GM releases mobile app that unlocks your car, honks

Owners of 2011 Chevrolet cars are in for a treat. Drivers can now access their vehicle information and OnStar services right from their smart phones.

The myChevrolet and OnStar MyLink applications, available as free downloads, provide drivers with connectivity to their vehicles from their Android or Apple iPhone device.

myChevrolet integrates with the OnStar MyLink app to access exclusive OnStar technologies. Through OnStar’s unique connection to the vehicle, owners can send remote vehicle commands such as unlocking or locking the doors, and starting the engine, perfect for those in cooler climates.

In addition, owners can assess the health of their vehicle by accessing key diagnostic information, including fuel tank level and range, remaining oil life, current and recommended tire pressure and lifetime average miles per gallon. The diagnostic information is current as of the last vehicle start, giving OnStar subscribers an up-to-date health report of their vehicle anytime they need it.

“This is a great example of how we are focusing on smart technologies that address customers’ needs,” said Chris Perry, vice president, Chevrolet marketing. “With myChevrolet and Onstar MyLink apps, customers can search their owners’ manual, find their parking spot, and even unlock their car – right from their phone.”

And no need to worry about where you parked the car. The location-based services include a parking reminder that allows drivers to save their parking location to a GPS-enabled map, set a timer to track how much time they have on the parking meter, and even add a note or photo with details about their parking location. If they return to a flat tire, the driver can use the app to request roadside assistance or to locate the closest Chevrolet dealership and schedule a service appointment.

Vehicle-specific information is accessible after scanning the vehicle identification number using the smart-phone camera. These features include searchable content for the most-commonly accessed information in the owner’s manual, such as directions saving radio presets. The app also provides explanations of warning lights and indicators on the vehicle instrument panel at the touch of a button.

We’re excited to see how this takes off and if we’ll see more car manufacturers developing similar apps.