For a technically challenged person. I've done some searching and it seems the more I see the more confused I get. I keep seeing Tech 2 but there's also modules needed and (I think) use of a laptop that I don't have. I'm not sure I'd ever need to "tune" things on either of the vettes or my '16 Silverado but I would like to get a decent unit that can read/delete codes and give me an idea of where to start looking if a problem arises, without me having to go through a technical manual or take a class to learn how to operate the thing.

Would you recommend me getting a basic device to learn how to get the basic things down, then upgrade to a more advanced unit, or is there something that can cover all of the learning curve I need to do?

I really appreciate any help you can give me as I truly want to learn how to do at least some of the technical stuff that's involved in these cars and trucks that are more like computers on wheels.

Thank you for anything you can tell me.

 

What exactly do you want to do?

If it is to get the code, you can drive down to Autozone and they will scan it for you with suggestions. Or you can loan their scan tool and take it home. You get your money back when you return it so it is more of a tool deposit.

If you are a novice at this and want to just use your Android phone, try and it will gather data. IDK about GM since I am new to the C7 world and my C4 uses a totally different thing but for my 01 Excursion with a 7.3 Diesel, I use that and the program Forescan. It even allows you to "buzz" the injectors to test IDM function and pulse the ABS brakes. I wonder if there is such a program that is GM specific and can do more than the basic data scan.

 

I bought a Hyper Tough code scanner from Wal Mart for about $25, works well, easy to use, will show up codes on the vehicle and then will clear them if you want. Use it on friends and neighbors cars all the time. works well for me at a good price.

 

Got a unit a few years back.. Torque ODB II scanner that uses bluetooth works great for general ODB info or if you want to see stuff real time. If you need more involved codes like trans for example, have a dealer read any codes. Nice to have a unit to "catch" a code, sometimes unless it's active like say a failed brake sensor wire.. system does not save detailed info and sometimes nice to catch codes on your unit in case it stops doing it when going to the dealer.

 

Tech 2 does not work on C7. The GM dealer tool for the C7 is called an MDI (Multiple Diagnostic Interface), and that has to be paired with software called GDS2 (Global Diagnostic System). The newer MDI2 will also work. GM is currently replacing GDS2 with something called Techline Connect. It's basically the same software but with a new user interface. There's also a knock-off option I'll mention below.

You've got two choices for DIY. You can get a generic tool that only reads emission related codes and modules. This will really only tell you about codes that set a check engine light. If you get "service stability control" for example, you're out of luck.

For stuff like that, you need a dealer-level tool. You can buy genuine or Chinese knockoff MDIs on eBay. That's the easy part. The harder part is getting the software. GM licenses it as a subscription. You can get a couple days for $57. Or you can get sketchy pirated software.

The most popular option there is to buy a VXNano hardware interface. It's basically an MDI clone, and it comes with said sketchy software. I honestly can't figure out how GM and all the other manufacturers haven't crushed them out of existence for doing that, but whatever. It's a pain to set up, but it'll give you dealer level diagnostics without the high costs and subscription.

It really comes down to what you want to do, and how much you want to invest in terms of money, hassle and morally dubious activities to accomplish it.

 

If you just want to read codes, reset codes, and see some of the basic vitals, I would purchase an OBD2 bluetooth scanner and pair it with your phone or buy a generic code reader. Either option is under $50. I have a Go Point BT1 which serves this basic function and allows more data for apps like Harry’s Lap Timer to record track days.

the more advanced options to reprogram the computers, command functions, etc. would be an MDI, HPTuners, EFILive, etc. with much higher learning curves and prices.

 

Off topic slightly, wonder if there is a "home" user device that can read other codes like trans, etc. etc. thinking it's dealer only or way too expensive for mortals

 

I have a Veepeak currently. It does the general OBDII reading and code resets. I'm going to try the above linked dongle since it specifically can do GM specific reads as well. It's pricier than basic dongles so hopefully worth it.

 

See post #2

 

Ahhh ty

 

I have the slightly older OBDLink MX (not the Plus model). I absolutely love it. BUT...it's nothing without software. It has the hardware to talk to both the high and low speed buses on the C7. That's the entire reason I bought it. But I mostly use it for reverse engineering. It's really easy to script it using Python.

I don't know of any software that will work with the OBDLink that also allows reading the proprietary GM stuff. If someone knows of such software, I'd love to hear about it.

 

They include usable software for GM stuff. I'll report back on its usefulness when I receive it on Saturday.

 

Looking forward to reading your report.

 

Hmm. I just went back through the Amazon page and saw the OBDLink app. That wasn't available when I bought mine. I'll hook it up to my car after work and see what it does.

 

Looks like I need to pay $15 for the GM add-ons because I don't have the MX+. I'll wait on miami's report before I make that decision. The price isn't bad, but I've got quite a few other tools to do the job if I need them. I'll wait to see if it actually works before I add yet another one.

 

Yeah I had to buy the extra ones for other cars as well...

 

Since I use HP Tuners for tuning I just use the HPT Scanner app for codes as well, that and Torque Pro can handle 80% of anything most people will run into. Unless it is a ABS, SRS, or suspension issue you really wont need much more than that.

 

Look into Autel scanners. A wide selection to choose from. Simple to very complex. I have a MX808TS that does a remarkable job but is not the highest unit they sell. This unit will work on any car manufactured currently. My unit only has one way communications. Higher priced units have two way comms.

 

Subscribed...thanks for all of the great input.

 

As I'm sure you've already been told, I'll simply reiterate... if all you wish to do is scan and erase codes any cheapo tool from about anywhere will fill the bill (mine was maybe $25 from who knows where). Even if the included manual is a little thin on code explanations, google will readily help you out. All the best.