Knowledge Base Article

OnStar Services Help: Vehicle Diagnostics

What are Vehicle Diagnostics?

Vehicle Diagnostics deliver vehicle health updates and reassurance while you’re out on the road. Including an easy-to-read monthly diagnostics report, Dealer Maintenance Notification, and real-time Diagnostic Alerts and Proactive Alerts, Vehicle Diagnostics provide you with peace of mind for the road ahead.

What are Diagnostic Alerts?

Running a check on your engine, transmission, antilock brakes and other key systems helps assure you that your car is being properly maintained and is in top condition. With Diagnostic Alerts, you can set your preferences to receive a monthly diagnostic report by email or be notified of your vehicle’s condition in real time by email and text, if you have a paid plan. Your car is self-diagnosing, so you can enjoy the experience of driving.

What is a Proactive Alert?

A Proactive Alert* is an alert sent to the OnStar Member when data from vehicle systems predict potential issues with key vehicle components, including the battery, fuel pump, fuel pressure sensor and starter motor. This service is available on a limited number of models.

What is the difference between a Diagnostic Alert and a Proactive Alert?

Diagnostic Alerts are alerts based on current or existing conditions with the vehicle. Proactive Alerts use data from vehicle systems to predict potential issues.

How do I enroll in Diagnostic or Proactive Alerts?

You can choose to enroll in alerts delivered to your email address on file, or if you have a paid plan, real-time reports and alerts via Owner Center or through an OnStar Advisor, either by email or text message. Message and data rates may apply. Diagnostic and Proactive Alerts are available with OnStar Basics, while on-demand diagnostics are available only to Members with paid service plans.

How do I perform a diagnostic check on my vehicle?

Just push the blue OnStar button. An Advisor can run a diagnostics check and tell you if there is a maintenance issue that requires your attention.

Where will I receive a report?

You can choose to receive your report in a monthly email or, if you have a paid plan, in real time by contacting an Advisor. If you choose to have your report mailed to you, be sure to add vehiclediagnostics@onstar.com to your address book so your diagnostics report won’t be blocked by your spam filter.

How do I update my email address on file?

If you need to change your email address, contact OnStar at 1.888.4ONSTAR (1.888.466.7827) and press "2" to update personal information. Please provide the Advisor with your PIN and ask to update your email address. You can also push the blue OnStar button in your vehicle and ask an Advisor to update your email address. Either way, it only takes a few minutes. 

Can I send a report to multiple addresses?

Yes, we can send a Diagnostics Report to multiple email addresses. If your vehicle is used by other drivers, you can ensure everyone is up-to-date on your vehicle's health. To add email addresses to your account, call an OnStar Advisor at 1.888.4ONSTAR (1.888.466.7827). 

Updated 7 months ago
Version 4.0

2 Comments

  • Jetblack's avatar
    Jetblack
    New Contributor

    Had a diagnosis test 2 times today the first shows an emissions problem, and my engine light on I was losing power in my car would stop or stall. Ran a second one on my returning trip (engine light) was off after 2 days on. Onstar sent both reports to email. Second one hrs later and all showed no problems. Stalling and no power is a problem and what power I had was less than 21 mph or on the side of the road. 

  • Our team regrets to learn that you've been encountering emissions, stalling, and power concerns with the GM vehicle that you love and depend on, @Jetblack. We take comments such as these very seriously and would appreciate the opportunity to learn more about this situation and further assess how we may best be able to assist. With your safety being our top priority, please send us a private message to OnStar_Support with more details at your earliest convenience. You only need to select the envelope icon at the top of your screen to begin drafting this message. We hope to hear from you again very soon.