OnStar One or More Buttons Inoperative

1999 GMC Forward Control 5.7 R, AutomaticSECTION OnStar One or More Buttons Inoperative
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Pontiac Aztek and 2004 Buick Rendezvous. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
OnStar One or More Buttons Inoperative

Step Action Value(s) Yes No
Schematic Reference: OnStar Schematics 
Connector End View Reference: Cellular Communication Connector End Views 
1 Did you perform the Cellular Communication Diagnostic System Check? - Go to Step 2  Go to Diagnostic System Check - Cellular Communication 
2
IMPORTANT: Contact the OnStar® Call Center first before pressing the emergency button in order to notify them of the test.
  1. Turn ON the ignition, with the engine OFF.
  2. Press each OnStar® button one at a time.
Are all buttons inoperative?
- Go to Step 4  Go to Step 3 
3 Are any buttons intermittent or inoperative? - Go to Step 7  Go to Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections in Wiring Systems
4
  1. Turn OFF the ignition.
  2. Disconnect the OnStar® button assembly.
  3. Turn ON the ignition, with the engine OFF.
  4. Measure the voltage from the Keypad Supply Voltage circuit to a good ground.
Does the voltage measure greater than the specified value?
9 V Go to Step 6  Go to Step 5 
5 Test the Keypad Supply Voltage circuit for an open or short. Refer to Circuit Testing and Wiring Repairs in Wiring Systems.
Did you find and correct the condition?
- Go to Step 11  Go to Step 8 
6 Test the Keypad Signal circuit for an open or short. Refer to Circuit Testing and Wiring Repairs in Wiring Systems.
Did you find and correct the condition?
- Go to Step 11  Go to Step 9 
7 Inspect for poor connections at the harness connector of the OnStar® button assembly. Refer to Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections and Connector Repairs in Wiring Systems.
Did you find and correct the condition?
- Go to Step 11  Go to Step 9 
8 Inspect for poor connections at the harness connector of the VCIM. Refer to Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections and Connector Repairs in Wiring Systems.
Did you find and correct the condition?
- Go to Step 11  Go to Step 10 
9 Replace the OnStar® button assembly. Refer to OnStar Button Assembly Replacement  in Stationary Windows.
Did you complete the replacement?
- Go to Step 11  -
10
IMPORTANT: Perform the OnStar® setup procedure.
Replace the Communication Interface Module. Refer to Communication Interface Module Replacement .Did you complete the replacement?
- Go to Step 11  -
11 Operate the system in order to verify the repair.
Did you correct the condition?
- System OK Go to Step 2 
RENDER: 1.0x

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.