GM MDI or Tech 2 Which one should I choose

Looking for a GM MDI interface or Tech 2 Scanner and don’t know which one (original or clone) should you take?

Here you go.

Part 1: GM MDI or Tech 2

Part 2: Tech 2 original or clone?

– How to find the original or fake.

– worth to have a Tech 2 China clone?

Part 3: GM MDI genuine or fake?

– what’s the difference of MDI genuine & clone?

– GM MDI china clone any good?

Part 1: GM MDI or Tech 2

Tech 2 scan tool has become obsolete for shop use as of late. It still has a lot of capability and will do anything you need for the older platforms but it needs the CANdi module to work with any of the new stuff. The MDI is a 1 shot deal for all the newer PCMs and will still work on the older stuff too. I sold my Tech 2 and bought an MDI last year, haven’t missed the Tech 2 since. Then again I’ve got a Genysis scanner I use for all my typical diagnostics & probing.

However, the MDI requires a GM log-in with monthly access to GM’s website. That’s it’s only draw back for the enthusiast who wants a GM caliber scanner. The Tech 2 can be updated within itself and doesn’t require the internet, the MDI does.

If you’re running a shop, get an MDI. For the garage warrior or enthusiast, get a Tech 2. Just don’t fall for these $350 pieces of garbage.

You can say that, Tech2win is a pain the the butt. It never updates security correctly for the 30 day window and that using GM computers and login info. The tech 2 is great for code reading, viewing data. The MDI is pretty much only used for programming but its needs on certain 10+ platforms and all 15+ to view data through GDS. All MDI functions require a GM subscription.

Part 2: Tech 2 original or clone?

First, How to find the original or fake.

It is very simple. The first thing I look, it’s the memory card slot, open it up and look at the cover, if you see the stamp of the body exactly original. Next, the original at all wires and Candy use aluminum. As different numbers on the back cover, the photo you will see the difference. Sometimes it comes and all labels need to glue yourself.

Second, worth to have a Tech 2 China clone?

In short, that is a nice piece of equipment to have, very nice!

Aside from working beautifully with OBD2, the tech2 is the scanner for GM OBD1 to use. with the right software (plug in chips like nintendo cartridges) it’ll do some daewoo/suzuki, GM medium duty (meaning bigger than 3500 using non automotive OBD2 standards), and other in the GMdistant family tree too.

In addition to generic codes (P0000-P0999) It’ll do all the proprietary GM codes (P1xxx), actuators, and systems. you can also view fuel trims, emissions readyness (beyond a green LED for all OK) and It’ll talk to ALL the modules rather than just the ECM (and if you get into the $250+scanners, ABS) like BCM, SIR, entertainment, EVERYTHING on a GM. At school I used one with a 91+ cartridge on my 87 S10, so going back further is hit or miss but posible.

To adjust shift points and fuel consumptiona and Speedo, forget it.

The TECH2 can’t do any sort of modding/tuning, only upload GM flashes. At least with legitimate software. I’m sure someone has custom software to do it but there are easier ways nowadays.

Is it worth if you just want to read/clear codes on your own car once in a while, heck no. If you’re doing a lot of work on GMs or want to get a lot more in depth with your car, it’s worth the money.

No comment on China knockoff quality, I mean a working tech2, Chinese made or not.

Reviews talk a lot. Use with relief.

Part 3: GM MDI genuine or fake?

First, what’s the difference?

Product	GM MDI	GM MDI 2
Photo
Price	$200 or so   (HQ clone)	$1200 or so   (genuine)
WiFi	YesGm mdi clones have USB & WIFI versions	Yes
Running speed	Fast	Faster
Update	YES	YES
Operation system	Windows 7 64bit	Unknown
Software	Global TISGDS2 Tech 2 Win	Global TISGDS2 Tech 2 Win
OBDII Diagnostics	Yes	Yes
ECU Programming	Yes	Yes
Key Programming	Yes	Yes
Pass-Thru Programming	Yes	Yes
Vehicle	Vauxhall Opel, Buick, Chevrolet1996-2017	Vauxhall Opel, Buick, Chevrolet1996-2017-future

Therefore, it’s easy to find that the GM MDI 2 multiple diagnostic interface only improves in hardware design and running speed.

This is a chart of GM Multiple diagnostic interface comparison: GM MDI 1 vs. GM MDI 2 kit.

But the price ($1200) of MDI 2 is 4 or 6 times as MDI 1 ($150-$300).

So, no matter it’s used for DIY fun or professional repair work, a GM MDI clone of high quality is definitely no issues. Note that there are different versions of GM MDI china clone; and the quality may vary coz they are produced in different factory, especially PCB design. And it would result in various prices. But you will get what you pay for.

Second, GM MDI china clone any good?

GM MDI China clone Working well. Tested with GDS2 v.12.

Device works with GDS2 (Opel).
Device works with Tech2Win. (Opel, Hammer)
Device not works with SAAB via Tech2Win.

Price: USD259 + shipping cost(based on your country)

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The MDI came ready to use with the software installed. It worked since I already had Tech2Win, GDS2 and GM MDI Manager installed on my laptop. It works extremely well and I have no problems with it. The product image at the time I order showed the cable keeper, A/C 12 volt adapter and multiple diagnostic interface user’s guide CD which is used to install the MDI manager software on your laptop. These items were not included. It also said it was Wifi but did not come with a wireless card but with a wireless interface instead. There are two versions of GM MDI interface on China market, cheaper MDI less than US$180 with only USB connection and the other more expensive with wifi wireless connection.

