GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

OnStar Reconfiguration Without TIS 2 Web Gen.3 and prior

OnStar® Module Reprogramming

Important: Follow the instruction set for the part that you are replacing. Both the Vehicle Interface Unit (VIU) and Vehicle Communication Unit (VCU) have a specific set of unique numbers that tie the module to the vehicle it resides in. These numbers, the 10 digit Station Identification and 11 digit Electronic Serial Number, are used by the National Cellular Network and OnStar to identify the specific vehicle. Because these numbers are tied to the Vehicle Identification Number of the vehicle, these parts should NOT be exchanged with those of another vehicle. Failure to perform these steps will prevent the OnStar® features from functioning and will result in a customer return for repair.

Vehicle Interface Unit (VIU)

  1. Record the 10 digit Station I.D. (STID) number from the label on the new module.
  2. Install the new VIU.
  3. After replacement, press and hold the whtie "Dot" button until the OnStar status LED turns from green, to red, and then back to green.
  4. Install a scan tool. Use the I.D. Information menu to access the new STID.
  5. Move the vehicle to an open area that is away from tall buildings, and with a clear view of unobstructed sky. Allow the vehicle to run for 10 minutes.
  6. Press the blue OnStar button to connect to the OnStar Call Center. Tell the advisor that this vehicle has received a new VIU and ask them to perform the following:
  7. • Add the new STID to update the customer's account.
    • Activate the OnStar Personal Calling feature if it is available in the area.
    • Perform a full reconfiguration on the vehicle.
  8. The OnStar® Advisor will reconfigure the vehicle with you. Once the advisor completes the reconfiguration, you can end the call. Follow any additional instructions given by the Advisor.
  9. The old VIU must be returned for core credit with the address label included in the original box. Failure to return core will result in a debit.

Vehicle Communication Unit (VCU)

  1. Record the 11 digit Electronic Serial Number (ESN) number from the label on the new module.
  2. Install the new VCU.
  3. After replacement, press and hold the whtie "Dot" button until the OnStar status LED turns from green, to red, and then back to green.
  4. Install a scan tool. Use the I.D. Information menu to access the new ESN.
  5. Move the vehicle to an open area that is away from tall buildings, and with a clear view of unobstructed sky. Allow the vehicle to run for 10 minutes.
  6. Press the blue OnStar button to connect to the OnStar Call Center. Tell the advisor that this vehicle has received a new VCU and ask them to perform the following:
  7. • Add the new ESN to update the customer's account.
    • Activate the OnStar Personal Calling feature if it is available in the area.
    • Perform a full reconfiguration on the vehicle.
  8. The OnStar® Advisor will reconfigure the vehicle with you. Once the advisor completes the reconfiguration, you can end the call. Follow any additional instructions given by the Advisor.
  9. The old VCU must be returned for core credit with the address label included in the original box. Failure to return core will result in a debit.