I currently use Techstream with an Amazon J2534 VIM connector and works fine. However, I recently saw a TECHSTREAM DENSO INTERFACE VIM module for sale online for $300 and wondering a few things to see if it's worth the switch or simply stay with my current setup. 1. Are there any advantages to using this larger VIM with any version of OFFLINE Techstream ? (I currently have access to v18). 2. Are you able to do things with more things using the TS VIM vs the J2534? Does it require specific drivers and are they readily available online for download or proprietary to Toyota. 3. I see the TS VIM has a port labeled “Power”, so does this have to be connected to a wall outlet for use or is it only to charge the unit? 4. Lastly, the one being sold has the unit and only includes the USB connector from the VIM to the laptop. Is that enough or as I was asking in # 3, do I need a power cable and if so is it hard to get or can I get around an aftermarket one?
The Techstream for home users is basically just that, enough power for a home user. May not be as robust or reliable as the dealership version with a better cable connection. Since you have a gen 2 car, you probably can do every function with your current techstream that allows for a gen 2. So upgrading is just a waste of money, unless you're looking for more reliability. If that's the case, you should invest in a better cable that's probably going to cost you $300 or more
I no longer own a Gen 2, I have a Gen 3 but I would want it to work on either gen obviously since I sometimes work on other people’s cars. So, basically no additional functions for the offline version using this specific dealer VIM? I had read somewhere that you could not program keys, TPMS or ECU’s with the Amazon cheaper scanner and needed a higher end cable like you say but this is apparently that since its what they use at the dealership (not sure if currently).
I have the same cheap cable that you're using. For most diagnosis functions, the cable is adequate for Gen 2 and Gen 3 cars. But when I need to bleed brakes, make keys, something that requires a good connections, I would have to use a friend's Techstream, which he has purchased the more expensive cable for reliability. I have access to many of the professional scanners that shops use, and I find the wireless connections (these are widely available now) are not very reliable. The software is always being updated so if you run into a newer car that your current Techstream cannot connect to, then it's time to download a newer version of the software. I have not downloaded anything new for my gen2 and gen3 cars, because I have all the functions available on my current version. I would hate to update my software and lose the functions for the older cars lol
I found a few listing on ebay. That VIM module was used with a very old (obsolete) version of Techstream. The J2534 interface cable is the replacement used for newer versions of Techstream. So the VIM you show the picture of in post #1 will not work with version 18 of Techstream that you are using. EDIT: FYI, the J2534 cable that Toyota recommends for the newer versions of Techstream was a Mongoose cable made by Drew Technologies. It cost about $600 new Posted via the PriusChat mobile app.
Oh ok thanks for letting me know as I was going to look for one already. @JC91006 So you are saying that the I would not be able to do the brake bleed procedure for my Gen 3 using the Amazon j2534 and offline version 18 of Techstream?!?! It’s actually the next big job on the prius, to replace the accumulator and that would require the brake bleed procedure after replacement. Can you please clarify this ? I have a Icon T10 that I saw offers a brake pad replacement and bleed procedure but idk if its trustworthy for such a delicate job. I also saw a Toyota tech guy on youtube say you have to relearn the YAW RATE and something else which he used techstream for so I am concerned now if what you say is true about the J2534 and brake bleed procedures ability.
whats the diff between Techstream (Software) and using a Autel MaxiAP AP200 OBD2 Scanner Bluetooth Wireless OBDII Auto Diagnostic Tool?
Techstream software is installed on a Windows computer. A J2534 interface cable is used between the OBD2 port on the car and the computer. The Autel AP200 is an OBD2 Bluetooth device that plugs into the OBD2 port on the car. An Autel app is installed on your phone. The Autel AP200 device communicates to the app on the phone using Bluetooth. Posted via the PriusChat mobile app.
Brian1954 - that is all clear to me - i was referring to the software capability to do diagnostics for toyota prius. can the autel app also read all error codes and can do in depth battery/hybrid diagnostics?
Yes, the Autel AP200 can do almost as much as Techstream. In your case for diagnostics of the hybrid battery (https://priuschat.com/index.php?posts/3611337) , what you need is a scanner that can read the freeze frame data for the P0A80 code. The Autel AP200 can do that. Posted via the PriusChat mobile app.
PRIUSOCAL No interface with the v18 or older Techstream will program ecus anymore since Toyota has a new graphical GTS+ version that has to have a subscription. Recent vehicles (~5 years) need it for keys as well. TPMS id writes are still functional on the old Techstream in offline mode. New GTS+ Tech stream GERALD10 The hacked older Techstream still has bidirectional controls allowing commanded operation of the egr valve, windows, fans, etc. The Ap200 has very little bidirectional controls. On older Prii the hacked Techstream will access virtually all data pid points but it is not very configurable especially if you want nice graphical trends across ecus. You really won't get more battery data than Dr Prius or Car Scanner gives. Removal, disassembly, inspection along with extended charge discharge processes per module can point to bad modules which enables the mix and match used battery process. Freeze frame is able to show you what other engine parameters were doing when a code was generated. Note: Jumping on somebody else's thread is confusing to everyone and leaves your initial thread missing input.
