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TTY FOR ONSTAR

Difficulty Level: Novice | Time Required: 10 Minutes | Tools Required: None | Related Parts, Products, Services or Technology: None

A TTY (Text Telephone) is a special device that lets drivers with hearing or speech challenges communicate using text instead of talking and listening. OnStar®^† provides access to certain services via TTY, allowing you to communicate with Advisors or access emergency services through text. Depending on your service plan and how your vehicle is equipped, you can use TTY for OnStar Advisor calls and when utilizing emergency services. You’ll have 24/7 connectivity to a dedicated TTY Advisor.

HOW TO USE TTY FOR ONSTAR

OnStar offers two ways to get OnStar TTY services via text, depending on the infotainment^† system in your vehicle:

TTY is embedded in select GM infotainment systems and can be turned on in the system’s settings app
Regardless of your infotainment system, you can use the OnStar Guardian™®^† app on your mobile phone to access certain emergency services via TTY (requires eligible service plan)

GETTING STARTED: EMBEDDED TTY

If TTY is embedded in your infotainment system, it has to be enabled in order for you to begin using it. From that point on, the TTY text will be shown on your center display during Advisor calls. On most vehicles, here’s how you can enable TTY (see below for special instructions for vehicles equipped with Google built-in compatibility):

Turn your vehicle on and keep it in PARK.
On the center display Home screen, tap the settings icon.
Select “System.”
Scroll down and select “TTY Mode.”
Finally, select the radio button.

MAKING CALLS WITH TTY

Once you’ve enabled TTY on your infotainment system, you can begin communicating with OnStar Advisors.

Here's how it works:

Your vehicle should be in PARK to place a TTY call.
To contact an OnStar Advisor, press the blue OnStar button in your vehicle. Your call will be transmitted to a specially trained TTY Advisor.
Use the keypad on your center display to type in your message, then tap End. Lines of text on the screen allow you to read the conversation.
You can tap Hearing Mode to change to a voice conversation.
When your call is complete, tap End Call.

For safety reasons, some services are not available when the vehicle is moving.

USING TTY IN AN EMERGENCY

If you have an eligible service plan, you can use TTY services in an emergency situation.

In an emergency, press the red Emergency button to reach a dedicated TTY Advisor. The Advisor will be able to locate your vehicle and find out what type of assistance you need (either by voice or by TTY text). If you're in a crash, your vehicle's built-in sensors can automatically alert an Advisor. Even if you can't answer, the Advisor can contact nearby emergency service providers who can dispatch appropriate medical responders.

For your security, please don't include personal info such as phone number, address or credit card details.

Q&As

HOW CAN I CONTACT ONSTAR TTY?

You can call the OnStar toll-free TTY number at 1.877.248.2080 or email TTY@onstar.com.