GM scan tool recommendation

[bobemmerich]

I already have a Code reader (Foxwell NT630) and I know it's been spoken about time over and over, but other than the Factory Tech2, is there a decent tool that will do relearns or flashing? I'm more specifically worried about individual system modules (fuel, transfer case, body, etc...) rather than the ECM.
I see the tech2 "knockoffs" on ebay, but don't really trust them.
Thanks in advance,
Bob

 

[joetech]

I already have a Code reader (Foxwell NT630) and I know it's been spoken about time over and over, but other than the Factory Tech2, is there a decent tool that will do relearns or flashing? I'm more specifically worried about individual system modules (fuel, transfer case, body, etc...) rather than the ECM.
I see the tech2 "knockoffs" on ebay, but don't really trust them.
Thanks in advance,
Bob

FWIW I bought a snapon ethos and it's capable of bidirectional communication and will activate ABS and such. Don't know if it'll do relearns or flashing though. Capable tool that can be bought for $500-600 on eBay.

Not going to find much worth buying under $500.

 

[fordcragar]

I bought one of the Tech 2 clones from China, and it works great. There are a bunch of guys on another forum, I'm on, that have bought them and haven't had any problems. I think that for about $300, it would be hard to find anything better.

 

[OHMS LAW]

Other than mdi I’m not sure any other device can program gm. I would look for a used solus ultra or even roll the dice with the new autel

 

[Fedwrench]

don't forget that in addition to the correct tool, you'll need a subscription to GM SI to reflash any module.

 

[toolenthusiast]

GDS2+MDI has been the GM scan tool since ~2010MY and the GM flashing tool since 2007. I don’t know why everyone always jumps to the Tech2. It’s ancient, the CANdi update does not provide full functionality, and Chinese knockoffs are even surer to disappoint.

 

[chipjumper]

I’d get a T2 clone and an MDI2 clone. There are things that I can’t do even with my T2 as as a pass thru with ACDelco TDS. The standalone T2 is good for diagnostic work without the burden of fumblefarting around with cables and a laptop etc.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[BlackLS2]

My $230 Tech 2 Chinese clone has been nothing but awesome for several years. Chinacardiags.com.

BTW that Bosch/Vertronix Tech 2 technology is a few decades old. They spit out a boat load of Apple watches overthere before we get out of bed each day...a Tech 2 is like 486 / Pentium level technology.

If you need MDI (2010) then go there....

 

[atikovi]

My $230 Tech 2 Chinese clone has been nothing but awesome for several years.

This. And if you want to do relearns and flashing, I don't think any clone, Tech2 or MDI will work when you try to connect it to the GM server.

 

[bobemmerich]

WOW! Thanks, guys.
Lots of good info. Basically I just DIY now (back when I did wrench for a living we had a Snappy MT2500? and Tech 2 at the shop) but now I had to change out a transfer case module and allegedly have to have it "flashed" by GM (which I still have yet to do), and soon I'm doing the brake lines on my Silverado (the "dealer" repair was compression fittings ) and I'm gonna have to do the ABS autobleed. My vehicles are 2000, 2001 and 2002, so I'm not too worried about being "Up to current MY" inventory, but something upgradeable would be nice, but not necessary.
Doing a search, it's mind boggling.
Not worried about the '18 Equinox, it's under warranty for another 30K.

 

[bobemmerich]

don't forget that in addition to the correct tool, you'll need a subscription to GM SI to reflash any module.

Fed, Thanks. I checked out the pricing. As far as I'm concerned, its a small price to pay to save a tow to and a charge from a dealer.

 

[atikovi]

soon I'm doing the brake lines on my Silverado (the "dealer" repair was compression fittings ) and I'm gonna have to do the ABS autobleed.

Unless somehow you run air through the ABS pump, I can't see why you would need to autobleed. I've changed the fluid and replaced calipers and hoses on GM trucks and never had to do that, but assume any clone T2 would be able to.

