OBDII *BI-DIRECTIONAL* Scanner? Cheap?

[negusm]

I am looking into getting one. One that will actuate various devices. I think it is called "Mode $08", "Active Tests"?

Anyone have experience with a budget Scanner in like the $200 (or lower?) range that does that?

Tough to tease out if the various scanner models actually support that mode.

-Mike

 

[heat]

I think you're referring to Techstream software. There are major limits on
what it can do on the rather primitive 3rd gen system.
Some discussion of that.
Far as I know, OBD2 is read-only.

 

[Brian.]

I have Techstream and about the only "programming" it allows is with the immobilizer and keys. It's a diagnostic tool first and foremost, which is what a Toyota technician needs.

But there May be other "programmers" out there, which would be the bi-directional part. You're looking to make changes to the fuel/timing/injector maps I take it.. looking for performance of one kind or another (most want more power, some want more efficiency/fuel economy).

Looking around a little, I see that I'm wrong about Techstream, it can be used to flash/program, just not my model year. Looks like the ability doesn't exist on models earlier than 2001 (though I did see a Chineesium flash tool saying 2000... wonder if they mean a late 2000 model or a built in 2000, model year 2001 though).

Digging through more pages, I'm finding more and more posts talking about how Toyota ECU's can't be tuned. that if you want different performance, you have to go with a "piggyback" or completely replace the unit with something that is fully adjustable.

Regardless, if you find something, please post back to help others looking for the same thing.

 

[Rancho5]

I used this to auto bleed my 02 brakes, and the ABS unit. Not sure it’s what your looking for but it is bi-directional to a point.

https://www.amazon.com/FOXWELL-Scanner-Reader-Automotive-Diagnostic/dp/B07CSMJJK9

 

[cahilc]

I used this to auto bleed my 02 brakes, and the ABS unit. Not sure it’s what your looking for but it is bi-directional to a point.

https://www.amazon.com/FOXWELL-Scanner-Reader-Automotive-Diagnostic/dp/B07CSMJJK9

Subscribed...

How did it work bi-directional work for the ABS bleed? Straight forward?

Mode $08 activity test...
Some of the chinesium brand units (Launch, Autel, etc.) in past years have been bundling up factory auto software on an android platform and selling units. These are in the $800+ range. Very good functional stuff. Definitely not sub $200 range yet. Software liscence infringement? I'm not a legal eagle.

Couple customer software shops, HPTuners comes to mind, have been developing front end software to custom tune ECM's. Targeting Dodge, Ford, etc. Lions share of the market.

My gut, instinct, view is that way back deep in the Toyota proprietary fortress there was a way to tune these ECM's. Doubt we'd see that proprietary software released. But my hunch it existed back in the past.

As for a sub $200 bi-directional unit there's always used, 2nd hand, Craigslist, etc. But be wary of damaged stuff, software out of date, subscription lapse, etc.

Edit: Interesting read.
The 10 modes of OBDII | Search Autoparts

 

[negusm]

I think you're referring to Techstream software. There are major limits on
what it can do on the rather primitive 3rd gen system.
Some discussion of that.
Far as I know, OBD2 is read-only.

I just want to do things like turn the evap VSV valves off and on, maybe auto bleed the brakes and any other active tests.

You can do that stuff on the 2002 4Runner if you have a bi-directional scanner...just am unsure what to get.

Not looking to reprogram or flash ECUs.

-Mike

 

[negusm]

I used this to auto bleed my 02 brakes, and the ABS unit. Not sure it’s what your looking for but it is bi-directional to a point.

https://www.amazon.com/FOXWELL-Scanner-Reader-Automotive-Diagnostic/dp/B07CSMJJK9

I did see that. It's no longer made. Do you know what bi-directional functions for the '02 4Runner it has?

Looking to try and turn on/off the VSV valves and check internal pressure in the evap system like this guy does:

YouTube

-Mike

 

[Rancho5]

So I’m no mechanic. I have a great retired mechanic, current machinist, that works on my rig since I’m not inclined to do that much anymore. The auto bleed was pretty easy to figure out. Scroll, scroll, scroll, click. Like that. Not very straightforward but not utterly confusing either. Suprised it’s not available, I bought it like 2 weeks ago.

 

[toyotaspeed90]

I cant imagine theres anything better than Techstream for checking and testing components, but I'm intrigued.

I have a generic OBD2 bluetooth (and torque pro) for reading generic codes and real time data. I also have a 64 bit techstream.

There is 1 method of modifying the ecu that does work to increase performance, but you really need to know, and understand, what you're doing. However, its limited in the results (typically higher rpm and higher fuel output). Toyoalta ECUs arent based on an eprom, therefore you cannot reburn/flash the chip.

 

[ZOE]

foxwell nt530

I am looking into getting one. One that will actuate various devices. I think it is called "Mode $08", "Active Tests"?

Anyone have experience with a budget Scanner in like the $200 (or lower?) range that does that?

Tough to tease out if the various scanner models actually support that mode.

-Mike

Foxwell nt530 is able to operate bi-directonal test for your car.