remove trim bezel around screen (clips), unbolt screen (7mm screws)
• Fuse: Pulling “OnStar” or “Info” fuse often kills compass and map lights
• Recommendation: Antenna isolation if you can access the module

2022.5+ Refresh (Global B):

• Warning: These trucks have the new 13.4-inch widescreen and digital gauge cluster
• Do not attempt physical deactivation—highly likely to trigger “Service Safety Restraint System” errors
• The module is cryptographically paired to the ECU
• Stick with administrative cancellation only

Chevrolet Equinox (2018-2024)

Generation 3 (2018-2024):

• Module location: Behind glovebox (like Bolt) OR behind rear cargo trim panel (passenger side)
• Rear cargo access: Remove spare tire cover, pull plastic trim on passenger wall
• Microphone note: 2018 models usually lose mic with fuse removal; 2020+ may retain it (test required)

Generation 4 / EV (2024+):

• Global B architecture—do not attempt physical removal

Cadillac & Corvette C8

The C8 Corvette (2020+) launched Global B. OnStar is integral to vehicle operation, including over-the-air updates for transmission and engine. Physical removal isn’t viable for a street-driven car.

Quick Reference: OnStar Fuse Locations

Erase Your Historical Data

Disabling the device stops future collection, but your past driving data sits on servers at LexisNexis and Verisk Analytics. Here’s how to clean house.

Request Your Consumer Disclosure Report

You have the right to see what data brokers know about you.

LexisNexis Risk Solutions:

• Request portal: consumer.risk.lexisnexis.com/request
• You’ll need: photo of driver’s license and proof of address
• Look for: “Telematics” or “Driving Behavior” sections with trip logs, hard brake counts, rapid acceleration events

Verisk Analytics:

• Portal: fcra.verisk.com
• Same documentation requirements

Dispute and Delete the Data

If reports contain data collected without proper consent (which the FTC confirmed was happening), you can dispute it.

Your argument: Cite the 2025 FTC Settlement (In the Matter of General Motors LLC). State that data was collected via deceptive enrollment practices lacking valid consent. Demand removal.

Send a certified letter or use the online dispute portal.

Contact GM’s Privacy Office

The FTC settlement requires GM to facilitate data deletion.

Contact: 1-866-MYPRIVACY (1-866-697-7482)
Request: “Deletion of all Telematics and Connected Vehicle Data” associated with your VIN
Follow-up: Verify if deletion propagates to their third-party partners

Your Privacy Action Checklist

Here’s your step-by-step plan:

Week 1:

• Call 1-888-466-7827 and cancel all OnStar services (including Basic/Connected Access)
• Get cancellation confirmation number
• Turn off Smart Driver in your mobile app

Week 2:

• Check your vehicle’s architecture (Global A or B)
• If Global A: decide between fuse pulling or antenna isolation
• If Global B: skip physical deactivation

Week 3:

• Request Consumer Disclosure Reports from LexisNexis and Verisk
• Call GM Privacy Office to request data deletion

Week 4:

• Review reports when they arrive (14-30 days)
• Dispute any data collected without consent
• Verify OnStar shows as inactive in your vehicle

The automakers don’t make this easy, but you’ve got the tools now. Your car, your data, your choice.