How to use GM Tech2 scan tool for Chevrolet C5 diagnostic?

This is a write-up for those with a GM Tech 2 scan tool on Chevrolet C5

Tech 2 scanner is a diagnostic tool for the most part. It can be used to program out/in certain RPO’s in the BCM and can be used to bleed the ABS brake system without introducing air into the system. The extent to which it can be used to tune a Chevrolet C5 is that if you have a PCM Image that will work for your car you can save the current PCM Image and flash the new one you have onto the PCM. It cannot go in and individually change the tuning tables in the PCM as can say either EFI Live or HP Tuners tuning tools. But then those tools cannot touch the BCM either.

If you do or plan to do a lot of diagnostic work on your car it can be a worthwhile tool. Most of the diagnostic charts in the factory service manual assume the availability of a Tech 2. But you have to learn to use the tool like any other computerized diagnostic tool. It has layers and layers of menus to wade through. But in certain diagnostic situations it can be an invaluable tool because it allows you to turn on and off hundreds of computerized settings to aid in the diagnosis process.

GM intentionally dumbed down the capabilities of the Tech 2 to change things to avoid law suits due to an errant technician that changed engine or emissions settings that could result in engine damage or emissions violations.

GM Tech2, the bi-directional scan tool can access all the 10 computers in the c5 corvette. That means it can scan for DTC codes, allow the adding or removing of most accessory codes like turning off the mag ride shocks to install regular schocks, fixing window regulator problems, etc. For Bi-directional it can active the ABS system to flush the brake fluid, reset the Long Term Fuel Trims, eliminate the 1-4 shift on manual trans, etc. It cannot make changes (like a tune tool) to the transmission or engine management system. For the avid DIY’er it is a great tool.
In the C5, the “computers” (technically they are modules) and they communicate over the OBDII compatible DLC data bus to each other. The range from you radio to your ride control, to your HVAC system. Even the Bose head unit talks to the PCM and BCM through this bus, but the CD changer talks over a “private” data bus to the head unit.

The Sensor Modules that can be pulled up from the DIC are:
PCM, BCM, TCS, RTD, IPC, HVAC, LDCM, RDCM, SCM, RFA, and SDM.
Only those C5’s with RPO F45 or F55 will have RTD.

Reference: Here is a very useful TECH2 pathing document that you can use to figure out how to get to the end result that you need to test.

download link: https://www.corvetteforum.com/forums/attachments/c5-tech/48078347d1490892183-what-can-i-do-with-a-tech2-tech-2paths-en-1-.pdf

http://www.obdii365.com/producttags/gm-tech2.html

GM Tech2 Vetronix Feedback Yes and NO (Comprehensive, All Here)

This article includes all GM Tech2 Vetronix feedbacks Yes and No list, aiming to help the GM technicians who are new to GM TECH2. 

Before continuing reading, please note GM TechII works not on truck; go for VXDIAG VCX HD for truck.

GM tech2 Vetronix to test OK

Item No. SP23-C, with Candi interface for C6, $349 (bought from obdii365.com)

Item No. SP23, $285 (cheapest)
I have no other GM Tech from the same shop, but as I know some guys test ok too.

How to use GM tech 2?

Plug and play, no need install on computer.

GM tech2 Youtube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r9LFe-sS3zs

Test Report:

Remind: press Ctrl+ F to search is easier.

Part 1: Feedback Yes

- Used my GM tech II to retrofit tcs and marry a non divorced cd changer.

- reads everything a genuine one does. Heck, it's probably made in the same factory as a genuine one with a different sticker on it. Pinpoint bad air bag sensors, turned on the tpms on both our Z's.

- It works exactly like any others I’ve used at gm dealers over the years

- $339 for a brand new tech2 with a CANDI module all the cables and adapters and case is great

-connected to my intimidator ss and everything was there

- Change one of my c5s that is canadien to US to disable the auto headlights because they don't always open when they should and when they do work right they come on too early.

- You have to specify GM English when you order the unit. There are a lot of other cards for different languages Saab, Holden, etc

- Is now fully functional for F body, C5 and C6, It cost me a lot more than the initial $1000 that I thought was a good deal.

