Like the rest of the General Motors lineup, modern Buick vehicles offer several advanced connectivity features, many of which are only accessible through GM’s OnStar subscription platform. Chief among these is Google Maps, which is available as part of Google built-in functionality. However, in order to continue using Google Maps after the initial complementary period, owners will need an active OnStar subscription. As such, we’re providing the following breakdown of OnStar costs and plans, highlighting what’s needed to keep Google Maps.
For the 2024 model year, Buick vehicles are equipped as standard with three years of the OnStar Remote Access Plan. This plan unlocks remote control features through the myBuick mobile app, but does not include emergency or security services. However, vehicles specced in the Avenir trim include a three-year OnStar Premium Plan, which bundles together a broader suite of services, including the OnStar Guardian app, in-vehicle app connectivity, Wi-Fi Hotspot data, and full access to the Remote Access Plan, as well as Automatic Crash Response.
For the 2025 model year, Buick introduced OnStar Basics as a standard offering for eight years. This plan includes essential features like remote commands, built-in navigation, voice assistance, and Automatic Crash Response. Additionally, units of the 2025 Buick Enclave equipped with the optional Super Cruise feature also include a three-year OnStar Digital Services package, which provides access to in-vehicle apps, Wi-Fi, and other connected services​.
However, once the complimentary periods expire, Buick owners must purchase an OnStar subscription to continue accessing connected features. The current starting rate is $14.99 per month for the Remote Access Plan, which enables the use of the vehicle’s native Google Maps navigation system. Higher-tier plans, like the Premium Plan, provide additional safety and security features, but come at a higher cost, starting at $52.99 per month​.
Check out the table below for a more thorough breakdown of OnStar plans and pricing, including related features:
OnStar Plans | Premium | Preferred Plus Wi-Fi | Essentials | Preferred | Safety & Security | Connected Vehicle | App Access | Remote Access |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
$52.99/month | $46.99/month | $42.99/month | $31.99/month | $32.99/month | $26.99/month | $14.99/month | $14.99/month | |
Automatic Crash Response | X | X | X | X | X | - | - | - |
Emergency Services | X | X | X | X | X | - | - | - |
Crisis Assist | X | X | X | X | X | - | - | - |
Roadside Assistance | X | X | X | X | X | - | - | - |
Stolen Vehicle Assistance | X | X | X | X | X | - | - | - |
Connected Navigation | X | X | - | X | - | X | X | - |
Turn-By-Turn Navigation | X | X | X | X | X | - | - | - |
OnStar Guardian App ($15/month) | X | X | X | X | X | + | + | + |
Remote Key Fob | X | - | X | - | - | X | - | X |
Mobile Map App | X | - | X | - | - | X | X | X |
Remote Personalization | X | - | X | - | - | X | X | X |
On-Demand Diagnostics | X | - | X | - | - | X | X | - |
HD Streaming (if properly equipped) | X | X | - | - | - | X | - | - |
Voice Assistant (Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa) | X | X | - | X | - | X | X | - |
Unlimited In-Vehicle Data ($25/month) | X | X | + | + | + | X | + | + |
In-Vehicle Apps | X | X | - | X | - | X | X | - |
Super Cruise if equipped ($25/month) | + | + | + | + | + | + | + | + |
- X = included
- + = add-on option
- – = not available
Comments
I never understood paying to update your maps. How often is a new road constructed that you won’t know about? Next to never. Yes, when planning a route for a trip you’d want the most up to date map information but then again everyone has a smart phone with some sort of map app.
I agree if you can still use the map functionality if you don’t pay, just not get map updates. But the article seems to indicate the entire function will be lost.
Right. The snafu here is that Google Built in contains native Android Auto so you can’t use AA (or probably ACP) without paying the subscription. So, you must not link the system to your phone for directions. Phones go back on the windshield using Google Maps. Such progress. One step forward, 4 back.
Forget maps. You can pay OnStar $26.99/month and not get emergency services or automatic crash response? What a world.
So, you picture an Envista that doesn’t even have Google Built-In. Great. OnStar is a TOTAL ripoff that GM fails to understand. For several years they tried to get non-GM owners to buy in and that fell flat on its face. Others offer the same for no charge, even Ford. Those prices are beyond insane.
Everyone will start using their using their phones with suction cups mounts again to avoid the subscription costs.
You’ll own nothing and be happy. Just let the Blackrocks of the world own everything that you are forced to rent/lease/subscribe to them for.
If it was up to the WEF you wouldn’t own your personal freedoms either. Remember. They said “China is the model the world should follow.”
Ha, ha, ha…
It can also cost you a one time fee of $8 for a phone holster on Amazon. This would be the route I would take. Or go with a manufacturer that won’t charge for it.
Oh. And that one time $8 fee covers unlimited updates and also allows you to use Waze. So that’s ok. The OnStar buttons in my Cadillac are just an overhead console decoration right now and they will remain that way as long as I own the vehicle.
The more electronic surveillance trash I can get out of my car the better. I have a ’01 Park Ave that does all that I need. OnStar has long since expired, and I am still alive. (and, they can’t use my car to find me).
Ha ha ha ha…..
Who you hidin’ from??
Come on man. I did not like GMs decisions to stop production of the Malibu Premier or not offering an Engine version of the fine car. This from a lifelong GM owner and a 67 SS 396 Chevelle a 72 Monta Carlo a 96 El Dorado, several Silverados and Sierra and Malubu Premier and more not mentioned.
They might as well start charging monthly to use of the heated seats, just dont ask BMW.