Is there a tech stream easy button for less than $500? (1 Viewer)

[lx200inAR]

Google says v12 came out in 2017. Current version according to Toyota is v17. Sounds like a new V/Yr. I want to say the one I used on my 2013 GS was 12, so I would suspect that is new enough For a ’11. Seems like in the obdIi tools, the trans temp pid has been a moving target, wonder if it’s under a different system or something in Techstream. Sorry, don’t have any better thoughts than that. On my ‘10 LX I have 2 trans temp PIDs that work, one for pan and one for TC temp. At least in the obdIi tool. I have never verified seeing that in TS.

Have you seen this thread? Easier wat to get trans temps than techstream.

Thread 'DIY Smartphone Scan Gauge - OBD Fusion'
DIY Smartphone Scan Gauge - OBD Fusion - https://forum.ih8mud.com/threads/diy-smartphone-scan-gauge-obd-fusion.1269979/

 

[bloc]

I'm have issues with Techstream 12.20.024, getting into all data in a 200 series (2011LC currently).
I use it very often in 100 series, without any issues.

Anyone know what it may be. Is there a newer version of TS, that I must have for the 200 series?

What cable are you using?

 

[fanboy]

I'm running a VM on my Linux laptop, but would be happy to pay $100-ish for a Techstream laptop from your sweatshop. Please put me on the list. Thanks! Meanwhile, if any established forum members need the VM, I can try to get it to you.

 

[radman]

Sorry for the delay. We got a bunch of beaters ready to go, but I was pissed at the snail speed of the spinning hard disks (even for 100 bones). So then I made the little humans redo all the work with some ssds, and they made a lot of progress, but then squirrels.

I’ll try to get a batch finished up this weekend.

 

[2001LC]

Google says v12 came out in 2017. Current version according to Toyota is v17. Sounds like a new V/Yr. I want to say the one I used on my 2013 GS was 12, so I would suspect that is new enough For a ’11. Seems like in the obdIi tools, the trans temp pid has been a moving target, wonder if it’s under a different system or something in Techstream. Sorry, don’t have any better thoughts than that. On my ‘10 LX I have 2 trans temp PIDs that work, one for pan and one for TC temp. At least in the obdIi tool. I have never verified seeing that in TS.

Have you seen this thread? Easier wat to get trans temps than techstream.

Thread 'DIY Smartphone Scan Gauge - OBD Fusion'
DIY Smartphone Scan Gauge - OBD Fusion - https://forum.ih8mud.com/threads/diy-smartphone-scan-gauge-obd-fusion.1269979/

I also though my V12 (is how I read 12.20.024 as a V12), would be new enough.
In the 100 series ATF temp(s) is only under engine data. Isn't that the same place it's found in 200 series?

I couldn't see any others, than engine data to look under for ATF. It's engine data I can not open. I have been into AHC data with same setup (miniVCI, V and CPU) many times on 200 series, without issue.

I had not seen that thread, THX for linking it here. I read today.

What cable are you using?

I bought is as a V2 as at the time it was what was recommended in mud.

Does it look like the one I should be using?

I'm running a VM on my Linux laptop, but would be happy to pay $100-ish for a Techstream laptop from your sweatshop. Please put me on the list. Thanks! Meanwhile, if any established forum members need the VM, I can try to get it to you.

Where are you located?

 

[lx200inAR]

Seems like that cable should be fine, but considering source and nature of these cables, who knows?

Do you see other engine data in the "data list" properly? If you get nothing when you connect to "Engine and ECT", then it may be your cable. AHC is a different "bus", so the fact that it can read AHC data and not Engine data is possible.

Also, found this from a thread on doing a trans fluid change from the FSM (is this what you are doing in TS to find transmission temp?

4. FLUID TEMPERATURE CHECK

NOTICE:

The ATF temperature can be confirmed by using the Techstream.

(a) Turn the ignition switch off.

(b) Connect the Techstream to the DLC3.

(c) Turn the ignition switch to ON.

(d) Enter the following menus: Powertrain / Engine and ECT / Data List / A/T Oil Temperature 1.

(e) Check the ATF temperature.