- Plugin to my '08 93 Aero and play around with the typical body and key features. My primary reason for picking up the Tech II was to program a spare key. I figured ~$500+ at a dealer or ~$400 on my own would be well worth it...obviously if I received a working, defect free, unit.

- Programming a key and changing some of the standard comfort features.

- Able to get security access using an old Dell laptop from my IT guy's graveyard.

- Programming a new key was easily as 1-2-3

- Changed my key-unlock settings to all at first press, and then lock on drive off/open on key out was a snap.

- If you had a Tech2, you could possibly talk to the dealer and have them access their TIS system to load the BCM or PCM calibration to your Tech2. Some may do it.

If you can't do that, just buy additional TIS2000 with USB key.

- Hooked it up to test engine, ABS, transmission etc, stored DTCs, Freeze Frame, live data all the test result were displayed on the large, easy –to-read backlit screen. It helped to carry out accurate and stable diagnostic function.

- Compared with GM MDI, Tech2 covers more vehicles including OPEL, GM, SAAB, and Isuzu.

-used it on my GMC for air bag warning

-Tried it on my 2006 Silverado & worked ok.

- The tis 2000 needs windows XP, Vista, win8.1, Win 7 32 bit.

- Able to easily and completely program out the TPMS system

- I have used mine to do two crank sensor re=learns and did the brake bleed on mine for the EBCM flush and it worked fine

- I am fairly certain it works on all GM cars til 2013. I have used it on my 03 GMC full size pickup, and my sisters 07 Trailblazer !!!! (and my 99 vette of course).

-If you have a 1997-2000, the TPMS is in the firmware and cannot be programmed. With the addition of the Z06 in 2001-2004, it can be programmed.

- Bleed the ABS ok.

- Used to cycle and bleed the ABS brakes on my C6 ok

-Plugged it in to my 2011 Z06, and activated the Afterblow feature. I also cleared some old DTC codes that were in history. It works just fine and the quality feels genuine. It's a pretty good knock off. Even came with all of the stickers from the Veltronix manufacturer. I assume they are knock off too.

- Used it to program my key fobs for my malibu but also have 4 other chevys

Part 2: Feedback NO

- GM tech2 would NOT work with All C5's, if you are going to use it on a C6,, make SURE you have the CAN D modules.

- Cars only, no trucks, be advised to use Allscanner VXDIAG VCX HD heavy duty scanner.

….To be continued…

blog.obdii365.com

GM MDI/GM Tech 2 reset ECM Engine Control Module

This is step-by-step instruction on how to do engine control module recovery on Cadillac cars.

modules tested successfully with the tools and guide below:
2009 Buick Enclave
2007-2009 Cadillac CTS, SRX, STS
2009 Chevrolet Traverse
2007 GMC Acadia
2009 GMC Acadia
2007 Saturn OUTLOOK
2009 Saturn OUTLOOK

Diagnostic tool:
GM MDI module/
GM Tech 2 scanner

Engine control module recovery procedure:
1. Disconnect the programming device.
2. Power down the control modules connected to the GM LAN bus by disconnecting the positive battery cable for 2 minutes.
3. Reconnect the positive battery cable.
4. Determine which programming device will be used to perform the recovery steps.
If using MDI, connect to the programming station or Notebook using a cable (LAN). Proceed to Step 5 and then Steps 6-8.
If using a Tech 2 proceed to Steps 6-8.
5. Reboot the programming station or Notebook. This is to make sure nothing is in memory.
OBD2 Note: Selecting Replace and Reprogram from the Select Diagnostic Tool and Process Screen is REQUIRED because some of the calibrations may be erased from the initial attempt to reprogram the module.
6. Reprogram the engine control module. Select Replace and Reprogram from the Select Diagnostic Tooland Process Screen.
7. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the programming event.
8. Clear all DTCs using the GM Tech 2 or GDS.

GM Tech2 scanner update CD30 to CD30MP3

Here is an example of decoding or deactivating Opel/ Vauxhall Radio CD30MP3 with Tech2 diagnostic scan tool step-by- step.

