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Anyone know GM TECH2 and MID diagnostic tools?

atikovi

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What is the difference between the TECH2 hand held tool and the newer MID interface you use with a laptop? From what I read, the MID will replace the TECH2 but currently it doesn't diagnose, just program. I need to diagnose a few issues on a 2007 Silverado, 2012 Cruze and 2013 Cruze flood car. The clones are under $400 so it might be time to get one.
 
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wafrederick

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The Cheap $300.00 to $400.00 Tech 2s,made in China and don't even bother having updates installed.They will crash when when updates are installed.Overall the clone Tech 2s are good for what you are doing and are good as the real version now made by Bosch.The real version was made by Vetronix,Bosch bought out Vetronix in 2003.Also make sure it has the Candi box with it,a must for these CAN vehicles.
 

Fedwrench

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The last update for the tech 2 has already come out so, I would think about buying a new one unless you work on a lot of GM products.

Depending on the vehicle you're working on, the MDI (Multiple Diagnostic Interface) will do everything a Tech 2 will do but, you'll need a laptop and GDS software. Going forward from the 2013 model year, the MDI with a laptop will be the GM Diagnostic tool.
 
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atikovi

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torqueman2002

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General Motors (GM) has launched Global Diagnostic System 2 (GDS 2) – its next generation, PC-based vehicle diagnostic system. GDS 2 is a PC-based platform that builds on the original GDS application, but also incorporates several new features, based on technician input. Combined with a Multiple Diagnostic Interface (MDI), GDS 2 provides an exclusive, effective and efficient system for the diagnosis of all the automaker’s new Global Architecture vehicles.
http://www.gmmdisale.com/article/gm-gds-2-software-aid5

MY2013 GM vehicles are supported through GM by GDS 2.

Bi-directional commands (turn devices ON/OFF, ... ) are a big difference between licensed GM tools (TECH 2 and GDS 2) and generic after-market tools that display data.
 
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joedodge

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Everyone beat me to the basic info so I won't re type it. Be careful with the clone stuff though they can bring the own issues.
 

kacktus

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Mdi can also use tech2win. A pc based virtual tech2, has all the features of a physical tech2
 
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energ666

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tech2 is being phazes out, the MDI as stated above will replace it fully very shortly, you can use tech2win for older vehicles, GENERALLY anything with the new style flip keys from general motors will require the MDI with GDS2 software. so those clone tech2s will be useless on both cruze's you plan to work on. they may or may not work with the 07 silverado, depending if they have the CANDi module
 

MLB0611

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You do not need the MDI interface, Cardaq has a GM dongle that is approved by GM for Tech2win and GDS 2-$500 dollar cable and a subscription to GDS 2 and you have both. FYI they have short term subscriptions too. Tech2win does have some issues still but should get you what you need.

FYI DO NOT BUY A TECH2 CLONE and expect to program with it you will regret it.
 

Uluz2a6

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I went the clone route to save big bucks. Oops! The only thing I was able to do was program key fobs for 3rd generation Saturn's.

Would not program fobs for any other GM.

Clone will not do a crankshaft position sensor relearn

Clone will not allow for PCM flash.

I bought the real deal and am not sorry about spending the $1500
 

Wamsutta

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For example, the right door lock on my Silverado only works from the drivers switch, not the passenger switch.

That sounds like something that could be diagnosed with a "scope on a rope" AKA Test Light. BBB Industries has free wiring diagrams on their website.
 
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atikovi

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That sounds like something that could be diagnosed with a "scope on a rope" AKA Test Light. BBB Industries has free wiring diagrams on their website.

Besides the fact that post was from 4 years ago, everything is controlled by a module so the days of test lights for anything but point to point wiring is over. Turned out to be the switch after testing the system with my clone Tech2.
 
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