NOTICE:

If the ATF temperature is above 48°C (118°F), turn the ignition switch off and wait until the fluid temperature drops to between 43 and 48°C (109 and 118°F).

 

[2001LC]

Seems like that cable should be fine, but considering source and nature of these cables, who knows?

Do you see other engine data in the "data list" properly? If you get nothing when you connect to "Engine and ECT", then it may be your cable. AHC is a different "bus", so the fact that it can read AHC data and not Engine data is possible.

Also, found this from a thread on doing a trans fluid change from the FSM (is this what you are doing in TS to find transmission temp?

I'll check for all data next time I hook up, later today. But I can say I see all in the 100 series, depending on year and model I see more or less. The 200 series, does show more data points, but all have Engine.

As for fluid temp check procedure outline. That is from FSM and is when using the Toyota SST CPU & cable. But I do basically the same IG off, hook up. But must bring up software on my PC and click on connect to vehicle with IG on. I can do this engine off or running, but must have IG on in all. Then A/T temp is in engine data. I know of no other place to find it?

 

[rlynch356]

If anyone wants one I have a Panasonic Toughbook with Techstream, and the Factory service manuals loaded up on it with cable.
I'm upgrading my garage computer so I'd have to just do all the installs again anyway,.


The tough book has 16gb ram, and an SSD HD, new battery - running windows 10, its not fast by any means though since the chip is pretty old.

$500 sounds good, shipped

 

[bloc]

I also though my V12 (is how I read 12.20.024 as a V12), would be new enough.
In the 100 series ATF temp(s) is only under engine data. Isn't that the same place it's found in 200 series?

I couldn't see any others, than engine data to look under for ATF. It's engine data I can not open. I have been into AHC data with same setup (miniVCI, V and CPU) many times on 200 series, without issue.

I had not seen that thread, THX for linking it here. I read today.


I bought is as a V2 as at the time it was what was recommended in mud.

Does it look like the one I should be using?

View attachment 3030327

Where are you located?

I couldn’t get that cable to work for TPMS or live engine data, but it would work for resetting codes and some other functions. All finally started going right when I got a VCX nano or whatever they are called.
Edit: everyone here that I’ve seen go for the VCX nano finally got everything working.

 

[fanboy]

Mongoose is the "authentic counterfeit" Techstream cable. Then the ones we buy for $50 or so are copies of copies of copies. They all look the same, but quality varies widely. I bought on Amazon, not eBay, and looked for an item with a lot of positive reviews and it ended up working fine (this was five years ago so I doubt the seller info would be of any use now). If you want to be really sure of getting a good cable, get the real Mongoose from Drew Technologies. $500, but still a lot cheaper than real Techstream.

 

[2001LC]

Seems like that cable should be fine, but considering source and nature of these cables, who knows?

Do you see other engine data in the "data list" properly? If you get nothing when you connect to "Engine and ECT", then it may be your cable. AHC is a different "bus", so the fact that it can read AHC data and not Engine data is possible.

Also, found this from a thread on doing a trans fluid change from the FSM (is this what you are doing in TS to find transmission temp?

I hook into tech stream again yesterday, in a 2011LC. Checking what other info in engine and ECT date I could read if any. I see all! I also opened a few other windows. All I did check, open and display data. Engine was not running.

Engine & ECT live, DATA: Fatal Error code 0xC0040001

Other screen in engine & ECT no problem bring up, also copen some of the other area in tech stream. No issue in any.

 

[2001LC]

Am I the first to have issue in just engine data of 200 series, with miniVCI running TechStream 12.20.024 or any version?

As stated above: I used this miniVCI, mostly running through Oralce VM Virtual Box, on XP 64 bit on a daily basis for years in the 98-07 LC & LX. I've also used on 200 series from 08-16, less frequently. It's worked for everything except engine data of 200 series.

 

[2001LC]

I couldn’t get that cable to work for TPMS or live engine data, but it would work for resetting codes and some other functions. All finally started going right when I got a VCX nano or whatever they are called.
Edit: everyone here that I’ve seen go for the VCX nano finally got everything working.

Pricey!

