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I've been researching Toyota diagnostic connectors, and ran across something called a Mini VCI adaptor meant for use with Toyota's TechStream software. The physical interface looks like a standard OBDII and according to this advertisement it supports the following protocols:

  • K-Line ISO 9141
  • KWP 2000 ISO 14230-4
  • SAE J1850 PWM
  • SAE J1850 VPW
  • CAN 2.0B ISO 11898
  • CAN ISO 15765-4

On the face, this just looks like a standard OBDII adapter. Am I missing something? Couldn't I just use a standard OBDII adapter with the TechStream software?

Robert S. Barnes
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  • Well, it works with standard protocols, so I don't see why not as long as the protocol for your car is supported by the cable you choose. Probably just a rebranded standard cable. – I have no idea what I'm doing Jun 02 '16 at 14:01
  • I tried to use a standard OBDII USB and it wouldn't connect using the software so I'm assuming that the OBDII USB cable needs to be a Mini VCI J2534. – Ed Hotin Feb 12 '18 at 02:26

2 Answers2

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It looks like it's a J2534 device. These support reflashing with the proper software. I've used the OpenPort 2.0 another J2534 device with the TechStream software before I assume this is the same just made in China.

Generic OBD2 cables don't support reflashing as they're missing the necessary chip.

Robert S. Barnes
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Ben
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  • So if I'm not planning on reflashing any ECU proms, I could just use a standard OBDII adapter with the TechStream software? – Robert S. Barnes Jun 02 '16 at 19:15
  • @RobertS.Barnes I believe it has to be J2534 compatible. This website https://obdtoolshop.wordpress.com/2015/07/08/toyota-tis-techstream-which-cable-is-the-best/ shows the Mini VCI cable you mentioned as confirmed to work with TechStream. – Ben Jun 02 '16 at 19:41
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Only copied Toyota Techstream software (latest Ver. 12.30.017) works with Mini VCI J2534 pass-thru. I don't think original Techstream can work on clone cable. But the clone cable and Techstream crack does work. Not bad, I can change things on my 4runner very easily. As a note, which is not specified anywhere else that I have seen, you can perform a Zero Point Calibration using this tool, I had some issues with VSC lights coming on, and was able to do the ZPC with this and cleared them out. I would recommend this tool to anyone who owns a Toyota vehicle. I am not sure what models it works for buy I know Tacoma and 4runner are supported.

EJ Lewis
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