General Information

General Information

Telematics is an in-vehicle communication system that uses cellular and Global Positioning System (GPS) technologies to provide the customer with safety, security and convenience services.

GPS is a "constellation" of 24 satellites that orbit the earth and constantly broadcast radio signals. The Telematics/Telephone Control Module receives GPS data, decodes it, and transmits the vehicle's location to the service provider's call center via the national cellular network.

Telematics services for Volkswagen customers are provided by OnStar (R) via a dedicated call center. Service plans may provide route directions and concierge services as well as emergency or vehicle repair services.

Utilization of available Telematics services/features take place via customer's voice control.

Upon customer request, the Volkswagen Telematics by OnStar (R) call center can remotely perform or activate the following vehicle functions:
- Lock vehicle
- Unlock vehicle
- Activate Hazard Lights
- Activate horn

During events where the Airbag Control Module processes a crash signal, the vehicle hazard lights are activated and the doors are unlocked via the respective door control modules. In addition, the telematics system automatically places an emergency call to the OnStar (R) call center.

Telematics hardware includes the driver operated telematics control head (which contains the OnStar (R) control buttons and telematics indicator lamp), microphone, roof mounted GPS/Cellular antenna and Telematics/Telephone Control Module (with supporting software) and related wiring.

All telematics components are factory installed/integrated into the vehicle electrical system.

Before troubleshooting or servicing, technicians must be familiar with all telematics functions, operating specifics and the particular service plan to which the customer subscribes.

Refer to "Volkswagen Telematics by OnStar (R)" Self Study Program (SSP) and "Volkswagen Telematics by OnStar (R) Owner's Manual and/or OnStar (R) "Quick Reference Guide" to become familiar with applicable features and functions.

Telematics system/component overview.