I did buy 2 different OBD2 bluetooth dongles yesterday, off Amazon with same day delivery. The OBDLinkMX+ and the VEEPEAK. I be giving both a try today.

I've used Bluedriver dongles for years, which I've 2 of. Whereas, I've just use it to reads and clear. I like how I can watch live data and log as long as I like on my iphone, and email the files for review. I use it daily to check for codes, clear and watch live engine data. They have been improving it, but have yet to include A/T Temp.
One of the dongle, the company gave me to test. I've been in contact with them on the issue of not offering A/T temp, for years. Yesterday they informed in an email:
"Hello Paul!
We have run into many delays with the trans temp sadly. That being said we have recently made some good moves with it and are actively testing the feature now! We still don't have a ETA, need to wait and see how the testing goes and if any issue pop up.
"

Mongoose is the "authentic counterfeit" Techstream cable. Then the ones we buy for $50 or so are copies of copies of copies. They all look the same, but quality varies widely. I bought on Amazon, not eBay, and looked for an item with a lot of positive reviews and it ended up working fine (this was five years ago so I doubt the seller info would be of any use now). If you want to be really sure of getting a good cable, get the real Mongoose from Drew Technologies. $500, but still a lot cheaper than real Techstream.

WOW if that is a sweet cable. I look into it!

I'd be inclined, if spending that kind of $$ To see if I could find the actual Toyota cables and CPU used. They have one hook-up function or so the Toyota training tells how to. That allows isolation and control of a single fuel inject.

 

[bloc]

Pricey!

I did buy 2 different OBD2 bluetooth dongles yesterday, off Amazon with same day delivery. The OBDLinkMX+ and the VEEPEAK. I be giving both a try today.

I've used Bluedriver dongles for years, which I've 2 of. Whereas, I've just use it to reads and clear. I like how I can watch live data and log as long as I like on my iphone, and email the files for review. I use it daily to check for codes, clear and watch live engine data. They have been improving it, but have yet to include A/T Temp.
One of the dongle, the company gave me to test. I've been in contact with them on the issue of not offering A/T temp, for years. Yesterday they informed in an email:
"Hello Paul!
We have run into many delays with the trans temp sadly. That being said we have recently made some good moves with it and are actively testing the feature now! We still don't have a ETA, need to wait and see how the testing goes and if any issue pop up.
"

WOW if that is a sweet cable. I look into it!

I'd be inclined, if spending that kind of $$ To see if I could find the actual Toyota cables and CPU used. They have one hook-up function or so the Toyota training tells how to. That allows isolation and control of a single fuel inject.

In talking about Bluetooth dongles you aren’t referring to techstream though, correct? I’ve used two different dongles with the OBDFusion app and had no issue with AT trans temps for either one.. interesting that company is having issues sorting it out.
Either way BT is definitely convenient and has growing utility but still not as powerful as techstream. For that reason I’m often torn on whether to bring the full laptop on my big trips trips or rely on the Bluetooth options.

 

[2001LC]

In talking about Bluetooth dongles you aren’t referring to techstream though, correct? I’ve used two different dongles with the OBDFusion app and had no issue with AT trans temps for either one.. interesting that company is having issues sorting it out.
Either way BT is definitely convenient and has growing utility but still not as powerful as techstream. For that reason I’m often torn on whether to bring the full laptop on my big trips trips or rely on the Bluetooth options.

I call:
The many, OBD2 blue tooth or wireless dongle(s) is just referring to a wireless device used to connect to the DLC2 port (OBD2 port ) under the dash. Use to read vehicle data stream (Tech Stream).
BlueDriver is a brad name (mfg) of a blue tooth enable dongle, which only it's mfg software (app) runs on.
MiniVCI is cable use to connect the DLC3 port (OBD2 port) to a PC via USB cable. So vehicle data can be read and changes (testing and altering default vehicle operation). TechStream; is software load on PC to read data and change.
Vehicle data, is (by me) often referred to as Tech Stream flow of info.

I may try the OBDFusion app, if any of my dongles allow me to use. I down loading app now. THX!

