So I've been looking around for some software to help diagnose my cobalt (luckily I don't need it yet) but I'm also interested in learning about data logging, and everything that comes along with it. I've found several different companies that offer software, but haven't ever heard of any of them before. Also, I read on here somewhere that trifecta offers something similar?


Any one with any input, suggestions would be awesome. Anyone use any software like this?

 

hp tuners?

 

MSD Dashhawk...

 

Trifecta does have a logging capability, but only Vince can read them. It's one of the main downsides to Trifecta in my opinion. As a dealer, I'm asked a lot if I can see the logs of if I can check them. The short answer is no, I can't view the logs made with the Trifecta software. On the other hand, I can use HPTuners or my Dashdaq to log though.

On the bright side, Vince is located out in your general area, out in Duvall, WA. He'd probably be able to make quick work of any of your tuning/logging needs.

 

Is it possible to just get the cable and software from Dashhawk so I can just use my laptop instead of the unit?

I check the website and couldn't find an answer. Figured I'd ask here before I email them.

 

hptuners offers what I think I may be looking for.

I'm not really looking for a handheld, like MSD. The VCM scanner from HPtuners looked pretty awesome. I'll have to read about it some more, possibly get that when I'm ready to buy.

 

It looks like Dashhawk is the unit. Don't think their is laptop software for it. But I could be mistaken.

Anyone use the VCM scanner? The only thing I'm unsure of with that is the licensing and credits thing.

You need to buy credits from HPT to read cars? Or is that just with tuning them. Also, it doesn't list 05 cobalts with the 2.2 for compatibility, but lists the cavilar 2.2. Going to make a difference?

 

HP Tuners can scan the older 2.2's but can't tune them. Scanning is free, tuning costs credits. The new BETA version of HPT and the final release will support scanning of a ton of different cars, including foreign cars and such.

 

yeah, i'm not looking to have them scan my car. I'm looking to buy the vcm scanner from them. But I would want it to work with my car. And I wasn't sure if I'd have to buy credits is use in on other cars and such. Or if that was strickly for tuning cars with the VCM suite.

 

I think you're confusing the terminology here... HP Tuners themselves won't do anything for you...

You do the stuff yourself.

They sell 3 products I believe.

VCM Scanner - ODBII scanner on steroids - Scans only, no credits needed for anything

VCM Suite - VCM Scanner and VCM Editor - Scans and tunes (uses credits), box has no inputs

VCM Suite Pro - VCM Scanner and VCM Editor - Scans and tunes (uses credits), box has 5v inputs for widebands, etc

If you want to be able to do the whole shebang, get the Pro setup. It's $650 unless you can find it used from someone cheaper.

 

ok, I'm not looking to tune at this time. Although, it would be pretty interesting to get into. But a bit over my head. Thanks for all your help man.

 

No problem. Just know that buying only the scanner will limit you. If you think you might want to tune in the future, buying the whole thing now will save you money overall, and it will also have a higher resale if you want to get rid of it.

 

HPTuners standard MPVI...you wont be diappointed i assure you

and with the latest beta release i have been able to scan many vehicles that they list as not supported including suburus and porche

 

Japeatr- HPTuners standard MPVI - that is the VCM scanner? Or is that something different.

I was thinking about getting the VCM suite but 600 bucks is a bit to throw down right now for it. Also have to get a laptop if I'm going to do this. lol