GM Scanenr Archivi - Car Diagnostic Tools

My dad has a 2012 Chevy Equinox that uses newer GM network platform. No diagnostic coverage using a GM Tech2. The Equinox has been suffering some BCM problems lately with no way to plug in.. Only thing I could get was powertrain codes using a cheap scanner.

Anyway GM MDI 2. Used. I got a good MDI clone from a trusted source Autonumen.com. I have used this site since July 2015.

Bought a mdi2 wifi version with a hard drive. Came in today. It uses a laptop.

works well, would recommend cloning HDD, as they seem to be easy to wipe it windows does a check disk. The HDD has many different packages to install as needed. I have used on the Chevy, will try on a Buick next time I have one to work on.

This interface can do system diagnostics and ….added bonus….program replacement modules.

There is a MDI 1 version too. I don’t mind if clone mdi 2 is same as mdi 1. I saw people using it without a problem.

Old Acer laptop is now setup with the GM MDI manager software. GDS2 identifies it as a MDI2.

So then wireless GM GDS2 diagnostics from home network (using ACDelco 3 day subscription) to laptop in garage…..then wireless from laptop to the MDI 2 in the car 30 feet away….it does work.

Lots of BCM codes. Equinox main problems were the wipers and washer would cycle on at key on…..4 way flashers were coming on 30 minutes after key off. Both go thru the BCM.

Equinox is fixed with a new BCM. Ended up having local GM shop program the new BCM.

In case someone is interested, these are the PCBs of GM MDI2 SP163-E (Wi-Fi Version).

You will need a GM Tech 2 Scan Tool with it’s 32MB card (updated) and the CANdi module. I have seen the pair sell for as cheap as $228 on Autonumen.com and as much as $3000 off eBay.

Btw, if you look for a decent tool for use only, it’s ok to have a cheap but functional china clone.

Seems like the old answers are a cheaper and easier solution.
1. Have a GM dealer do it
2. Have a locksmith do it
3. Buy the Dorman part that comes with a programming module for less than $80.

Those options are cheaper if you do not have a Tech 2. This is why you will expect to pay for a Tech 2.

Which is like saying it is cheaper to take my car to the shop and have them change the water pump for $100 instead of me going to sears and spending $228 on a cool set of craftsman tools and a toolbox and doing the work myself. Personally, I am heading to Sears, because those tools will keep on saving me money for the rest of my life.

Yes, the Tech 2 does other things besides programming a key fob and you really would have to be a chevy buff / mechanic before it would be worth buying one. The tech 2 is not for everyone.

The Tech 2 is a powerful, versatile hand-held diagnostic computer, designed to help diagnose and repair automotive electronic systems.The Tech 2 supports the changes in the on-board electronic systems for model years 1992 to 2013. With the addition of the CAN Diagnostic Interface (CANdi) module, Tech 2 will support GM on-board electronic systems thru 2013.

The CANdi is an in-cable module that works with existing Tech 2 components including the VCI, cables and adapters to add CAN diagnostic capability to the Tech 2 tester. The CANdi module is fully backward compatible with current Tech 2 functionality and operates transparently when diagnosing non-CAN-equipped vehicles.

The Tech 2 has since been replaced with GM MDI.

Test: Tech 2 programmed key fob to 2006 Chevrolet HHR