After having you guys and my OBD-II reader help me fix a problem that the local Jaguar mechanic couldn't, I am thinking about upgrading to heavier stuff than my current chinese ELM 327 1.4 OBD-II reader. Many models are available, but I am pretty sure none of them will do any programming, just reading, no matter how expensive they are. Right?

So, I thought about getting a second hand IDS kit instead. But exactly how much is actually needed, to run full IDS on my 1995 XJR, just like the dealer? Cables, VCM hardware and IDS software? Looks like a standard laptop running Windows XP Pro 32-bit will suffice, no need for Toughbooks or other special pc hardware? Incodes for programming new (not reprogramming the ones already installed?) ECU's and keys. And that's it - ready to scan for fault codes, reprogram modules and all? Or?

Here's a few of the kits I am looking at. I know there's a lot of chinese replicas out there, but I am not really in buy-it-now mode yet. Just trying to learn and getting a bit worked up about the possibilities

IDS | FORD VCM IDS | JAGUAR IDS | Jaguar Landrover Mazda Ford Main Dealer Tool
VCM IDS diagnostic for Ford Jaguar Mazda and Landrover+ v80 IDS & 130 JLR | eBay
VCM IDS FORD MAZDA JAGUAR AND LAND ROVER DEALER TOOL | eBay
New Version Ford Rotunda Dealer IDS VCM V80 B

 

If you already have the reader that can connect to a pc, isn't it a matter of software at this point?

 

So no one has any knowledge whatsoever about the setup the dealers use? I am a bit surprised by that...

 

why program - is that what you're really after?

I say, get a MaxiDas d708 or AutoEnginuity, plus a scope, and be done with it.

Check aeswave for tools

 

Yes, I want control :-) Software engineer and old habits die hard.