Forum Discussion
Installed used telematics control module on my refreshed 2022 silverado
Dealership stated TCM was back ordered with no date available (6 months ago). Another dealership gave me a list of part numbers that were replacing my original TCM part #. Found one from 2024 silverado on Ebay. I installed it and took to dealer to program with my truck. Ck engine light went out and I could see where I was on the downloaded map. I called onstar to activate wifi and I'm told I can't activate service because the VIN on the TCM and my truck don't match. You figure it would be easy to do a switch, but that would make sense. I figure it's like buying a used phone and finding out it's locked by the service provider. This would resolve back order issues and get them some revenue coming in. Waiting on a call back from onstar to see what they say.
4 Replies
- ELSarmNew Contributor
"Right to Repair" Laws: Various states have passed laws that make it easier for consumers to repair their own electronics (including cell phones) rather than being forced to replace the entire device.
As of June 2025, Texas has enacted a "Right to Repair" law (HB 2963) requiring manufacturers of consumer electronics valued over $50 to provide diagnostic, maintenance, and repair information, parts, and tools to owners and independent repair shops. This bipartisan law aims to reduce e-waste and lower repair costs, though it does not cover home appliances.
- Advisor_BrendanModerator
We appreciate your outreach and regret to hear of this situation surrounding concerns with the TCM for your Silverado @ELSarm. Unanticipated concerns are never easy and we can recognize that. For the best assistance, we encourage you to continue working closely with any owning case agent you have through your existing contacts to OnStar. They will remain in the prime position to provide you with available information and help surrounding your concerns. We are happy to investigate the status of a case and situation, looking to offer support wherever we may be able to. To do so, send us a private message to OnStar_Support with more details, including your full name, mileage, email, phone and your VIN or OnStar account number. Just select the envelope at the top right of your screen to start. By sending us a message, you consent to the information you provide being monitored and recorded by GM or those acting on GM’s behalf, subject to the GM Privacy Statement: https://www.gm.com/privacy-statement.
- ELSarmNew Contributor
Well, tried to do it the correct way. Onstar said the VIN is married to the module and unable to reprogram the module with MY vin. It was "uncompatible". Used module kept showing up for a newer year model and they would not allow me to activate. So since the world turns with lies, I pressed the "Green" button next to the mirror and asked for activation. When the representative stated if I was calling to activate for a (newer year) silverado I said yes. Service was activated, my app showed a different color/year truck, but I was still able to lock and unlock the truck. Fuel and range showed on app. I was able to start with app as well. All works, but it doesn't show the correct vin/year/color. Wifi should work after 24 hours. I'm guessing it will work since everything else is. If it doesn't I'll update the forum. FYI, Cheaper to go used than new. I've shown you the easy way. You're welcome.
- Advisor_SaraModerator
We appreciate you sharing this experience. Our team has documented your feedback for continuous improvement of our services for the future. If you would like us to look further into your mobile app or Wi-Fi concerns in your Silverado, please do not hesitate to private message OnStar_Support with additional details. Just select the envelope icon at the top right of your screen to get started. We are always here and willing to help!