For automotive enthusiasts and mechanics working on older GM vehicles, the Tech 2 scan tool is a familiar name. While original Tech 2 units can be expensive and harder to find, Chinese Tech 2 Scan Tool options have emerged as a more accessible alternative. But what are they, and are they a viable option for your diagnostic and programming needs? Let’s delve into the experiences of users and explore the pros and cons of these tools.
Many users have found that chinese tech 2 scan tool clones can be effective for a range of tasks. One user with over a year of experience with their second clone reports that “aside from the issue they all seem to suffer as they age rebooting when the vehicle is cranked… it works fine.” This rebooting issue, often attributed to a “junk voltage regulator,” seems to be a common drawback. Despite this, the tool reportedly functions well with TIS2000 software and even SPS online programming, assuming you acquire a “decent one.”
A key advantage highlighted is the ability to perform module programming offline. Unlike newer tools like MDI or Vx Nano that often require a constant laptop connection, a chinese tech 2 scan tool allows you to load flash files onto the device itself. This means you can program modules “with out a laptop or internet access,” offering flexibility in various working environments. However, users note that these clones are “a LOT slower then an MDI or Vx Nano.”
Beyond the voltage regulator issue, another primary complaint revolves around the build quality of certain components. Specifically, the “cords a mile long” and the connectors are mentioned as potential weak points. Users have observed that “the plugs on the cords are not the greatest,” and connectors can become loose over time, potentially affecting the connection reliability.
Despite these drawbacks, the functionality of a chinese tech 2 scan tool for specific tasks is acknowledged. Users confirm they can “flash other modules in the vehicle assuming it’s a programmable module.” However, it’s important to note a limitation: “they do not have any read function….they only write.” This means the tool is primarily for programming and flashing, not for extracting data from modules.
Experiences shared include successfully flashing BCMs, unlocking radios, and programming TCMs. However, compatibility with newer vehicles is a crucial consideration. While some sellers may claim 2008 coverage, it’s generally accepted that reliable performance is best for vehicles manufactured around 2007 and earlier. For newer vehicles, especially those beyond 2007, firmware quality becomes critical. Older or lower-quality chinese tech 2 scan tool versions might be “flagged by SPS,” indicating compatibility issues or potential risks during online programming. “Better Quality” versions are reported to have better success with online software, though experiences can vary.
A potentially valuable workaround for software access involves utilizing calibration files. Users suggest that if you have access to calibration files “manually added into the folder SPS checks,” you might be able to bypass the need for online access and subscriptions. This could be beneficial for users who have previously accumulated flash files or have access to such resources.
Finally, it’s worth noting a clarification regarding terminology. The term “Truck” in some contexts may refer to vehicles with a 24-volt electrical system, which is relevant for understanding certain diagnostic parameters or tool compatibility in heavy-duty applications.
In conclusion, a chinese tech 2 scan tool can be a cost-effective option for working on older GM vehicles, particularly for programming and flashing modules. However, potential buyers should be aware of reported issues like voltage regulator problems, connector quality, slower speed, and limitations with newer vehicles. Choosing a “Better Quality” version and understanding the tool’s write-only functionality are important considerations. For users primarily working on pre-2007 GM vehicles and needing offline programming capabilities, a chinese tech 2 scan tool can be a worthwhile tool, but it’s crucial to manage expectations and be aware of its limitations compared to more advanced and expensive scan tools.