Equipment:

GM TechⅡ diagnostic scan tool

TIS2000 CD software and USB key

Instructions:

Install and setup GM Tech 2 scanner and TIS2000 software CD

Connect Tech2 main unit with vehicle via OBD socket

Come to Main Menu, select F0: Vehicle Diagnose (Fahrzeug diagnose)

Select vehicle year: 2004

Select vehicle model: Astra-H

Select F5: Information system

Select EHU (Entertainment Head Unit)

Follow the system notice

Select F5: Programming

Select F5: Programming Audio Index

The Tech 2 scanner system then will display Audio index and Audio version information, manually enter the index code

Programming complete, test the radio system on your vehicle

Back to the main menu, exit and disconnect the Tech2 scan tool.

How to program GM Vans Cruise Control with GM Tech2

Here is the instruction on activating cruise control feature for GM Vans by GM Tech II diagnostic scanner. 

Vehicle coverage:

2007-2009 Chevrolet Equinox and Pontiac Torrent mid-size crossovers

2008-2009 GM full size Vans

Equipment:

GM Tech 2 OBD2 diagnostic scan tool

CANdi module

TIS2000 software CD +soft USB key

A laptop running Win XP home

NOTE:

CANdi interface and TIS2000 software CD can be purchased separately. There are several Tech2 packages in obdii365, like GM Tech2 with CANdi interface, GM Tech2 with 32 MB card and TIS2000 etc. You need to get the left stuff.

Programming cruise control with Tech 2 instruction:

Ⅰ Cruise Control Installation

Here are some picture instructions:

Ⅱ BCM programming

1.       Turn the ignition to ON position

2.       Connect the GM Tech2 scanner with vehicle via OBD port

3.       Power up the Tech2 device. Enter the main menu

4.       Select F1: Service Programming System

5.       Select F0:Request Info

6.       Select Continue with USB software key

7.       Select vehicle model Chevrolet or Pontiac

8.       Select vehicle year, like 2007

9.       Select LD TRK, MPV, Incomplete

10.   Select detail specific model: Equinox or Torrent

11.   Follow the system prompts and select Continue with USB soft key

12.   Click Yes to verify the displayed VIN and confirm it is correct

13.   Turn the ignition OFF. Unplug the Tech2 scan tool from the vehicle.

14.   Connect the Tech 2 to the TIS computer

15.   Power up the Tech2 and start running the TIS software program

16.   Select Diagnostic Tool: TechⅡ

17.   Select Programming Process: Replace and Reprogram ECU

18.   Select ECU location: Vehicle

19.   Click Next until the VIN id displayed

20.   Verify the VIN by click Yes and then click Next to continue.

21.   Select Controller: BCM

22.   Select Programming Type: Normal

There are 3 options in the program: System, Interior/Exterior Lighting and Power-train Control.

For System Select Calibration, choose #25828506-Steering Wheel Control UK3

For Interior/Exterior Lighting, choose #25828503(No Fog Lights) or #25828504(With Fog Lights)

For Power-train Control, choose #25828488-Cruise Control K34

23.   Verify calibration files are correct, click Next to continue

24.   When complete load data to Tech2 scanner, click Close

25.   Disconnect TECH2 OBDⅡscanner from TIS2000 and vehicle

26.   Turn the ignition ON and power up the Tech2 device.

27.   Select F1: Service Programming System

28.   Select F0: Program ECU. Verify the VIN is correct.

29.   Follow the screen prompts and click Continue with USB soft key

30.   Wait about 2 minutes to download the data. Then turn off the ignition for 10 sec.

Ⅲ BPP Sensor Calibration

31.   Turn the ignition to ON

32.   Click Continue with USB software key

33.   Click Exit button to back to the Start menu and select F0-Daignostics

34.   Select vehicle year: 2007

35.   Select LD, MPV, Incomplete

36.   Select vehicle model: Chevrolet Truck or Pontiac MPV

37.   Select body: L Body

38.   Select F3-Vehicle Control System

39.   Select engine: (F)3.4L V6 LNJ

40.   Select F2-Module Setup

41.   Select Body Control Module

42.   Select F0-BPP Sensor Calibration. Do not touch the brake pedal and insure that the vehicle is on park.

43.   Click Continue with USB soft key. Press Exit button when all procedures are complete.

Ⅳ Primary Key Configuration

44.   Select F1-Set Up SDM Primary Key in BCM, click Enter

45.   Then the system will prompts: “Procedure Complete”, click Exit button

46.   Turn the ignition OFF for 10sec and then start the engine

47.   Back to TECH2 scanner main menu and select Diagnostics

48.   Select vehicle year: 2007

49.   Select LD, MPV, Incomplete

50.   Select vehicle model: Chevrolet Truck or Pontiac MPV

51.   Select body: L Body

52.   Select F3-Vehicle Control Module

53.   Select F0-Vehicle DTC Information

54.   Select F0-DTC Display

55.   Click View all DTCs with soft key, click Yes to Clear all DTCs.

56.   Drive a road test to make sure the cruise control is working 

GM Tech2 TIS2000 “ERROR! Registry access error”

