Should I keep Techstream Kit?

I inadvertently ordered a Mini VCI J2534 from Amazon (it was sitting in the cart and ordered with some other things).

Originally was going to purchase it to try an enable my fog lights with high beams, but later found out Toyota doesn't have a setting for this. I thought it may be possible as I did this mod with my old Jeep years ago.

Now my dilemma is do I keep this and if so why? What kind of things do you guys do with this connection that makes it worth keeping?
I do have a OBDLink MX that I use for transmission temps and code reading. I know techstream can provide dealer level information, which could be worth something when dealing with a stealership.

Here is what I ordered

$90 Toyota Techstream Diagnostic Cable Mini VCI J2534 OBD Scanner V2.0.4 for Toyota Lexus TIS Techstream (Updated Version)

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07BCL3DFR/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

 

From a search I can find the following use cases.

• TPMS reprogramming
• New key/fob programming
• Seat belt chime disable
• Door chime disable
• Diagnostics
• ABS Bleeding
• Turn signal count

Like in this thread https://www.tundras.com/threads/programmable-features.40984/#post-1043536. I am looking for a list of things that can be done, not searching for random use cases that people have used Techstream. I don't think that provides an inclusive list of functions for Techstream. Trust me I don't mind researching myself as I did and now have a pretty extensive copy of software versions and documents. I just wanted to ask the community for input for things I may have missed.

I did find this list a week or so ago with my researching. I assume it would be up to date, but I'm not sure if it is. https://drive.google.com/file/d/1IF4v-PSNgJsFH9Um4sjnpU3FC8NHLv-l/view?usp=sharing

 

You got it from Amazon...they don't give bs hassle about returns, particularly if you're a Prime member. Send it back and get 100% of your money back (assumes it hasn't been too long). Yours is pricey, but it's the real deal, not an imposter.

 

Retired Toyota/Lexus Tech here. The hardware (cable and connector) won’t be your issue. The problem will be getting a clean version of Techstream installed on your computer. If you work at a dealer it’s not a problem but all of these aftermarket kits are hacking the software...be careful what you download as It will come loaded with viruses and malware...
IMO it’s not worth the risk and all the hassles that come with trying to get it to work right...I tried it a few years back and I did get it to work for a short spell but it crashed soon after...I used an old laptop with no personal info on it to minimize risk...
Maybe it’s better now but I doubt it. Just my personal experience..A simple code reader is adequate for most users.
Incidentally you can lease Techstream from Toyota legally but it’s expensive!

 

Yeah, spending the extra $30-35 didn't bother me too much. It was a newer firmware than the other ones and was also recommended and tested from another forum post that I had read.

Yeah, I've read quite a bit about side-loaded malware with some of the "free" versions. I work in Cybersecurty, so I'm not too worried about getting a virus and/or malware. Also from working in IT I have no shortage of spare laptops I can run this software on and disconnected from the internet. I'm confident with all the others that have gotten this to work I can as well.

Since you were a prior tech, what are some of the benefits from running Techstream over the OBD reader that I already have, besides the few that I had mentioned previously?

 

Not always true. I sent something back immediately and still got dinged fees for the return. It was a Prime order as well.

 

@OP, are you tracking this > DIY Fog Light Mod, would solve your need of having fogs on with High Beams.

 

Depends what option you pick as the reason for the return.

I did look at a post similar to this. I'm debating on whether to go this route or wire a plug in jumper from the high to the fogs.

 

If your Tundra really needs any of the things on the list in Post #3, it would be useful. If not, then I don't think the ordeal of trying to get it to run on certain OS, with certain bootleg files, getting the firmware that will work, with the latest version of Techstream is worth it. Some people get it to run with no problems, a lot of people never get these hacked versions to work. I'll wait until I really do have a real need to put myself through that.

 

The two sources I know have already been mentioned: Amazon and eBay. The problem is that with eBay, there are probably a dozen Chinese sources, and a couple of domestic. Results have been mixed with the eBay suppliers, even when you follow their instructions exactly.

The kit usually comes complete with connection cable and software, i.e. a CD, or an internet download link. With all hacked versions, you will get a virus warning if you haven't turned off your malware protection like they tell you to (What? You think I'm crazy?). So far, I have heard of no one actually getting a virus from these hacked versions, but like a previous poster warned, buyer beware. If I bought again, I would probably do the Amazon version like the OP. You can still get a bad product from Amazon, but they seem to vet sellers, and their review process pretty much insures that scammers won't last long at Amazon. I sent back the eBay version I ordered for full refund (promised in the description).

Some things I learned:
(1) It's important that you get a version that will run on 64mb lap tops; there are still sellers with 32mb versions that will not work on newer OS.

(2) The firmware version IS important as the OP implied. Get the 2.x.x version; the 1.4.x version does not seem to work on later cables.

(3) If you have a late model truck, get the latest Techstream version you can to insure that it covers 2018+. The software was up to 13.x.x.x last I checked. You would expect the hacked versions to be backward compatible, but some versions are not. When some people with older trucks tried to upgrade their Techsteam, they found the new hacked version wouldn't work for their old truck.

(4) Some suppliers have chat style support that has helped some buyers get it to run. Do I want to give a guy in China control of my computer?...not likely.

 

https://www.tundratalk.net/forums/t...techstream-software-thread-settings-such.html

 

I think that's one of the threads that directed me to that seller.

 

You can program additional keys and Tpms sensors. You also have a lot more diagnostic information available. I haven’t worked on Toyota’s since 98 and I was at Lexus till 2013. Similar but with more programming. Google searches and a simple code reader get me through most everything.