Telematics system, troubleshooting using telematics indicator lamp

WARNING: This page is about a different variant/trim than selected.

The following allows technicians to perform an initial evaluation of Telematics system operation status for troubleshooting using the OnStar ® telematics indicator lamp (and pre-recorded system messages where applicable).

This serves only as an initial evaluation only and is not meant to supersede detailed OBD program procedures carried out with VAS 5051 Vehicle Diagnostic Testing and Information System in operating mode "Guided Fault Finding".

The telematic indicator lamp LED is located in the telematic control head. LED indications are red or green, lighting continuously, blinking slowly or quickly.

Telematic system status can be determined via the LED with the ignition switched on and referenced from the following table:

LED indication	System status:
Off	No connection, no malfunction
Red - continuously	No connection, malfunction in telematics hardware
Green - continuously	After completion of self-test or when OBD program is performed
Red - blinking slowly	Establishing connection, malfunction in telematics hardware
Red - blinking quickly	Connection active, malfunction in telematics hardware
Green - blinking slowly	Establishing connection, no malfunction
Green - blinking quickly	Connection active, no malfunction

Indications, overview:

LED is off when ignition is off.
The green LED comes on after a self-check routine is performed (approx. 10- 15 seconds after ignition is switched on). Sending or receiving voice communication with the OnStar ® call center is now possible. LED remains on even in areas without cellular coverage.
The green LED slowly blinking indicates a communication request has taken place and the system is in the process of establishing a cellular connection.
The red LED indicates a malfunction in the telematics hardware was determined during the self check.

NOTE: After pressing either the OnStar ® or Emergency button, a recorded message announces: "connecting to OnStar," followed by progression tones. Normal connection time is 10 - 15 seconds. However, due to local cellular/GPS conditions, making a connection could take up to three minutes. Be patient.

Condition - telematics indicator lamp "green" plus:

message "unable to contact OnStar ® " and disconnect,
message "OnStar ® request ended",
nothing happens,
or a cellular message

indicates system cellular reception is affected. Proceed as follows:

Relocate vehicle to a more elevated or open area and repeat connection attempts. Depending on the local cellular/GPS traffic conditions, several connection attempts may be necessary (and are normal).
Shortcomings in the vehicle's cellular/GPS antenna system also affects connectivity. Check all cellular/GPS antenna connections, and perform OBD program using VAS 5051 Vehicle Diagnostic Testing and Information System in mode "Guided Fault Finding". Check for DTCs related to antenna function.
If you are still unable to connect, record the VIN and customer details and call OnStar ® Customer Care at 1-888-390-4050. Identify yourself to the advisor as an Volkswagen Technician. The advisor will verify the customer's OnStar ® account is active. Further troubleshooting assistance may be given.

Condition - telematics indicator lamp "red"

indicates system hardware (vehicle portion) is affected. Proceed as follows:

Perform OBD using VAS 5051 Vehicle Diagnostic Testing and Information System in mode "Guided Fault Finding". Check/perform:

DTC memory (function 02)
Output DTM (function 03)
Read Measuring Value Block (function 08)

NOTE: In the event any of the OnStar ® control buttons are either inadvertently or deliberately pressed for longer than 15 seconds, the OBD program assumes a button is sticking. The red status light will come on and a DTC loads in memory. Perform OBD program using VAS 5051 Vehicle Diagnostic Testing and Information System in mode "Guided Fault Finding". Check DTC memory for DTC 01526 "mechanical malfunction". Inform customers accordingly.