The vehicle communication interface module (VCIM) is a 3-watt cellular device that allows the user to communicate data and voice signals over the national cellular network. It is powered by a fused, battery positive, voltage circuit connected through the vehicle wiring to the 3-button assembly and the radio, and attached by means of coax cables to the cellular and navigation antennas. Ground for the module is accomplished by means of dedicated circuits that are routed with body wiring systems to chassis ground points. The module houses 2 modems, one to process global positioning system (GPS) data, and the other for cellular information. Satellites orbiting earth are constantly transmitting signals of their current location, from which the OnStar® system is able to pinpoint its own location. The navigation antenna receives these GPS signals and provides the data to the VCIM to be processed. The VCIM communicates with the rest of the vehicle over the class 2 or GMLAN serial data bus, depending upon the serial data architecture of the vehicle. The ignition state is determined by the VCIM through class 2 or GMLAN messaging. The module also has the capability of commanding the horn, initiating door lock/unlock and operating the exterior lamps using the serial data circuits. When an OnStar® keypress is made, a serial data message is sent to the audio system to mute all radio functions and transmit OnStar® originated audio. After the audio system is muted, the OnStar® signals are transmitted to the audio system on the cellular telephone voice signal circuit, and returned to the module on the cellular telephone voice low reference circuit. The cellular modem connects the OnStar® system to the cellular carriers communication system by interacting with the national cellular infrastructure. The module sends and receives all cellular communications over the cellular antenna and cellular antenna coax.

The customer concern may have been due to a lack of cellular service in a given area. A failure in the National Cellular Network infrastructure that has since been corrected.

Schematic Reference

OnStar Schematics

Connector End View Reference

Entertainment/Communication Connector End Views

Description and Operation

OnStar Description and Operation

Electrical Information Reference

Scan Tool Reference

Scan Tool Data List

Important: It is necessary to inform the OnStar® Call Center advisor that this call is for vehicle diagnostic purposes.

1. Observe that the horn, lights, and the doors locks on the vehicle operate properly.

⇒	If the applicable system does not operate properly, go to Diagnostic Starting Point - Horns , Diagnostic Starting Point - Lighting Systems , or Diagnostic Starting Point - Vehicle Access respectively.

2. Contact the OnStar® Call Center by pressing the blue OnStar® button. Verify with the OnStar® advisor that all of the remote functions (door locks, lights, or horn) work.

⇒	If the remote functions do not work, use the scan tool to access the STID and ESN and contact the General Motors Technical Assistance Center

Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification after completing the diagnostic procedure.

Cellular Communications/Digital Radio Antenna Replacement