Documentation DVD and scanner review:
I’ve tried to post this information in a new thread several times and I continue to get messages that my post won’t be visible until reviewed by a moderator. That apparently hasn’t happened either, so I’m going to try and add it here as another reply to this existing thread. If I’ve offended anyone or broken any rules, I apologize in advance.
I mentioned earlier in this thread that I’d bought a documentation DVD and a scanner I hoped would allow access to the proprietary GM systems, primarily the folding top controller (FTC).
I bought one of these DVD's for the documentation:
https://www.ebay.com/itm/Pontiac-G6...e=STRK:MEBIDX:IT&_trksid=p2060353.m2749.l2649
Unfortunately, the GM Tech2 scanner was not affordable for me. After researching and questioning the vendor, I decided to take a risk on one of these scanners:
https://www.ebay.com/itm/GM-General...e=STRK:MEBIDX:IT&_trksid=p2060353.m2749.l2649
I’ve now had both for a while and have had time to see if they would be suitable, particularly for a retractable owner. Here’s a brief review.
The documentation DVD: I bought this first and installed it on a laptop that was capable of running it. Be advised to pay attention to the system requirements. It installs a non-commercial copy of VMWare and runs the software in a virtual instance of Windows XP. (Don’t forget how old this stuff is.) This is real GM documentation as written for the technician using GM tools and training. If you’re mechanical and competent with current automotive technology, you’ll be okay. But realize this isn’t intended for the novice. On the up side, everything that ever happened to the G6’s is here and even better, all the embedded links that take you to related topics work! It may be overkill for the casual owner who just wants to maintain his/her G6, but those personalities who crave information (and therefore overkill) will eat it up. Even though current GM documentation with its cryptic line drawings leaves me a little cold, it’s still possible to see what you need. Printing from the tool is a little fiddly and Windows has its usual quirks, but it does work. (Tip: When you end the VM session as in shutting down the computer, choose “Suspend” so it saves where you were and doesn’t have to go through as many hoops when you load it next time. If Windows won’t boot within the VM next time, choose “Last known configuration that worked” and it should go back to where you were.)
The scanner: I was really skeptical that this scanner would live up to the promises, but I was surprised. The model I bought was GM only, but there are models for other makes and even top-line models that cover all makes. It’s even updatable (through subscription) so additional years can be loaded into it. This one I bought covers GM vehicles through 2016 so that covers all G6’s and I don’t plan any other purchases and I shouldn’t have to update it.
The setup is simple and it’s quite intuitive to use. (Good thing since the user manual is back-level.) Once connected, you can choose to have it scan your vehicle for all controllers that exist or you can manually input the vehicle information from a representative list. I’ve done it both ways. It sometimes takes a few moments to connect and communicate and you might not get immediate feedback, but ultimately I was able to reach everything (and there’s a LOT.) A few times it told me that it couldn’t communicate, but backing out and trying again always got me there eventually. Patience is always advised and it’s no big deal if you want to unplug it and start over (I’ve done this too). It has all the usual functions like reading and clearing the DTC’s. But for all the proprietary GM systems and operations it really shows it usefulness. And specifically for retractable owners, it DOES communicate with the FTC (Folding Top Controller) and the information it holds regarding the current state of switches and controls is very interesting. (One item the FTC is supposed to report is the number of cycles the top has completed from day one. On my car, that count was “0” and I don’t know why. I’ll keep an eye on it to see if it changes.) Many of the controllers have special functions that are also very useful (like remote fob programming). Another example is that you can access a function through the BCM (Body Control Module) that will override the FTC and release the trunk solenoid for you without drama. (That’s very cool.)
My conclusion: For the price of each, I think they’re a hit. (And it you have other GM vehicles in your stable that fall in the date range, the scanner is useful for them too.) IMHO if you plan to keep your retractable indefinitely as a collectible as I hope to, these are two items you need.
Good luck everyone. - Mark