 

[bloc]

I call:
The many, OBD2 blue tooth or wireless dongle(s) is just referring to a wireless device used to connect to the DLC2 port (OBD2 port ) under the dash. Use to read vehicle data stream (Tech Stream).
BlueDriver is a brad name (mfg) of a blue tooth enable dongle, which only it's mfg software (app) runs on.
MiniVCI is cable use to connect the DLC2 port (OBD2 port) to a PC via USB cable. So vehicle data can be read and changes (testing and altering default vehicle operation). TechStream; is software load on PC to read data and change.
Vehicle data, is (by me) often referred to as Tech Stream flow of info.

I may try the OBDFusion app, if any of my dongles allow me to use. I down loading app now. THX!

I think I know what you were saying, just wanted it clear for others that so far we don’t have a way to use official Toyota Techstream software wirelessly via Bluetooth, at least not yet. And while things like OBDFusion can do a lot with resetting codes and even displaying live data, it can’t do many of the other things Techstream can, like initialize AC damper servos, TPMS programming, live data from modules other than ECU, and may not even be able to pull codes from other modules. Some things can do limited parts of this.. for instance carista pro app will allow you to program TPMS and I know from experience can reset SRS codes. But live data, the app won’t, even if you can use their dongle for it with OBDFusion.

Be sure to find teckis thread on OBDFusion.. once you get the PID pack for your year he has gauge formats you can import and save yourself a ton of work getting the “dashboard” set up in a usable format for towing or whatever. Linuxgod has written about this as well.

 

[2001LC]

So I did set up my new blue tooth dongle (OBDLINK MX+) and the recommended app on my iphone 11. Went on ~5 miles each way test drive to about 7:30PM, with stops at Hardware stores. OAT of 87F (down from 97F hot sunny day). I was able to see A/T temp 1 and 2. Great! Final read as I was parking back at my shop.

One thing I did not care for. Was the RPM reading jumping around a lot. In a is very smooth running engine. Seem to sensitive and distracting. I'll change to 0 decimals, see if that helps.

Now I need to look and see if I can retrieve the log of moment to moment readings for my files.

I would still like to find out why and hope to correct. My minVCI cable and/or software. I've used for years on 100 series. Will not read engine data in this 2011 (I suspect all 200 series).

 

[fanboy]

There's also this option: an Autel AP200 dongle for about $60 on Amazon, which lets you access most of what Techstream does, and certainly a lot more than the standard generic OBD2 readers. You can choose one car make for it to work with, and additional makes cost $22/brand/year. (I think "Toyota" works for Toyota and Lexus, as far as I remember.)

It works with phones and sometimes with tablets. It is very cumbersome to set up and use -- China product with the usual China product registration and anti-piracy run-arounds -- but it does have many good functions. I'd especially suggest this to someone who doesn't already have a spare laptop for Techstream.

I find laptop-based Techstream a lot less frustrating than this dongle, but it's good for taking on the road and checking/clearing codes in random parkng lots.

 

[2001LC]

TechStream for the shop, when servicing is a must. But just reading data and clearing DTC. The OBDlink MX + seems okay, provide I can log extended periods (yet to check). But I've used only for a few minutes, at this point. It was nice to see A/T temp, even when engine off. Setting transmission level is a PITA. Reading A/T temp is a must. Seeing what temp is before even starting up, save heating shop in summer needlessly. So plus 1 for OBDlink MX + and their recommended software.

I do like my Bluedriver (Been using ~6 yrs), and they've been improving function. But they've been slow to add data point (PID). They say they're now in Beta testing on A/T temp (about time).

 

[TechstreamChaos]

Sorry for the delay. We got a bunch of beaters ready to go, but I was pissed at the snail speed of the spinning hard disks (even for 100 bones). So then I made the little humans redo all the work with some ssds, and they made a lot of progress, but then squirrels.

I’ll try to get a batch finished up this weekend.

Radman, is your "volunteer" shop still doing
techstream laptops?
I've burned so many isos, (& a frew ova's)
and gotten expired warnings (at best), that I went to a cardiag plus,
but it's not clearing all of my ABS issues.

So... what's your basement price ?
PS Ventoy for ISO multiboot blows away anything I used in the past (!)

Thanks kindly!