GM MDi 2

[duramaxnate]

Just came across this today, not sure how long its been out.


Its only $750 from this link..
https://gmtoolsandequipment.com/en-US/Pages/ItemDetail.aspx?SKU=EL-52100-AM

I'm seriously thinking about adding this to my collection.

It looks like unlike the original MDI it can scan all GM vehicles from OBDII onward. Im still going to keep my tech2 on hand but I might be able to but my MDi1 in the closet.

Might order it within the next couple of weeks.

 

[rgullett83]

I haven't used an MDI 2, but I use my MDI regularly through my wifi in the shop. Only advantage I can see is Bluetooth capability, but I haven't looked at the specs real close either

Sent from my SM-G900V using Tapatalk

 

[duratothemax]

meh, Ill wait for the knock-offs to arrive, and pick one up for $150. :rofl:

My Tech 2 is genuine, but my CANdi module and MDI are both knockoffs, and they work perfectly. My cheap knockoff CANdi module is going on 10 years old actually.

 

[duramaxnate]

Both my tech 2s are knock offs and my MDi. Do you know how new the MDi2 is? I saw it literally last week start popping up.

 

[duratothemax]

Both my tech 2s are knock offs and my MDi. Do you know how new the MDi2 is? I saw it literally last week start popping up.

GM is moving towards encrypted flashing (5 byte seed/key stored in the cloud, not locally in the scan tool), and also they are overhauling the communications architecture of all new vehicles as quickly as possible, to protect against the threat of cyber attacks via the Onstar module's cell phone or wifi networks.

The K2xx trucks/SUVs are getting this for the 2017 MY. They are adding hardware firewalls/databus gateway modules, keeping the powertrain/chassis/safety-critical components on separate busses from the "vulnerable" bus, which would be what the onstar module and HMI module are on. So theoretically, if someone attacked via wireless, the worst they could do is disable Onstar and change the radio to howard stern when your kids are in the car.

I dont know if they've also gone to encrypted CAN yet, but if not yet, it is right around the corner.

The MDI was designed long before all of this new technology, so just like the Tech 2, they had to retire it and replace it with something (MDI-2) that is compatible with the new bus architecture.

So as far as "how it is"....its probably no different and no fancier than the MDI. The MDI-2 just has the new hardware and software inside to work with the latest vehicles. And I guess now it also has bluetooth and a more durable case, but whatever. I wouldnt even consider running out and buying an MDI-2 unless you start working on vehicles that specifically require it.

Ben

 

[pizza pig]

So theoretically, if someone attacked via wireless, the worst they could do is disable Onstar and change the radio to howard stern when your kids are in the car.

:spit::rofl::rofl::rofl::rofl:

 

[catman3126]

What can the MDi do what is its purpose?

 

[duratothemax]

What can the MDi do what is its purpose?

It is/was the replacement for the Tech 2. The Tech 2 only works on vehicles up to 2012-2013ish.

The Tech 2 wont work on the GM Global-A electrical architecture. So that means 2010+ camaro, caddy SRX, 2014+ impala, 2010+ equinox, 2014/2015+ full size trucks/SUV's, etc.

So if you want to work on those newer Global-A vehicles, you HAVE to have an MDI. If you only work on older vehicles, a Tech 2 will work fine. For the older vehicles that are supported by the Tech 2, its not like an MDI will do anything "special" over a Tech 2.

Well, the MDI is much faster at reflashing modules than a Tech 2, thats an advantage. It might take 10 minutes to reflash a TCM with a Tech 2, and an MDI will do it in 2 minutes.

But the MDI is annoying in that you have to drag around a laptop; its not "standalone" like a Tech 2.

 

[c20elephant]

Friend of mine has both an MDI and TECH-II clones, the MDI is a pain in the butt like Ben said as you have to use a laptop. Still trying to talk him into selling me his TECH-II as I only need it for my 2006 Duramax.

I used his TECH-II to cycle the ABS controller when I installed new brake hoses, what a difference in braking performance and the transmission shifted a touch different afterwards.....