Imagine your car evolving like a smartphone, receiving free performance upgrades and even unlocking new paid features. This is no longer science fiction but a reality made possible by OnStar's vehicle software updates. Through wireless connectivity, your car can receive the latest technology, making each drive better than the last.
OnStar vehicle software updates provide owners with a convenient and efficient way to upgrade their vehicles. Using wireless connectivity, cars can receive and install the latest software, improving performance, enhancing features, or even unlocking entirely new capabilities. These updates eliminate the need for dealership visits—they can be completed right in your driveway.
Updates are pushed to the vehicle's infotainment display. Owners simply tap a button to download and install the latest software via Connected Access or any Wi-Fi network. No additional data charges apply.
Installing software updates ensures owners enjoy the best possible in-car experience. Each update is designed to enhance vehicle performance, functionality, and safety, making every drive more comfortable, convenient, and enjoyable.
Vehicle software updates fall into three categories:
- Optimizations (Free): Updates to existing features that fix bugs, improve performance, or refine the user experience. Examples include resolving audio issues.
- Enhancements (Free): New features or improvements added to existing functions. For instance, expanding the range of roads compatible with Super Cruise.
- Upgrades (Paid): Entirely new features, typically unlocked through additional services or subscriptions. Examples include purchasing advanced driver-assistance systems.
Here are some recent updates demonstrating how OnStar continuously improves vehicle performance and capabilities:
- Cadillac Escalade Power Doors: Control the opening, closing, locking, and unlocking of driver and passenger doors with a single button press.
- Dolby Atmos Immersive Audio: Experience studio-quality sound in select 2025 and 2026 Cadillac EVs and the 2026 Escalade.
- Super Cruise Road Expansion: The system now works on over 400,000 miles of compatible roads.
- GMC Hummer EV Extraction Mode: Raises the vehicle nearly 6 inches to navigate challenging terrain.
- HD Streaming: Watch shows and movies from services like Hulu directly in your car.
- Hummer EV CrabWalk Mode: Enables tighter turns in off-road conditions by allowing the rear wheels to steer at twice the angle of the front wheels.
- Preparation: Ensure the vehicle is parked safely and connected to Wi-Fi.
- Reception: The software update is sent directly to the car via over-the-air (OTA) technology.
- Download: The update automatically downloads to the infotainment display.
- Installation: Follow on-screen prompts to complete the installation.
- Installation may take up to 20 minutes.
- Once started, the process cannot be interrupted.
- The infotainment screen remains active during installation.
- No hardware changes or service center visits are required.
Vehicle software update technology allows owners to download and install software upgrades for specific components via wireless connectivity. This provides a convenient way to keep your vehicle up to date with the latest software. The feature is available on select 2017 and newer models.
Downloads and installations can be completed using the vehicle's built-in data connection or Wi-Fi. No paid data plan is required. To qualify for updates—including automatic Super Cruise map updates (if equipped)—owners must accept the Connected Vehicle Services User Terms and OnStar Privacy Statement.
Important: During installation, the vehicle will be disabled and undrivable. Once started, the process cannot be canceled. Owners may choose to "Download/Install" immediately, use the "Remind Me Later" or "Schedule" options (if available), or defer the update (it will remain available for up to 30 ignition cycles). Selecting "Download/Install" requires two confirmations: one acknowledging the estimated installation time and another stating the vehicle will be immobilized during the process.
Navigate to the "Settings" menu in the infotainment system and look for either:
- Under "System," go to the "Vehicle Software" section and select "Update."
- Choose "Software Information" and look for "System Update."
If these options appear, your vehicle supports updates. Note that rejecting the Connected Vehicle Services User Terms and OnStar Privacy Statement will disqualify the vehicle from receiving updates.
Download times vary based on file size and signal strength. The vehicle remains usable during downloads. Installation typically takes 20 minutes or less, during which the car cannot be driven.
Yes, during downloads. If the vehicle is turned off or loses connectivity, the download pauses and resumes automatically. During installation, the vehicle is immobilized. Owners are advised to park safely and avoid locking occupants inside, as door locks and windows may temporarily malfunction.