How to Disable Onstar in an Escalade
by Kenneth W. Michael WillsIf you own a Cadillac Escalade equipped with OnStar but no longer subscribe to the service, you may want to disable the system. If you do not, Cadillac can still track your movements and may use such information for market research purposes or could even turn over gathered information to third parties. Keep in mind that if you disable OnStar, your "voice memo" and "voice navigation" features will also cease to function.
Step 1
Open the back hatch on your Cadillac Escalade and remove the cover over the floor space at the center of the back storage space.
Step 2
Take off the sill plate beneath the cover, using a Phillips screwdriver to unscrew the cargo net attached. Pull up on the sill plate to remove it.
Step 3
Pull the right side of the right pane toward the front of the vehicle, then back towards the middle of the vehicle to access the OnStar system. You will not need to remove the side pane; just get it out of the way.
Step 4
Disconnect the three connectors you see going into the OnStar unit at the front. Accomplish this by simply pulling down and out to remove the connectors.
Step 5
Snap the right side pane back into place, replace the sill cover, screw back in the cargo nets and replace the floor cover to complete the task.
References
Tips
- If you want to avoid of all this, simply remove the fuse for the OnStar system. If the system does not get power, it will not work. Refer to your users manual to locate the fuse box, open the box, look at the diagram to locate the fuse, then use the tool inside to remove the fuse.
Things You'll Need
- Phillips screwdriver
Warnings
- Do not attempt cutting wires to the OnStar system as this might mess up the connections with other components in the vehicle.
Writer Bio
Kenneth W. Michael Wills is a writer on culture, society and business. With more than 15 years of experience in sales, public relations and written communications, Wills' passion is delighting audiences with invigorating perspectives and refreshing ideas. He has ghostwritten articles on a diverse range of topics for corporate websites and composed proposals for organizations seeking growth opportunities.