GM MDI Clone Scan Tool Unboxing Review and Setup ACDelco TDS Intro (Best Chinese Clone to Buy)
This video goes thru unboxing and setup of the best quality GM Multiple Diagnostic Interface (MDI) clone / replica example, comparison with the prior generation GM Tech2 scan tool, and how to reflash (recover) the MDI device firmware and configure the settings using the Bosch MDI Manager for Windows 7 and up, and finally an intro overview of the ACDelco TIS2Web / TDS website subscription options / features.
The GM MDI (EL-47955) replaced the Tech2 as the J2534 dealership scan tool starting with the 2008 model year, though there was some overlap with existing models thru 2013 when the Tech2 was finally no longer supported for new vehicles. For new vehicle models introduced from 2010 and later, the MDI or MDI 2 are the only diagnostic and calibration programming tools utilized at your GM dealer.
The MDI is not compatible with the legacy DVD based TIS2000 and only works with Techline Connect online at , where you can use either SPS2 or the Global Diagnostic System (GDS) 2 online software. You can also subscribe to the Tech2Win software which is a Tech2 emulator for working on older vehicles in lieu of a physical Tech2 tool (though Tech2Win may have limitations or exceptions when working on earlier than model year 2007). Some sellers will include a bootable HDD for your laptop that preloads "cracked" versions Microsoft Windows 7 and older versions this GM software, usually just GDS2 and Tech2Win though. If you intend to purchase a ACDelco subscription, because you're a professional mechanic or just because these older cracked versions lack any of the latest SPS calibrations, you can always ask the seller to lower the price and omit the laptop HDD option. The Bosch MDI manager software, used to update the firmware inside of the MDI, is already free - see the download link later in this description.
The reviewed MDI knock-off / clone / replica tool has a S/N of 22129579 (all of them from this factory have the same serial number) and supports all Chevrolet, Buick, Cadillac, Oldsmobile, Pontiac, Saturn, GMC, Hummer, Opel, Vauxhall, Isuzu, Saab, Daewoo and Holden makes and models of the applicable years. In addition to the cosmetic MDI aspects I show in the video, it includes the WiFi adapter card option, and while not shown in the video internally it has the original MDI double stacked logic board design. Look for these attributes of the high quality clone when making your purchase decision. I purchased mine on eBay from a USA based seller (which is what I would always recommend on electronics so you get eBay's money back guarantee) after making sure the photos showed the WiFi as the removable card (if it doesn't have the removable WiFi adapter DO NOT BUY IT as it's not a high quality MDI clone) and the double stacked logic board design inside the blue plastic case. Low quality clones will often just stick a VXDiag nano inside the outer case which does not have MDI 100% parity (you can spot these because the WiFi is not via a removable card).
Here's a link to the MDI manager software from Bosch mentioned in the video:
_And if I've saved you some $$ here, consider some coins for the coffee tip-jar!_
_Disclaimer: DrShock, the alias for the human content creator for this YouTube channel, is not responsible for any damages, injuries, losses, or liabilities associated with any repairs, upgrades, or maintenance performed on yours, or any other, vehicle whatsoever. No warranty, express or implied, is made as to the accuracy or completeness of any information provided within this channel. Viewing and using the “as-is" information of this channel is totally at your own risk. Always wear personal protection equipment and follow appropriate vehicle manufacturer service manual guidelines with original manufacturer parts only when performing any repairs, upgrades, or maintenance upon any vehicle._
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