A Case For Keeping Legacy Tools Around
I went to a residence to program a vehicle. Being a Saturn I had sort of an unsure feeling. Sometimes Saturn can be a problem to program. This one was no different. I connected to program with my CarDaq M. The TIS 2 Web software read the VIN fine. Since this was a replacement ECU, I entered the correct VIN, went through the steps, answered all the questions and I get a severe error. Grrrr. OK, let us try Legacy Pass-Through with the Tech 2. Go through the process again and no joy. As a last ditch effort, I break out my TIS 2000 software. I then use it Legacy Pass-Through. This software gave me the missing information. "Use Red Connector When Programming This Module". This message was missing from the online version. Thanks AC Delco, you are real pals. I used the Red Connector and it went through fine using my 12 year old program and dongle.
What is the Red Connector? It is an OBDII connector put into the Tech 2. It was removed from the Bosch aftermarket kits back around 2010 to save cost. So if you have a Tech 2 and have this connector, you are lucky. Honestly, this is the first time I have had to use it since I got my Tech 2. Maybe you will never need it. I was surprised to see a Saturn that old still running. For you in the know, it would be interesting to find out more about this connector. Is it like the Ford and provides a voltage required for programming or is it a different protocol that GM only used on Saturn? I have attached a picture of the connector.
I have used that connector once, (or possibly twice to be really generous) to get proper communication with a saturn when using Tech2. I dont even remember which model and for a fact actually forgot about that connector. However when you are using Tech 2 for diagnosing and the communication seems to not be working... try that connector before diving into a no communication diagnosis. I never…
I wonder how well it would work if you went in under opel. I believe they are the manufacturers at least the early years. I'll see the next time I work on a saturn.
Michael very interesting - what error code did you receive? was it possibly E4399?? As i currently have a Saturn i have been unable to program and have been dealing/waiting for GM tech support to offer help they claim to be working on it still....
I did not know about the red connector.I still have the SPS disc with the service dongle that I used before tis to web.
Just had a Saturn last week and same issue . would read vin but when I selected a module it wouldn’t read . Just saw ur post and this post , so I’m thinking I wont be able to do this job I don’t have the red connector ..but mine was a 2005 but idk guess ima have to step away from it .. told him to come back since I was gonna try my tech 2 as a pass thru but guess it won’t work
I did one that was around that age. I had to choose update instead of install for the option. Once just update was chosen it worked.
I don't remember the exact code. Just the severe error part.
I remember that connector. I believe it stepped up voltage. I have also used my old cardaq plus. Definitely one of g m programming quirks. Suprised cardaq m won’t do it
I work at a Chrysler dealer. On some Chrysler/Dodge vehicles, from the mid 2000's, we have to use the old STARSCAN tool to initialize the ABS module(the vehicle has to be driven during the process). The Witech 2 has had problems completing the procedure. I keep all of the older scan tool cables, memory cards, etc.
Mike, I presume, with a meter, the red connector, and a regular connector, you could find the difference. I'm guessing some pins actually aren't wired to the cable, or one pin has a resistor to the cable (much like Snap-On personality keys). Of course, now I am wondering if I have one of those reds somewhere in my piles of things I never use. :-)
Hi Michael, According to James Garrido, who was a Saturn tech way back when - "When programming 1996 to 1999 Saturn S-cars you must use a special red DLC connector. It has a special 16V power supply in it." I, like you, have that red DLC connector. I haven't had the pleasure of using it though.
Good to have the straight scoop. Thanks Scott.