Programming Ourselves?

I sent an email to them for a quote, and they haven't get back to me yet.

 

Interesting.. It looks like a clone that works with Techstream software and other car manufacturers as well. Some bundle with a Windows XP tablet that connect wireless.

 

The ALLSCANNER appears to be an adaptor between the car and a PC, similar to the $500 Drewtech device. Additionally it has more local intelligence to work without a PC. The Techstream reference seems to be exactly that - a pointer to a description of the TIS Techstream. So if you've already got a Techstream, then the ALLSCANNER is a substitute for the Denso interface.

I think what they're implying is that their interface works on Toyotas if you use a PC and pirated Techstream software. They don't sell the Techstream. Drewtech seems a lot more honest about claiming that their device meets the interface standard used by Techstream.

EDIT: On second look, they do appear to actually offer a tablet PC with Techstream software. That implies that the Techstream software is sold through more outlets than just Toyota.

 

I went to pick up my car today and my dealership was trying charge one hr of labor to fix the setting I want and still refused to turn off the seat belt warning beep. So I told them it is ok then I will go home and do it myself. I am going to buy that mongoose mfc from eBay and maybe sell it back out for $400 after I finish with it. If anyone want to get it from me after i am done then pm me.

 

An hour is absurd. Shouldn't be more than 10 minutes or so, if that. I was in and out of my dealer to pick up my car in 45 minutes. They did the seatbelt and reverse beep change while I was there, as well as wash the car, and that time included have the sales person walk me through the car, sign the papers etc. No questions about it and no charge. I just told them what I wanted when I got there, handed them the section from the manual and that was it.

 

They said they at least charge an hour for anything that need to hook it up to the computer, so I guess when I want to ask them to activate the alarm for me would be the same cost. Then that means I am also paying $200 for it. I hope all the dealership can be the same as yours.

 

Some dealers do charge a "bench fee" when they hook up their computer to your car. For any reason. Still, charging for an hour is excessive. If they are going to do that, you ought to hit them with all your programming changes at the same time so you only pay once. I can rationalize some level of charge for future adjustments, but not to configure a new car.

 

I got the Mongoose MFC cable last night and got everything programmed to the way I want and also activated my alarm. It did took me about 1.5 hrs total for the whole process because of the settings. When you got your Mongoose MFC driver installed and run the Techstream with it, make sure you go to settings and pick the MFC cable. I didn't do that and took me 1hr to find out why it kept saying can't connect to the VIM error. I don't want anyone else took the long route like I did.

 

My Dealer said come back anytime I want and they will modify settings to my liking.... no charge.
I've taken them up on it once already.

I could see about the 5th time them saying "wait a minute".. otherwise, thats a formidable gesture of good will to have my loyalty.

Why go to a certain dealer for anything if they offer nothing?, otherwise.. lowest bidder wins.

 

hptsang,

Where and how much did you get your Mongoose MFC?

 

The issue of programming ourselves leaves many with the feeling they have to spend crazy money just to tweak a few items that they may never have to deal with again, and if so, it would be minor.

Few of use have the need to invest large sums of money to a once in a blue moon adjustment.

Not everyone reading this thread does this for a living nor has a desire to do it on a regular basis but is nevertheless curious to know how hard or easy it is, so its good to know that many dealers may simply do it as a goodwill gesture.

Anytime a bunch of people sit at a table and talk, there will be conversations that spark up and others may not be interested in them.

Did you get promoted to Moderator since the last time I reminded you were weren't a moderator?

 

I got it from ebay for $489 plus bing cash back so maybe around $450 and I already sold it and shipped my cable out for $407. My net cost is about $60 since paypal charges me transaction fee and my cost of shipping.

 

Toyota is now offering the Mongoose interface and a copy of Techstream. I'm rushed at the moment, but the lowest price offer seems to be a Mongoose at $495. The Techstream software is rented from TIS for $55 for two day access.

More info at http://techinfo.toyota.com

 

They are offering $445 introductory price for Mongoose MFC. I guess plus shipping fee and tax. It seems you'll have to wait 9 months after the launch as well.

http://www.equipmentsolutions.com/Forms/Toyota/Techstream LITE Flyer.pdf

 

I just saw this too - I wonder if it's the full Techstream software version, and will operate beyond the 2-days for the $55? (I wouldn't think you'd need to have internet access to run it (to confirm you paid for it, and are within the 2 days), but they could probably put in a "2-day trial period" type of lockout...)

 

I am looking to purchase my Prius tomorrow (and pick it up). I asked the salesperson for the backing beep programming change and the seatbelt programming change and he said that the backing beep change could be made (for approximately 1 hour service charge) but that he didn't think the seatbelt beep change could be made legally. Disappointing response.

I am wondering what other programming changes people have asked for as I would like to do all the changes at once if I am going to get charged for what should be a standard service. I've looked through the forums without success. Is there one list of programming changes that people have asked for/thought to ask for? Any help would be greatly appreciated.

 

I would buy from another dealer.
If they have no motivation to give service with a purchase pending, they certainly won't give you the time of day without paying dearly once they have your money.

My Dealer did mine twice and told me to come back anytime I needed more adjusting or if I changed my mind on features for no charge "because I bought it there".

I can see charging someone who did not buy their car there.
I sounds like your dealer has absolutely "no" service in mind.

Of course if you tell then why your taking your business elsewhere, then I'm sure they will bend over backwards to accommodate you.. but its too late then because their goodwill will only be temporary as they are only interested in themselves. Thier goodwill is really selfwill, or should I say "selfish".

If you want to give them the benefit of a doubt, ask to talk to the sales manager and ask if its their policy to charge for adjustments after purchase.

Part of purchasing a car is making sure it fit for your needs upon delivery.

I'm surprised they didn't charge you to wash it.... or did they?

Oh, I also got a full tank of gas upon delivery.

I guess some people have no faith in customers anymore to believe if they give customer service it will come back to them multiplied.

Sounds like you need to purchase from a small town dealer.

They think like big city dealers think.. your just another number and another few bucks in their pocket until they move onto the next and not a person.

If a dealer is not going to give you any perks... buy from a broker for much cheaper. You give them a 300.oo fee and get the car at wholesale.