J2534 and diagnostics: what you need to know

Last month, presenters from Toyota, General Motors, Volkswagen and NASTF provided demonstrations of diagnostic capabilities using J2534 in a webinar that's now available for on-demand viewing on VehicleServicePros.com. The webinar, entitled "J2534 and diagnostics: what you need to know," also included a live Q&A session, where presenters interacted with attendees and answered several questions about and related to J2534.

Here are some of the questions and answers from that session: 

Are all J2534 devices the same?

Brian Herron - Drew Tech: No. You need to make sure that the J2534 device you are purchasing is compliant to both J2534-1 and J2534-2. You also want to pick a tool that is validated by the OEM that you want to work with. Lastly, make sure you choose a tool that comes with good tech support. Some OEMs don't offer a phone number for tech support.

Can most advanced driver assistance systems be accesses and reflashed/reprogramed with J2534?

Bob Augustine - CBAC: It depends on the OEM. Yes for GM and Ford. Most others, the answer is no because they are not flash ECUs.

What is an optimum internet speed for service programming?

Augustine: Any high-speed internet will be fine (DSL, cable, T1, etc.).

What about reprogramming while using a wireless internet connection?

Augustine: WiFI is fine, because programming is not done directly from the server. The file is cached locally on the HDD. We are not fans of wireless tools doing programming from the router, such as a GM MDI or Chrysler wiTECH. That is fine for diagnostics, but you should hard wire when programming to eliminate that potential of signal interruption during programming.

On what other makes can you use the J2534 device for OEM diagnostics?

Herron: Currently, Volkswagen/Audi, BMW/Mini, General Motors, Jaguar/Land Rover, Lexus/Toyota and Volvo. More are coming!

How can I tell if I have a J2534-1 or a J2534-2 box?

Herron: You can look up the model and visit the manufacturer's website. Because there are many different options for J2534-2, you may want to look and see that your box supports the features you need. Examples of J2534-2 features are: Diag-h for Honda, TP 2.0 for VW, Single Wire CAN for GM and pin switching for many makes.

What is the status of OEM validation of J2534 devices? Do OEMs still do it? What is the history of OEM validation? Is it possible that a J2534 will work fine even though it's not listed on an OEM site?

Herron: Some OEMs validate, while others do not. While it's ideal to get a device that has been validated by an OEM, it is not required. The biggest benefit is that the OEM generally offers more tech support if a validated device is used.

Is there a way to access OEM diagnostic information and module updates through one central location or website? Do we need to subscribe to each manufacturer?

Herron: You can visit nastf.org for a list of websites. However you will need to create accounts for each OEM website and download separate software. If you are a Drew Technologies customer, you can also use the J2534 toolbox for websites, frequently-asked questions, help videos and tech support.

The webinar, "J2534 and diagnostics: what you need to know," was sponsored by Drew Technologies and LAUNCH. For more information or to view the webinar, click here.