Vehicle theft is rising, with over 1 million vehicles stolen in the U.S. in 2023 alone. That’s one car stolen every 3 minutes—a staggering reality. The average loss per stolen vehicle? $8,872. If you don’t have a stolen vehicle recovery system, you’re rolling the dice every time you park. Let’s dive into Onstar itself and Onstar alternatives.
OnStar is a well-known name in vehicle security, but it’s not your only option. LoJack, Viper SmartStart, and other alternatives offer compelling features that may better suit your needs. This guide will break down the best OnStar alternatives and help you choose the most effective way to keep your car out of thieves’ hands.
What Is OnStar and How Does It Work?
OnStar is a subscription-based vehicle security system that offers:
✅ Stolen Vehicle Assistance – Helps police locate your car using GPS.
✅ Remote Ignition Block – Stops the engine from restarting after theft.
✅ Automatic Crash Response – Alerts emergency services after a crash.
✅ Turn-by-Turn Navigation – Real-time GPS assistance.
✅ Roadside Assistance – Sends help for flat tires, dead batteries, etc.
✅ Remote Door Unlock – Unlock your car from anywhere.
✅ Wi-Fi Hotspot – Provides in-car internet for passengers.
OnStar is powerful but expensive, with plans starting at $29.99/month or $359/year. Plus, it requires an active subscription to access theft recovery features.
If you’re looking for a one-time cost, no monthly fees, and a higher theft recovery rate, check out the alternatives below.
Best OnStar Alternatives for Theft Prevention
Comparing OnStar to LoJack, Viper, and Other Top Competitors
| Feature | OnStar | LoJack | Viper SmartStart | BMW Remote Services | Mercedes-Benz mbrace |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tracking Technology | GPS & Cellular | GPS & Cellular | GPS & Cellular | GPS | GPS & Cellular |
| Stolen Vehicle Tracking | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes (98% recovery rate) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Remote Start | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Remote Lock/Unlock | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Vehicle Diagnostics | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Automatic Crash Response | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Roadside Assistance | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Geofencing Alerts | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Hidden Device | ❌ No | ✅ Yes (Undetectable) | ❌ No | ❌ No | ❌ No |
| Law Enforcement Integration | ❌ No | ✅ Yes (Direct police integration) | ❌ No | ❌ No | ❌ No |
| Pricing | 💰 $29.99/month ($359/year) | 💰 One-time $895 (3 years) | 💰 $319.99 (device) | 💰 $10/month | 💰 $280/year |
Why LoJack Is the Best OnStar Alternative
If your main concern is stolen vehicle recovery, LoJack is the clear winner. Here’s why:
🚓 98% Recovery Rate – LoJack’s success rate is nearly double the national average (56.4%).
🚔 Direct Law Enforcement Integration – Police can track LoJack signals instantly.
🔒 Hidden Device – Unlike OnStar, thieves can’t disable LoJack because they can’t find it.
📡 Works in Garages & Tunnels – OnStar’s GPS can be blocked, but LoJack’s radio signal penetrates walls.
💵 One-Time Payment – No subscriptions, no monthly fees.
If you want to maximize your chances of getting your car back, LoJack is your best bet.
How to get LoJack
- Purchase a LoJack device from the VG Motors online store.
- Schedule a time and place for us to complete the installation by a certified technician (complimentary service included).
- You feel good that your vehicle is connected and protected by the #1 stolen vehicle recovery brand.
Reach out to us at [email protected] or call us at (850) 407-3017 and we can answer any questions you may have.
LoJack Pricing Made Simple.
VG Motors eliminates any confusion and provides straightforward pricing on the LoJack devices we sell.
- LoJack Device + 3 Year Service Term – $895 (installation included)
- LoJack Device + 5 Year Service Term – $1,100 (installation included)
- LoJack Device + 7 Year Service Term – $1,250 (installation included)
Contact us at [email protected] or call us at (850) 407-3017.
How LoJack Works | Explained in 30 Seconds
How Does the LoJack Installation Process Work?
LoJack does not want to openly communicate the exact steps and location where the LoJack device can be installed as it would put LoJack customers at a higher potential risk from criminals. What you need to know is that a certified LoJack technician needs to conduct the installation. The whole process should take less than 1 hour before your device is installed and ready to be connected to your smartphone on the LoJack app. As your LoJack dealer, VG Motors can help install LoJack in your vehicle without you ever needing to leave your driveway.
How Does the $5k Recovery Guarantee Work?
LoJack has been in the stolen vehicle recovery industry for decades. With that time, they have accumulated true expertise and experience in this space. In short, they have perfected their craft. This is why vehicles with LoJack installed have a 98% recovery rate. They are so confident in their abilities that they offer up to a $5k stolen vehicle recovery guarantee if your vehicle is not retrieved within 30 days. This is a tremendous security blanket for consumers as it acts as an insurance policy of sorts. Typically, stolen vehicles are only covered by insurance providers if you have a comprehensive policy. With LoJack installed, you could collect reimbursement from both LoJack and your insurance provider.
Onstar Alternatives | Other Ways to Protect Your Vehicle from Theft
Even with a tracking system, thieves still try to steal cars. Layered security is the best defense.
1. Use Visible Deterrents
- Steering wheel locks – Thieves hate visible barriers.
- Brake pedal locks – Make it impossible to drive away.
- Window etching – Mark VIN numbers on windows to discourage resale.
2. Install Immobilization Devices
- Kill switches – Prevents thieves from starting your car.
- Fuel cutoff systems – Stops fuel from reaching the engine.
3. Secure Your Key Fob
- Use a Faraday pouch – Blocks signal cloning.
- Disable keyless entry at night – Stops relay attacks.
4. Park in Safe Locations
Angle your wheels – Makes towing harder.
Well-lit areas – Darkness = easy targets.
Garage parking – Out of sight, out of mind.
Onstar Alternatives Conclusion
At VG Motors, we believe in empowering Americans to protect themselves and their cars, trucks, SUVs, and equipment. If you have any questions or concerns, give us a call at (850) 407-3017 or email us at [email protected]. We will be happy to walk you through the process and help you take pro-active action to combat the soaring crime rates in the United States. As your dedicated LoJack dealer, VG Motors has got your back. You aren’t alone! Stay safe. Stay connected. And, above all, stay protected.
