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Scantool Alternative

Posted: Sun Feb 05, 2017 4:11 pm
by BIG_GREEK
For the VWs, the factory scantool is ODIS (Offboard Diagnostic Information System), used to be VASPC, but the alternative (cheaper) and half legit version is VCDS. It can do 99% of what the factory scantool can accomplish.

For the Fords, you have VCM and the alternative is FORSCAN, again can do 99% of what the factory scantool accomplishes.

Is there an alternative for our GM vehicles that's floating around for less than the thousands of dollars it costs for a factory tool?

Re: Scantool Alternative

Posted: Sun Feb 05, 2017 4:55 pm
by jackleg
The scanner that comes with HPTuners works well. Only scans PCM and TCM, no body or brake modules. You can read & clear codes, set up gauges/ graphs and record multible sensors during a test drive to play back later. It is bi-direcectional- can command on and off a/c clutch, fans, evap solonoid, shift solenoids, etc for testing. You don't need to use any of the "tuning credits" for the scanner.

Re: Scantool Alternative

Posted: Tue Feb 07, 2017 8:22 pm
by BIG_GREEK
I was wanting to see for going into the different modules in the car, as well as engine/transmission.

Re: Scantool Alternative

Posted: Thu Feb 23, 2017 5:38 am
by 91C02920
I am using an off-brand J2534 pass through device that I got off of Aliexpress.com for around $200 and it works well so far. I've used Tech2Win with it, and also SDS to program ECMs. Search Aliexpress for MDI to get an idea of what is available.

For a bit more, you can get a Mongoose cable from Drew Technologies. http://www.drewtech.com/mongoose/gm2.html" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

After you get your connector, you need a subscription through ACDelco Tds: https://www.acdelcotds.com/acdelco/action/subscribehome" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false; I've gotten the $55/2 day packages for SPS. If you already have Tech2Win and a profile saved, the $55 SPS package will also give you access to the Security tab to get a 30 license for Tech2Win.

OEMDTC has a few good youtube vids on using TIS, TECH2Win, and SPS
SPS:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1JjiTjucSh8
TIS Login:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c4Mc51LrGaI

Re: Scantool Alternative

Posted: Sat Feb 25, 2017 12:21 pm
by greasychevy
can you get tech2win for a fair price? i assume its subscription based?

Re: Scantool Alternative

Posted: Sat Feb 25, 2017 6:59 pm
by 91C02920
greasychevy wrote:can you get tech2win for a fair price? i assume its subscription based?

Tech2Win with a downloads is $55 for a 3 day subscription.
Check https://www.acdelcotds.com/acdelco/action/subscribehome" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

You should get a 30 day license to use Tech2Win with that.
SPS also includes the ability to renew for another 30 days, but I don't think it comes with downloads.

Re: Scantool Alternative

Posted: Sat Feb 25, 2017 8:38 pm
by Jeff M
I have used the Scan Gauge II on several cars and trucks in the past. You can display engine parameters at a time.

Re: Scantool Alternative

Posted: Sun Feb 26, 2017 9:19 am
by 91C02920
Bosch has a few good videos on using their Mastertech VCI, they make the MDI and the VCI is their version of it.
Videos here: https://www.boschdiagnostics.com/pro/videos" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
Look at the 'Mastertech VCI OEM Hardware Kit' vids.

Re: Scantool Alternative

Posted: Sat Jun 24, 2017 12:00 am
by Mooseman
Old thread revival. Just thought I'd add to it.

Another option is a Tech 2 clone available on Aliexpress for around $250USD without a case. I already had one that I used with my older trucks. It comes with the old Tis2000 software, which is good to allow you to do security related stuff and reprogramming modules up to my2008/2009. However, you don't need that or a subscription just to scan with and that's good up to 2014 which when they discontinued support for the Tech 2 and became obsolete when all vehicles went to a new communications bus.

Although I have never used it like this, the Tech 2 can also be used as a pass-through using Tech2Win, same as the cable, so you can get a subscription if you need to update modules or do security stuff on 2009 to 2014 vehicles.

I think this is more useful than getting the cable as you can use it to scan everything without limits (up to my 2014) and is more portable. I've actually made money scanning and programming cars for people so it paid for itself, as well as saving me from going to the dealer. I used it to scan my 2011 Caprice for the ABS code.

Re: Scantool Alternative

Posted: Sat Sep 15, 2018 3:05 pm
by Mooseman
Another revival/update.

ACDelco have changed their subscriptions. You can now get a 2 year subscription for one VIN for $40. I just got one and, using my Tech 2 as a pass-through, updated my BCM to have the interior lights work with the door :D . Also updated the immobilizer and RKE module for remote start, however need an appropriate remote and add a switch for the hood latch. 8-)

It is also supposed to work with tool J2534 for all modules. I just ordered a cheap one from China and shall see if it works.