The Volvo Diagnostic Communication Equipment, commonly known as DiCE, is an essential tool for effective vehicle diagnostics and repair. However, the market has seen a rise in pirated DiCE units, often sold at significantly lower prices through aftermarket channels and various websites. While these unauthorized versions may seem appealing due to their cost-effectiveness, they pose considerable risks and can lead to numerous complications in vehicle servicing. These lower quality units are known to cause diagnostic inaccuracies, fault tracing issues, and even introduce new problems into the vehicle’s system. This ultimately results in repair delays and decreased customer satisfaction.
The Pitfalls of Pirated DiCE Tools
Choosing a pirated DiCE tool can have serious repercussions. Volvo explicitly states that they do not provide any support for customers who utilize these unauthorized units. Volvo’s support is exclusively reserved for DiCE tools manufactured to their stringent standards or those that adhere to J2534-2 requirements. Using non-genuine tools can therefore leave technicians without manufacturer support when issues arise, further complicating the diagnostic and repair process.
Volvo’s Vehicle Communication Tools: DiCE and J2534
To ensure seamless communication between the vehicle and diagnostic software, Volvo supports two primary types of vehicle communication tools: DiCE and J2534 devices. These tools facilitate the transfer of data from a VIDA workstation to the appropriate receiver within the vehicle. VIDA, Volvo’s diagnostic application, is compatible with both DiCE and J2534 devices. However, for vehicles based on D2 and GGD protocols, Volvo Car Corporation specifically recommends the use of DiCE for optimal vehicle communication.
DiCE: Dedicated Volvo Interface
The DiCE tool establishes a connection via Bluetooth to exchange information between VIDA and the vehicle. For situations where Bluetooth connectivity is not preferred or available, a USB cable can be used as a reliable alternative. It’s crucial to note that Volvo DiCE equipment is designed to function exclusively with its proprietary Bluetooth technology. Third-party Bluetooth dongles are not compatible and should not be used with DiCE.
Utilizing Multiple DiCE Units
For workshops requiring higher throughput, VIDA offers the capability to connect and operate with multiple DiCE units simultaneously. A single VIDA workstation can manage up to four DiCE units, enabling software downloads to as many as three vehicles in parallel, while also allowing for active diagnostics on one vehicle concurrently. This feature significantly enhances efficiency, allowing a single workstation with four DiCEs to handle the diagnostic needs of four vehicles at the same time.
J2534 Devices: Industry Standard Compatibility
For model year 2004 vehicles and newer, equipped with OBD and reprogramming capabilities, manufacturers are required to comply with SAE J2534 standards. There are two main classifications of J2534:
- J2534-1: This standard is applicable for software downloads in vehicles from model year 2004 onwards. J2534-1 manages software updates for emission-related control modules on the Controller Area Network High Speed (CAN HS). It is important to note that J2534-1 is not designed for diagnostic purposes.
- J2534-2: This more comprehensive standard extends software download capabilities to control modules on both CAN HS and Controller Area Network Middle Speed (CAN MS).
Volvo has validated VIDA’s compliance with J2534 using hardware from third-party suppliers. Examples of validated J2534 pass-thru devices include Actia Passthru+ XS and carDAQ2534 for J2534-1, and CarDAQ Plus for J2534-2. For detailed information regarding these J2534 devices, it is recommended to contact the respective manufacturers directly.
Conclusion: Choose Genuine for Reliability
In conclusion, while pirated Car Dice Tools might present a tempting lower-cost option, the risks associated with their use far outweigh any potential savings. For reliable Volvo diagnostics, access to manufacturer support, and overall workshop efficiency, investing in genuine Volvo DiCE tools or validated J2534 devices is the recommended and most effective approach. Ensuring you are using the correct and supported equipment is crucial for accurate diagnoses, efficient repairs, and ultimately, customer satisfaction.