GM Tech II is a very popular diagnostic scanner. Below is some question asked by customers. Technician’s answer may help you using the GM tech2 scanner easily.

Question one:I installed the Tis2000 software on a VMware, my car is SAAB 2003, when I want to get the security code, the software show me a prompt “ ERROR! Registry access error” as following picture show. What’s the problem?

Answer：The error shows the driver software of USBKEY has not been installed successfully on your computer. You should notice the driver software CAN NOT be installed on Virtual Machine.

Customer Feedback: I install the driver software again on a new computer with Win XP, it is installed smoothly. After the installation finished, the error never show again.

Question Two:

After I installed the software of Tech 2 on win xp, I want to program ECU for my SAAB. But there shows a error, it says ” E2106: No connection with the handheld device”. Here is the error picture:

Answer:This error shows you did not connect your tech2 device with the computer. To solve this problem, you should connect your gm tech2 with computer by internet access. After they are connected, you can continue programming the ECU.

Customer Feedback: it is right. I connect the tech2 interface with computer by internet access, and i go on programming the ECU. All works fine now.

How to do GM Tech 2 scanner KEYPAD Test ?

Following are the steps to do keypad test for GM Tech 2 diagnostic scan tool:

Step 1:Select F4 Tool Options

Step 2:Select F3 Self Test

Step 3:Connect the CANdi Interface and ALDL loopback. 

Step 4:Select Selectable Main PCB

Step 5:Select F3 Keypad

Step 6:Press F0 Key

Step 7: Press F1 Key

Picture No.7 is to test F0 key, key Pressed status: pass mean F0 key is working. You have to test one-by-one: F0-F1-F2-F3-F4-F5-F6-F7-F8-F9-EXIT-ENTER-?
Do not skip any of the key.

How to disable Corvette C5 F55 with GM Tech2 scanner

So here I would like to share my experience disabling F55 and reflashing DBS using GM Tech2 scan tool. I have a 2005 c5 F55 with heads, cam, injectors, etc. tuned with HP tuners. I did some search about having the DBS reflash and F55 disable done and I read in a couple blogs and threads that people are unsure whether the DBS reflash or any other BCM changes will affect custom ECU tunes. I had the tech do these two changes to the BCM and checked the car after each.

Disclaimer: Please strictly follow the steps in case anything goes wrong. The F55 disabling and DBS reflashing are on your own risk.

First I had the tech do the DBS reflash for me in about 10 min. My tune was NOT affected and the car started and ran normally.

I then had him disable the F55 suspension. Again, my tune was NOT affected and the car started and ran normally.

It is also worth noting that HP Tuners can NOT make changes to the BCM.

If you are looking to disable your F55 using the GM TECH 2 scanner:

1. Hook up Tech 2, turn car ON, make sure module in the rear is PLUGGED IN. Do Not unplug the rear module.
2. Go to diagnostics — Body — BCM — BCM Special functions — BCM Setup.
3. Delete the F45 option ( F55 did not appear on the menu screen on the Tech 2, use F45)

4. Save new configuration.
5. Do not turn car off, do not remove Tech 2, go to the module in the rear of the car, unplug the grey connector( the widest one) leave the center plug in and the smaller black plug in.
6. Turn off car leave Tech 2 plugged in.
7. Remove remaining plugs from module in the rear of car.
8. Turn car on to verify the “Max speed 80 mph” is gone.
9. Unplug Tech 2 and put tools away.

Then you have to follow the bouncing ball of checking off RPO Codes. When you get to F55 set it to disabled.

