Onstar question?

[hummer74]

if i dont subscribe to onstar, and my vehicle gets stolen, can i call them and subscribe then have them locate it for me??? if true, then i wont need lojack. anyone know??

[f5fstop]

Interesting question, not sure, but I would say no.
In all their activation instructions, they tell you to activate via the button on the Onstar system. This is the way they identify your vehicle, and place the account in your name. It is also the time that you set up your PIN number, for use when outside the vehicle (locked keys in vehicle, locate vehicle in a parking lot, located stolen vehicle, etc.)
Without the PIN, and without the system already setup, even with the magic police code, Onstar may not legally be able to activate for an unknown person.
So, if your vehicle is stolen, you would "probably" need the thieves to activate the Onstar button; which I believe would be rough.

Best advice, call 'em, but I do believe the Onstar button has to be pushed in order to recognize the vehicle for the initital setup of the system for each specific vehicle.

[wingnut2u]

I asked Onstar that very question and their reply was that you HAVE to be in the car to activate the system. It cannot be activated post hoc externally, therefore they would NOT be able to find your car if stolen, or unlock the doors, etc.

[timgco]

on a side note: when you activate it, make sure you have to know your password to use it( NO EXCEPTIONS) If someone is smart enough to find your address and phone number, they can unlock your vehicle using OnStar.