 

[bobemmerich]

They broke the line right at the ABS unit and spliced in with the above mentioned compression fittings, and I don't know what or how thorough they were (used car dealer). The brakes still feel spongy and there's no leakage at the fittings, so I wanna make sure it was done COMPLETELY and CORRECTLY.

 

[454ragtop]

Done some total brake line replacements on Chevy/GMC trucks, just bleed manually by myself, no issues. I just upgraded my scan tool to an Autel MS906BT and I have to say I'm very impressed. Suppose to do things like your transfer case module, air bag modules, codes keys etc. If you get over this way at all I'd try flashing the T-case module for you just for kicks.

 

[bobemmerich]

454, thanks. maybe, it's only about 3 hours away.
I was looking at that unit, but the wife says 400-500 budget Although, my 50th B-day is coming up, so maybe I have a shot...LOL

 

[atikovi]

Also got the Autel MS906BT last year. Very nice tool. Make sure if you buy, it is the "BT" version and not the cheaper MS906. You should be able to get a new one under $1200 but check on Ebay for used models. You might find one in the $600-$800 range occasionally.

 

[torqueman2002]

OP - my family also owns GM vehicles, but as others have pointed out, the TECH 2 is no longer being updated and prices for genuine ones are very pricey.

I have been using an Autel MS908, which covers the GM OEM tool, with the exception of pass-through programming. I believe the 908P (pro) does have that capability.

Here's a comparison of OBD II scan tools. "10 Best Autel Scanners Review and Comparison Chart [updated 2019]"
https://www.obdadvisor.com/autel-scanners/

 

[ngk22r]

I already have a Code reader (Foxwell NT630) and I know it's been spoken about time over and over, but other than the Factory Tech2, is there a decent tool that will do relearns or flashing? I'm more specifically worried about individual system modules (fuel, transfer case, body, etc...) rather than the ECM.
I see the tech2 "knockoffs" on ebay, but don't really trust them.
Thanks in advance,
Bob

There is also the Launch X-431 pro which works really well. And you can do other makes, access different modules, etc.

LAUNCH X431 V (X431 Pro) Bi-Directional Bluetooth Scan Tool Full System OBD2 Diagnostic Scanner with ECU Coding,Key Fob Programming, Oil Reset, TPMS Reset, IMMO, BMS, SAS, DPF, EPB, ABS Bleeding https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07FCDWZKW/?tag=atomicindus08-20

Just depends how much you want to spend.

The Tech2 clones work really well too.

 

[VinceG]

You can get a used Matco Max/Me around $200-300 off ebay. it is subscription based for $20 a month if you are not using it stop the subscription till you need it again.

 

[clinebarger]

GDS2+MDI has been the GM scan tool since ~2010MY and the GM flashing tool since 2007. I don’t know why everyone always jumps to the Tech2. It’s ancient, the CANdi update does not provide full functionality, and Chinese knockoffs are even surer to disappoint.

The chinese knockoffs are actually pretty good.
While the Tech 2 is ancient.....It's still a good handheld scan tool up to 2013MY.

What's exactly missing as far as functionality is concerned with the CANdi?? Not that the OP needs a CANdi module or a updated card for his vehicles.

I have one of the original HP manufactured ones....It's been a great tool for over 20 years.

 

[TimMiller117]

Thank you for the recommendations from you guys. I do some research from Google and I've bought one based on review from this post https://obdsolaris.com/, Launch CRP129 Scan Tool with Transmission, ABS, SRS System,.... works so well up to now.

 

[CGarage]

What about this?

autoenginuity - OBD2 ScanTool

AutoEnginuity's® OBD2 ScanTool is a professional Windows® PC diagnostics ScanTool for all OBDII (OBD2) and EOBD IV+ compliant vehicles.

www.autoenginuity.com

I have 3 Snap-On “red bricks” (vintage 2500s) for working on my H1s. You can pick them up sometimes for $100 but need to check what vintage the modules are that go with it. Coverage is up to 2001 iirc for GM and it is bidirectional capable.