Techstream alternatives

Let me start off by saying that I tried, I really did to get Techstream working on my old Windows 7 laptop. I watch videos, downloaded the latest software updates and just about got it where it would function, but right before I thought I was good to go, it came up with a software bug that I have not been able to get past after weeks of trying (that's another story altogether).

Anyway, I was reading something on here a while back that said there might be a new and better tool out there that can do the same thing Techstream can do as far as changing vehicle settings, but with none of the software hassle that you get when trying to get a pirated copy of TS to function on an old laptop .

Can anyone shed any light on what new technology might be available these days as a good, economical TS substitute? Much appreciated.

 

Toyota doesnt use techstream anymore. It’s GTS+ now. It’s geo locked so it can only be used at a toyota dealer. That’s the message I got from a Toyota mechanic. I’m also looking for Techstream so I can program my key card.

 

I use GTS+ and I’m 30miles from any dealership. It’s not geo locked at all as I’ve been all over using it. At $1500 a year, it’s not worth it for someone who will only use a handful of times.

 

That's what I am afraid of.

 

I've had success with techstream V18.00.008 with the tatrix open port 2.0. The installer file seems to be easily findable via google search.

I've had success with a china clone tatrix as long as it works with the standard drivers that are provided by tatrix. The other MINI VCI adapters are junk, and reqire skechy drivers. Even if you get it work, they often are too slow data transfer and often disconnect/error out. The Tatrix and tatrix clones work the best.

After installing, launch the techstream shortcut created, cancel and "registration" screens so you get to the main menu.
The only thing to do here is to goto setup and then select VIM select, and pick your J2534 device.
Then exit out of that.

Use explorer to find c:\program files(x86)\toyota dianostics\techstream\bin\techstream.exe

Rightclick that and sent to > desktop (create Shortcut)

Find the new shortcut on the desktop, right click and select properties. In the target feild. Scroll all the way to the end.

It should end with techstream.exe" add /1 to the end of the target field

It should look like "C:\program files(x86)\Toyota Diaganostics\Techstream\bin\techstream.exe" /1

note the /1 is added outside the " "

Plug in your j2534 device, power on the truck, and then click on new new modified techsteram shortcut you created.

This should launch you straight into the scantool portion. Its best not be connected to the internet, but if you are just select offline mode when prompted.

You can't use anything outside the scantool porotion without a valid registration still. But it works for a lot of things.

All of the above can be done without any windows warnings or needing to disable antivirus, and even works on windows 11 fine.

The tatrix open port 2.0 also works fine with GTS+, although its not offically supported device from toyota.

 

As far as non-techstream alternatives, I have a xtool D7 thats pretty reasonable. It can talk to all the computers, read all the toyota oem pids in each computer. It has many of the special functions, but doesn't have the customization options (Like chaning the door chimes, ESE (Fake engine noise) etc. But it is quite a bit faster than techstream so its my goto if I want to clear codes, or read/log data.

 

What exactly are you needing techstream for? I wanted to change seatbelt chimes on mine and got Carista, did a 1 month membership and eliminated the seatbelt chimes on 3 Toyotas, tweaked a couple other settings too but can’t remember which.

 

Just FYI, you can buy a 2 day license for $70. Cheap if you already have the tool to connect to the OBD2/DLC.

I can also confirm GTS+ is not geolocked (used it throughout New England, never at a dealer) and it has an offline mode.

 

Are we allowed to download the GTS+ software? If so, from where?

 

Techinfo.toyota.com

Create a new account/first time user.

 

Thanks

 

I use the Professional Diagnostic version for 70.

 

I’m curious whether anyone has tried the Xtool D7 the car care nut raves about (other than battery life).

https://youtu.be/1tUBSwsZjU8?feature=shared

 

Mongoose style cable with Techstream V18 from aliexpress works on 2025 sequoia.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5p9UmBVoFeU&t

 

I used gts+ today in my garage. Got the $70 professional license and used the xhorse mcvi pro cable. I poked around and it seemed to be working but every time I tried to reset my fuel density it kept failing. Don’t know if it’s the cable or something else.