I know these diagnostic tools can be updated. I've read various threads that say there is an update subscription for them.

I'm thinking on buying one of these things(with the 32MB card and already programmed)......is there anything that would shut the tool down if you don't plug in to the subscription service? Since I only need it for a '96, I don't need to update it and I would hate to drop $2500 on this thing only to have it shut down because I don't have access to the update service. So does it have to connect to the update service to keep working?

 

On the Tech 2 you will get a nag screen saying that your software needs to be updated, the screen lasts for a few seconds then you will see the startup screen. The newest software is 29.003.

If you only need up to 96 why not look for a tech 1A. I found one on ebay for $300 with a mass storage cartridge and a OBD2 VIM. Since then I found a Vetronix 16mb cartridge for the MTS3100 (works with the Tech 1A) loaded with domestic (GM, Ford, Mopar) powertrain, brake and chassis software up to 2004 (Mopar uses a different VIM). Check out bosch's site http://www.boschdiagnostics.com/Pages/home.aspx

The Tech 2's TIS2000 reprogramming discs are only good to the end of 2007 after that they switched over to TIS WEB which I believe only works while you have a subscription.

 

I first want to thank you for your help. My biggest problem is that I don't know my options.

I know the 1A is waaaay less than the tech 2. Most of what I have seen on ebay has been the tech 1(not 1A) without the mass storage cartridge(comes with all kinds of others...).

Does the mass storage cartridge always include 81-96 powertrain, abs, etc?

I suppose if I can nab just a 1A, then I could grab the vetronix 16mb cartridge.....does it always include the powertrain, abs, etc? How much is that vetronix 16mb module? I will try to find the pricing, but I wondered if you knew off the top of your head.

 

The Tech 1A is the updated verision with a RS232 port.

The GM mass storage cartridge is updatable by TIS2000 to model year 1996 (Powertrain, Body, Chassis). Most cartridges are updated to this level. Offhand I don't remember the storage size.

Vetronix MTS3100 mass storage cartridges come in 12mb and 16mb. The last update was in 2004. The software is loaded using the MTS3100. Some of the other MTS3100 software options include marine, heavy duty, import (OBDI) and generic OBDII.