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Vehicle software updates

With vehicle software updates, you can receive free enhancements, purchase new upgrades and get software refinements using over-the-air technology. Updates are downloaded and installed via Connected Access* or by connecting your vehicle to a Wi-Fi® network — no paid data plan necessary.  

About vehicle software updates

Using over-the-air technology, vehicle software updates are automatically downloaded to your vehicle. Follow the prompts on-screen to install.

 

  • Make sure your vehicle has connectivity. Avoid parking in an underground garage or covered space.

  • To be eligible for vehicle software updates, including automatic Super Cruise®* map updates (if equipped), you must have accepted the connected vehicle User Terms for Connected Vehicle Services and OnStar Privacy Statement for the vehicle. If this isn’t accomplished at vehicle delivery, you can accept these terms on a call with an OnStar Advisor.
     
  • Update notifications will be sent to your vehicle, and you can also manually check for them using the center display.

  • There are two steps to getting the update: software download and installation.

 

Here’s how to check for updates in your center display or see if your vehicle supports updates (steps below may vary by vehicle). Go to:

 

  • Settings > Updates > Updates and History to check for updates.

  • Settings > System > Vehicle Software

  • Settings > Software Information > System Update.

 

Note: If you declined the applicable terms, the vehicle will not be eligible for vehicle software updates. Also, if the conditions for the update aren’t ideal (for instance, your battery state of charge is too low), the update notification might not be visible. In this case, the system will try again at a later time.

 

Learn more here (including details on recent vehicle software updates).

Software download

Software downloads are initiated automatically and occur in the background.

 

  • You can continue to use your vehicle normally during a software download.

  • Downloads automatically pause and resume if you turn off your vehicle or lose connectivity (e.g., if you pull into a parking garage).

  • Download times will vary, depending on the size of an update and your wireless signal strength.

Installation

  • Once a software download is complete, you’ll be prompted to accept the installation of the downloaded software update upon your next drive cycle or the next time your vehicle is placed into PARK after a drive cycle. You can also choose to be reminded later, schedule or decline the installation.

    • If you decline an update, the update will cancel, and you may need to take your vehicle to a Dealer if you want to perform the update later.
       
  • You’ll be asked to put your vehicle in PARK and turn off the engine/vehicle to initiate most updates.

  • While an update is being performed, you can’t drive your vehicle and the center display may remain active during the update. Park in a safe and secure location before beginning any update.

  • Generally, software installation takes about 20 minutes or less.

  • You don’t have to stay in your vehicle during an update.

  • If you leave your vehicle during an update, close your windows and lock your doors. Don’t leave your keys in the vehicle or lock occupants inside.

  • It’s normal for your center display to stay on during an update. You may also notice one or more system resets during an installation process.  

For your security, please don’t include personal info such as phone number, address or credit card details.

Q&As

Can I just get vehicle software updates from my Dealer?

Yes. Vehicle software updates on eligible vehicles can be performed by your servicing Dealer. As always, if you have any questions or concerns about a vehicle software update, you may contact your Dealer for assistance. 

How can I check the progress of an update?

You can check the progress of a vehicle software download or installation in the Settings menu in your center display. Look for any of the following (steps may vary by vehicle):

 

  • Settings > Updates > Updates and History

  • Settings > System > Vehicle Software > Updates.

  • Settings > Software Information > System Update.

 

If the option is grayed out, the vehicle conditions might be incorrect for a vehicle software update to occur. You may need to drive the vehicle around to improve the battery condition, turn off your auto-stop feature if your vehicle has it or charge the battery. See the Frequently Asked Questions page on onStar.com for other troubleshooting tips.

What do I do if I receive an “error” message during the download or installation?

Most vehicle software update situations will resolve on their own through natural use of your vehicle. For example, a message about a download or connection error may happen in situations where your vehicle has limited cellular connectivity. In that case, the situation will be resolved once your vehicle is moved into an area with better cellular connectivity. If your error does not automatically resolve after a few drive cycles, you should contact your Dealer for assistance.

Can I connect my vehicle to another Wi-Fi® hotspot (such as my home Wi-Fi® or mobile phone) to get vehicle software updates?

Yes, a secure Wi-Fi® connection (such as a mobile device hotspot, home network or public network) can be used. Data rates may apply. You can also use the vehicle’s built-in data connection, if equipped. To be eligible for vehicle software updates for your vehicle, including automatic Super Cruise map updates (if equipped), you must have reviewed the OnStar Privacy Statement and reviewed and accepted both the OnStar User Terms and OnStar Services consent for the vehicle.

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Need more help?

Submit a support request to get answers to your vehicle questions about over-the-air software updates, driving and safety features, Wi-Fi issues and more.

For information specific to your vehicle, please refer to your Owner’s Manual.