If it is more than a reflash: Remember, many late model cars have immobilizer systems and the general subscription will not give you access to security codes for programming these systems. For instance a PCM replacement in a Chrysler will require SKIM PIN codes in order to complete the job. In fact some reflash jobs will also require immobilizer reprogramming.
Add it up. Figure out how many jobs you have subcontracted out to other vendors in the past year. Then add your tool purchase price to the subscription costs that would have been charged, and the time it will take to sign up for and learn how to use each OEM website and associated software. Some are easier, some are incredibly difficult to set up and use. Some will not run on the same computer as some others. There is a substantial time investment involved with keeping all of the different OEM software up to date and working.
The cost for a minimum subscription to an OEM website varies. The most common charge is $20 for a one day subscription. Some subscriptions are $100 per day.
Is it worth it? I guess that depends on how many jobs you do per year. For most shops though, the time saved and the headaches averted will lead them to call us instead of getting into the J2534 game. However, if you think you would be better off getting your own pass-thru device, call us. We can point you in the right direction. We sell equipment and have the experience to get you the right tool. Don't just buy the one the guy on the tool truck talked you into.
J2534 won't do it all! For most jobs, we use the factory equipment, not J2534. It is easier and allows us to deal with security and immobilizer issues too.
Example Investment Return:
24 subscriptions = $480 (at $20 each, some are much more)
Tool cost = $2000
time to complete a new setup and reflash: 1.5 - 3 hours
potential time investment, 1 year: 48 hours
48 hours of technician pay: $960
1st year investment for 20 programming jobs: $3440
The cost to hire SOS for these jobs: $2400-$3000