How to disable GM Saab TPMS with GM Tech2 scanner

Equipment:
GM Tech2Ⅱ scanner
CANdi interface (CANBUS)
32 MB PCMPIA memory card
A subscription Saab TIS2000 software CD
A laptop with wireless internet connection

NOTE:
CANdi interface, TIS2000 software CD and 32 MB card for gm tech2 can be purchased separately. GM Tech2 scan tool often comes with CANdi interface or TIS2000 software CD, you need to get the left stuff. If you need to do Saab vehicles, choose specific Saab TIS2000 software instead.

Vehicle model example: GM Saab 9-3

Instruction:

ⅠRemove BCM

Install 32MB card into GM Tech2 diagnostic scanner.

Install GM Tech2 scan tool with CANdi interface connect it with vehicle via OBD socket

Select model year
Select 9-3(9440)
Select Diagnostics
Select ALL
Select Add/Remove
Select BCM (Body Control Module)
Select Remove

ⅡRe-add the BCM
After removed the BCM, repeat the previous procedures and select Add

At this time, GM tech2 will list long lists of options for the car, like truck the presence of several optional items, like trunk switch in driver’s door, sunroof, TPMS, etc. For the functions you are not sure, Tech II scanner has an Auto-Suggest feature, where it will suggest the correct option.

Select vehicle region: EU (Europe)
(Do not select US for cars in US market are strictly set)

Select “Without TPMS” when the system pops out TPMS is preset notice
Answer the system questions prompted and instructions

Ⅲ Disable TPMS

Select model year
Select 9-3 (9440)
Select Diagnostics
Select All
Select Add/Remove
Select TPMM (Tire Pressure Monitoring Module)
Select Remove

The TPMS is successfully disabled.
Disconnect GM Tech2 from car’s OBD diagnostic socket.

How to unlock Chevy TrailBlazer radio using GM Tech2

I have successfully unlocked the radio on my Chevy TrailBlazer with a clone GM Tech2 scan tool from China yesterday. Here I would like to share the procedure.

If you also like to unlock the radio, please complete the following procedure, using the Tech 2 scanner, in order to properly set up communication:

Connect Tech2 to the OBD port of the vehicle. When the screen of the tool illuminates, it means the tool hooks up with the car. Then you can start the process:

1. Go to the main menu and select: Diagnostics.

2. Select Vehicle Identification and then the following options:

– Model Year

– LD Trk, MPV, Incomplete

3. At the System Selection Menu screen, select: Body

4. At the Vehicle Identification screen, select the following:

– Appropriate model

– Appropriate Air Conditioning

– Navigation Radio

5. Select: Navigation Radio.

6. Select: Special Functions.

7. Select: VIN Relearn.

8. Then you will get a message: “Do you want to clear radio theft information?”

9. To begin clearing, press the soft touch key on the top right of the scan tool. The scan tool will display “Clearing Radio Theft in Progress.”

10. Press EXIT on the scan tool and cycle the ignition.

Done. Disconnect GM Tech2 from the car.

GM Tech2 Scanner Reset OPEL Corsa-C ECU & IMMO

Here is the instruction on how to reset Reset OPEL Corsa-C ECU and IMMO with GM Tech 2 diagnostic scanner.

Equipment:

GM Tech2 Scan Tool

Car Model and Year:

OPEL Corsa-C 2005

IMMO Resetting Steps:

Step 1:

Plug GM TECH II cable into OPEL Corsa-C socket;

Boot up GM Tech2 diagnostic tool;

Step 2:

Enter into Main Menu;

Click Diagnostics to select car model and year;

Click Body >> Immobilizer >> Partnumber >> Additional Functions >> Reset Immobilizer, next you need to enter security code.

Step 3:

Operate according to the tips, until it appears message reading “Reset Immobilize. Reset completed successfully!” It is Okay.

ECU (Engine) Resetting Steps:

Step 1:

Come back to Additional Functions interface;

Select Reset Engine Control Module;

Select Installed Engine

Wait for the data;

Step 2:

Enter Security Code;

Pop out message reading “Reset Engine Control Module. Reset Completed Successfully”, it is Okay.

Step 3:

Come back to Body (interface);

Select Programming >> Program Immobilizer Function:

Select Installed Engine;

Select Immobilizer and ECM Installed;

Enter Security Code;

Enter Vehicle Identification Number

Show message to turn ignition off and then on.

DONE!