RALEIGH, N.C. — The OnStar system uses satellite technology to give drivers directions or send them help, but police used the technology to stop a car theft and chase.

Police said Ronald Lee Sanders, of Garner, took a Buick Rendezvous from Al Smith Buick in Raleigh. When the theft occurred, sales manager Herman Bullock used his cell phone and told a sales representative to call OnStar, which provides a global positioning system.

"[We] let them know my car has been stolen, and that took within minutes," Bullock said.

Sanders led authorities on a car chase, which took them on westbound Interstate 40. Police said one of the main reasons the chase ended quickly was that officers knew exactly where the stolen SUV was every step of the way.

An OnStar representative said the company gets several calls a day regarding cars that have been stolen. Police said the distinctive OnStar antennas are actually a deterrent to some car thieves.

Sanders remains in jail. He is charged with careless driving and possession of stolen property. He is scheduled to appear in court again next month.