Is it worth buying a GM TECH 2 scanner?

[RicanGM]

My 1999 GMC Sierra has automatic door locks, when the truck is running it locks and unlocks when the ignition is off.

I would like to disable that feature and I understand that I need a TECH 2 scanner to do it.

What else is the TECH 2 good for, does it read ABS/Airbags/Transmission's codes?

 

[Matahoe]

I read somewhere that most of the affordable Tech 2's for sale on ebay , etc... are clones. And while they might work for a while. They eventually become unpredictable. They aren't backed by any type of support and if they break for whatever reason then you are out whatever you spent + inconvenience.

I would get ahold of an MDI if you could. I don't have one but from what I gather it's the newest and preferred bidirectional tool in use by GM mechanics today..

http://www.ebay.com/gds/Has-MDI-has...e-GM-guys-take-heed-/10000000173082524/g.html

 

[RicanGM]

Thank you for your input Matahoe, the link didn't work but is this the scanner you are talking about?

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Auto-GM-MDI...536813?hash=item2efeee782d:g:3QoAAOSw32lYv3ff

Thanks

 

[fiatdale]

I have both a real and a clone, had the clone for 2+ years. Never an issue with both, and they both function the same.

 

[RicanGM]

Fiatdale, can you read codes for airbag/abs/transmissions with the Tech 2?

 

[DenaliEd]

Fiatdale, can you read codes for airbag/abs/transmissions with the Tech 2?

Yes. You can also command things like the fuel pump, A/C Compressor, etc to come on for diagnostic purposes, on top of a lot of other things.

 

[DenaliEd]

I read somewhere that most of the affordable Tech 2's for sale on ebay , etc... are clones. And while they might work for a while. They eventually become unpredictable. They aren't backed by any type of support and if they break for whatever reason then you are out whatever you spent + inconvenience.

I would get ahold of an MDI if you could. I don't have one but from what I gather it's the newest and preferred bidirectional tool in use by GM mechanics today..

http://www.ebay.com/gds/Has-MDI-has...e-GM-guys-take-heed-/10000000173082524/g.html

The problem with MDI is you need a subscription, which I think is only available to GM Dealers.

 

[fiatdale]

You can access any module in the truck with the Tech 2. Newer trucks are a bit different in what you can do with one, but for your year, absolutely no issue.

 

[fiatdale]

You can pay for a subscription, but it can be pricey. And youd better know what youre doing (with programming a module) or youll F it up big time.

 

[2011SSVHOE]

You can access any module in the truck with the Tech 2. Newer trucks are a bit different in what you can do with one, but for your year, absolutely no issue.

will it work with a 2011, some say yes and some say no.

 

[fiatdale]

You can read modules in a 2011, yes.

 

[2011SSVHOE]

nice , but can it make changes also? I guess if it can read the modules it' two way communication?

 

[DenaliEd]

will it work with a 2011, some say yes and some say no.

You need a CANDi module as well as the Tech II itself.

 

[2011SSVHOE]

good I'll be on the hunt for one thanks.

 

[RicanGM]

How much should I expect to pay for the real thing, TECH 2 with the Candi module?

 

[HiHoeSilver]

@fiatdale, which clone do you have?

 

[fiatdale]

Real thing? New? At least a couple grand. As for which clone I have, I don't know. I've had it a few years. I'm pretty sure the clones are all the same

 

[TheAutumnWind]

I realize that many people that are actually considering a tech 2 may need it for other purposes... however this allows me to access all modules including trans and abs to diagnose issues. For an individual looking to maintain their personal vehicles I am not sure why you would spend several times as much money.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00652G4TS/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

BTW I also have a el cheapo blue tooth reader and torque 2 and this is definitely superior.

 

[RicanGM]

Real thing? New? At least a couple grand.

I found one on the local craigslist supposedly in excellent condition with the CANdi module for $1200, is that good?

 

[HiHoeSilver]

I found one on the local craigslist supposedly in excellent condition with the CANdi module for $1200, is that good?

Pretty good, bro.