The product would work excellent if you had the MDI manager software already on your laptop.

My device tested with many cars for 4 months.
Device works with GDS2 (Opel).
Device works with Tech2Win. (Opel, Hammer)

Device not works with SAAB via Tech2Win.

Tested by my own, works with Saab 9-5, 2003, 3.0
It works with tis2000 and tech2win NAO.

My MDI clone works fine with tech2win and also TIS2000 software. Used it for diags and pcm flashing with no problem (through usb port only, cause wifi is unstable for programming functions).

Added a wireless card to that one too, same flawless performance.. Only issue for me is that they all have the same serial number.. So using 2 of them in the same shop with wireless would be impossible..

compared boards from a genuine to this clone, almost identical.. multiple layer pcbs, same tracers, didn’t see any difference except the board labeling was missing on the clone.
Wifi GM mdi good, interface works online. update mdi 100%. offline not that good for new cars.

Nissan Consult III Plus works on MDI interface as well (this is not tested by me, your are on your risk).

Need help on selecting GM MDI or Tech 2

Post by i6pwr:

For my 2002 GMC SUV as well as other mid 2000’s GM vehicles, I’m ready to purchase either of the above mentioned. My thoughts are with a Tech 2, I have an all-in-one unit, but the MDI gives me options down tne road especially with our 2014 Toyota.

I’m fine with just a Tech 2 Scanner for the 2002 GMC for time being, but if I go with the MDI, would a regular Win 10 laptop work?

There are so many options I’m not sure where to start, mainly with options. I hear that some overseas sellers may not be the best choice due to customs.

I’m looking to try to stay under $500 for either setup if possible. Anyone who has been down this road, all input and criticism welcome.

Reply by Timmastertech:

As far as scan functions for your vehicle, tech2win is the software package, the MDI is the interface. Without a subscription the MDI is a nice looking paperweight. Global platform GM vehicles (starts with Camaro in 2010 and was all vehicles by 2014) use GDS2 with the MDI. Programming for any of the above is done with an SPS subscription and an interface. GM products that have a class 2 data bus (anything pre-can) does not program well with an MDI/MDI 2 or modern J2534 device. Programming using the tech 2 as the interface is the only reliable way.

A handheld Tech 2 with candi module covers scan functionality on all GM from 1992 to 2009 and all non-global vehicles to 2013. New legit from Bosch they are in the 4500 ballpark and used around 2000. ANything cheaper is a chinese knockoff that may or may not work.

For scan only, there is no reason you need an MDI. A Cardaq M or Cardaq plus 3 works just fine and can also be used as an interface for Toyota Techstream for your toyota.

As far as a laptop. Win 10 is the only OS that GM supports anymore. Here is a link to the PC requirements https://gsi.ext.gm.com/userguides/Aftermarket Infrastructure Guideline v1.0.pdf

How to install tech2 software on VXDIAG VCX Nano for 2003 GMC Sierra diagnosis

One user has a 2003 GMC Sierra HD Diesel 2500 4×4 to test the airbag sensor. But has no idea how to install
Tech 2 software on VXDIAG VCX Nano to troubleshoot, and don’t know what files can help confirm what cables are compatible with the car.

Here attach 5 diagnosing images:

OBD2TOOL engineer solution: please watch this Youtube video on how to install tech2 software on VXDIAG VCX Nano

Should I buy GM MDI instead of Tech 2 clone

The Tech2 clone is definitely fine, but I think people looking for a good tool now should really look at an MDI clone instead.

The Future of the Tech 2

The Tech 2 remains an essential tool through at least the 2010 model year. The GM MDI will not support past models when its diagnostic capabilities are introduced. And, the Tech2 will continue to be needed to diagnose all vehicles fromprevious model years. Remote programming with the Tech 2 will continue to be supported for use on all 2007 and previous vehicles.Additional information will be supplied in future.

HOW WILL THE G-M MDI BE USED?

The new G-M MDI can be used only in the Pass-Thru method. This means you can use it as your programming tool, while your Tech 2/CANdi remains available for diagnostics and other duties.

I have issues with it, however:

The GM MDI will not support past models when its diagnostic capabilities are introduced.
I’m not sure what this means. The GM MDI WILL clearly support past model years with the Tech2win applications. So I’m not sure what this statement actually means. The only thing I can think of is that GM will remove pass thru support at a later date, but since its all been cracked already, this shouldn’t matter.

The new G-M MDI can be used only in the Pass-Thru method. This means you can use it as your programming tool, while your Tech 2/CANdi remains available for diagnostics and other duties.
This statement implies that the pass thru method is a bad thing. Considering the Tech2win application works perfectly with EVERY function on all GM vehicles as far back as 1996, I don’t understand what this is really saying. It implies that you can’t do diagnostic troubleshooting using pass-thru, when in fact you can.

As far as I can tell from my testing, this is a basic sales pitch in order to encourage people to keep the Tech2 as well as purchase a MDI2 unit – both of which are incredibly expensive if purchased legitimately through GM.

In reality, you don’t need a  Obd2 scan tool Tech2 and a MDI2. An MDI interface is more than enough especially on our older cars like the C5 corvette which GM will unlikely ever release further PCM upgrades for given the fact they were discontinued over 10 years ago.