Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Scan Tool Data Definitions
- 8-Digit GM Part Number
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This displays the part number for the vehicle communication interface mode (VCIM).
- Component Serial Number 13-16
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This is the third partition of the serial number.
- Date
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This is the date as synchronized with global positioning system (GPS) satellites.
- Electronic Serial Number
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This is the electronic serial number stored in the VCIM which is used by the OnStar® Call Center.
- GPS Signal
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This displays the status of a received GPS signal.
- Julian Date of Build
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This displays the day of the year the module was built.
- Module ID
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This displays the version of OnStar® which the vehicle is equipped with.
- Signal Strength
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This displays a calculated value for cellular reception signal strength. A higher number indicates a stronger signal.
- Signal Type
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This displays whether the Generation 6 OnStar® VCIM is currently operating in a digital or analog market.
- Software ID
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This displays the 3-digit number of the software version used on the OnStar® VCIM.
- Time
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This displays the time as synchronized with GPS Satellites.
- Transceiver ID
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This displays the ID number of the cellular tower that the OnStar® VCIM is using for cellular signal.
- VCI Module Station ID
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This is the station identification number stored in the VCIM which is used by the OnStar® Call Center.
- Year Module Build
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This displays the year the module was built.
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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.