2G Network Sunset FAQ 

Man in Drivers Seat Reaching for OnStar Blue Button

What is the U.S. 2G network sunset?

Wireless network providers are upgrading their cellular towers in the U.S. from 2G networks to 4G or 5G connectivity. The transition will be completed by December 30, 2022. After the transition, 2G and connectivity will no longer be available. 

What does the 2G network sunset have to do with OnStar and GM vehicles?

Many Chevrolet,® Buick,® GMC ®and Cadillac® vehicles on the road today use OnStar hardware, which leverages cellular networks for connectivity. Older model year Canadian vehicles that have not been upgraded to newer hardware will no longer have network access.

Does the 2G network sunset impact Canada?

In Canada, the 2G network was deactivated in December 2015. Prior to the Canadian 2G network sunset, a program was created to provide OnStar hardware upgrades for many impacted vehicles. Eligible vehicles could be upgraded to 3G or 4G hardware (depending on vehicle model). The hardware program ran from 2015 through 2021 but has now ended. 

Why has the OnStar 3G/4G Hardware Upgrade Program ended in Canada?

Vehicles originally affected by the network sunset in Canada have been disconnected for approximately 6 years. OnStar is excited to offer the OnStar Guardian™ app,* which provides key OnStar safety services right on your smartphone. 

What services are included with the OnStar Guardian app?

The Guardian app provides key OnStar safety services right on your smartphone, including: 

  • Mobile Crash Response 
  • Roadside Assistance* 
  • Emergency Services, including 24/7 Access to OnStar Emergency Certified Advisors*

The OnStar Guardian app also lets you invite up to seven loved ones to the “My Family” group. Everyone gets the safety services within the Guardian app as well as Location Status,* which includes: 

 

  • Real-time location updates 
  • Viewing one another on a live map 
  • Cellphone Battery life status 

Does the OnStar Guardian app let me use the OnStar buttons in my vehicle?

No. The OnStar Guardian app does not enable the OnStar buttons in your vehicle, but you can access similar features — including the blue OnStar button and red Emergency button — from the app. 

How do I get the OnStar Guardian app?

Simply download the app from the App Store* or Google Play.* Follow the on-screen prompts to set up your OnStar Guardian service.  

 

Download the app from Google Play

Download the app from the App Store 

How can I learn more about the OnStar Guardian app?

You can learn more about the OnStar Guardian app here.

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