Are there benefits to using Techstream over other OBD2 readers and programmers? I know that the manufacturer's diagnostic tool basically sets the bar with all the resources you need to fix your car, but are there other OBD2 alternatives that provide the same in depth services of Techstream without the restrictive price tag?

 

To match Techstream you'll need to buy a pro level tool and pay for a subscription.

 

or purchase the eBay / Amazon one which does not require a subscription but you need to jump a few hoops to make it work. Lots of tutorials on Youtube

 

I think my reasoning is, if you're going to spend a lot on a scanner yes you can get the dealer scanner but for a similar price get a new and feature packed scanner (like calibrating, programing, etc). If there is a scanner in this tier, and doesn't require a subscription, that would be ideal. Still haven't ruled out the techstream yet but if the cost of the scanner is close to the value of the car, it's a hard sell. Again, not ruling it out but would like to know others experience with scanners as it pertains to the GS350.

 

I have an XTools A30D. It works for actuation tests and live data (must faster than Techstream), but doesn't do things like firmware updates or customization. You download the vehicle brands you want on your phone, supposed to be lifetime updates. Since it's Bluetooth, I end up using this 90% of he the time I need to check something.

The Car Care Nut talked about the more advanced models D7 and D8 here:
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I didn't read too much but I think they give you a couples years of updates.

Separately, I bought an Amazon cable. It was a miniVCI 2.0.4 firmware one. It stopped working after about a year. I did not use the software that came with it as there is a possibility of viruses (or use it on a computer you don't have personal info on).

Now if I want to use Techstream, I use it with a Tactrix Open port 2.0 cable. It's made in the US so I trust it'll last a bit longer.

 

thanks for the tip. I got the amazon/ebay alternative for techstream to start off. I'll see how that goes. It was $66 and some change. If it can meet my repair needs great, if not, caveat emptor.
Just a matter of time before I upgrade my Innova 3140b scanner because it's limited in what it can do and not as user friendly as newer, cheaper, bluetooth models.

 

I have an Xtool D6? or 7 i think? And it's been great with my older acura and lexus rx. i haven't had a reason to plug it into my GS yet other than to scan for existing codes, which it was able to do as well. not cheap. cost like $500 but pretty much paid for the cost when i programmed my tpms sensors

 

Fyi, Techstream is just the software. Multiple cables work with Techstream. Most of the eBay/Amazon cables are just a clone of a clone of a clone, and some are bad at even that.

 

Thanks. I thought I'd just give it a shot with the cable and TS. D7 and D8 looks promising too. My items should be here in a week.

 

what about the autel maxicom mk 900?

 

Seconding the Tactrix Open port 2.0 cable for anyone who chooses to use Techstream instead of a third party tool. I'm not sure how long I've had mine, but it's easily over a decade. Make sure to order it directly so you don't wind up with some counterfeit.

 

I have an older version of Techstream. Is there a way to update it without a dealer login? I’m good with basic stuff but can’t do that & would like it updated.

 

There are ways to pirate a newer version yes. What car is this for? Updating may have no value or make things worse it depends.

 

I have a 2017 GX460 with all the options and a 2005 LX470. I screwed something up with my LX and was trying to reprogram the key. There is a way inside techstream to do that but mine tells me that it fails to communicate even though it is connected and otherwise works. I have the code needed to reprogram and so forth.

 

If it helps, I have version 12.20 and I finds my 2018. (2018 is actually the last year it lists, at least for GS). I haven't tried to reprogram a key though.