I know this is a very old post but i just bought a used ‘23 Sierra Denali and like yours, no light, no reply pushing the button and when i call Onstar they say go to the dealer. Also like you, i have no desire to waste time at the dealer. In my other GM vehicles Onstar always comes on when you push the button whether you have an active account or not. They just won’t help you unless you pay them.
Thanks