How to Take OnStar Out of a Car

OnStar, a vehicle technology subsidiary of General Motors, revolutionized the automotive industry with the introduction of its OnStar safety system. OnStar will notify authorities if your airbags deploy and pinpoint your exact location by GPS. Despite its benefits, some are weary of losing privacy with OnStar. Removing it from your vehicle will eliminate its locating feature.

Things You'll Need

• Pliers
• Socket wrench set

Instructions

1. Pop the hood and disconnect the negative battery cable. The battery cable should be disconnected any time you work with electrical components to prevent shock.

2. Open the trunk and remove the liner from the side to access the OnStar computer. Some cars have the system mounted on the driver's side; some have it mounted on the passenger's side. Remove one panel at a time to locate the computer.

3. Disconnect the three electrical modules connected to the OnStar computer. Use the socket wrench to remove the four bolts and remove the computer from the vehicle. Replace the trim panel in your trunk and reconnect the negative battery cable.

Tips & Warnings

• Disconnecting the modules from the computer will deactivate OnStar; however, removing it will allow you to recycle it or sell it.

• Removing OnStar will deactivate all of its safety features.

References

• OnStar Removal