There are two ways to get OnStar’s information-and-safety service–built into a GM vehicle, or built into an aftermarket rear-view mirror. The latter option is known as OnStar FMV, and it brings OnStar to millions of non-GM vehicles already on the road. If you’re in a crash, OnStar will notice and automatically alert a representative to send help. If your car is stolen, a rep can assist the police in tracking it down. And if you’re lucky enough to never need those features, you can still push a button, speak to a friendly OnStar rep and get turn-by-turn driving directions downloaded to the mirror. The service isn’t cheap, but it’s extremely well-done.
Price: $199 (after instant rebate) at OnStar; service plans start at $18.95 a month