Abstract: A method of updating a preferred roaming list (PRL) onboard a vehicle that wirelessly communicates with a call center and with a communications center over a wireless network. A communication link is established between the vehicle and the call center. A onboard PRL version number is transmitted from the vehicle to the call center where it is compared to a PRL version number stored at the call center. When the call center PRL version number differs from the onboard PRL version number, a PRL update flag is set at the vehicle. Thereafter, a communication link between the vehicle and the communication center is established. An updated PRL is downloaded from the communication center to the vehicle and stored therein, and the PRL update flag is then cleared.

Abstract: A system and method for activating an inactive telematics unit provides a group of communications functions to the telematics unit. Initially, a call is received at a call center from a user of the telematics unit, through which subscriber information is obtained. An account data set is created at the call center based on the subscriber information and the call center advisor sets an activation trigger in the telematics unit. When the trigger condition occurs, the telematics unit places a VDU call to the call center. The call center then automatically activates and configures the telematics unit via the VDU call to provide the group of one or more communications functions.

Abstract: A method of updating a preferred roaming list (PRL) onboard a vehicle that wirelessly communicates with a call center and with a communications center over a wireless network. A communication link is established between the vehicle and the call center. A onboard PRL version number is transmitted from the vehicle to the call center where it is compared to a PRL version number stored at the call center. When the call center PRL version number differs from the onboard PRL version number, a PRL update flag is set at the vehicle. Thereafter, a communication link between the vehicle and the communication center is established. An updated PRL is downloaded from the communication center to the vehicle and stored therein, and the PRL update flag is then cleared.