KESS V2 Clone vs Original

Alientech KESS V2

The programmer is a crucial element in the ECU remapping process, and selecting the right tool is essential for successful and reliable results. In this article, we explore the differences between the KESS V2 clone and the original, their functionalities, and the risks associated with using clones. Additionally, we address common questions about KESS tools, including their applications, compatibility, and the distinctions between KESS and KTAG. This guide will help you make an informed decision when choosing the right programmer for your tuning needs.

K-Suite: KESS V2 & KTAG vs KESS3

K-Suite is a software developed by Alientech to operate their ECU programming tools, such as KESS V2, KTAG, and the newer KESS3. It acts as an interface between the hardware and the user. KESS V2 and KTAG were mostly offline tools that didn’t require an internet connection, making them susceptible to being cracked and cloned. Clone versions of KESS V2 run on outdated and lower versions of K-Suite, posing significant risks such as incompatibility with vehicles, outdated software, lack of support, and potential damage to ECUs.

Alientech addressed these issues by releasing KESS3, which combines the functionality of both KESS V2 and KTAG into a single, entirely online device. KESS3 is impossible to crack or clone, offers full support, and is seven times faster than its predecessors. As KESS V2 and KTAG are now outdated and discontinued, upgrading to KESS3 is highly recommended. For more information about KESS3, you can read the detailed KESS3 ARTICLE HERE.

What's the difference between KESS and KTAG?

Both of the two are tools from the Alientech company, designed for tuning ECUs, but they serve different purposes. 

KESS V2: It’s able to read and write the ECU file only through the OBD port.

KTAG: Designed for JTAG, BDM and Boot applications, requiring direct connection to the ECU by opening it and working on the bench. It is suitable for ECUs that have locks, got locked or are damaged, and can’t be accessed through OBD. To learn more about KTAG, you can check out THIS ARTICLE.

What is KESS used for?

KESS is utilized for reading and writing ECU data via OBD port, enabling tasks such as performance tuning, remapping, and diagnostics. It supports a wide range of vehicles, including cars, bikes, trucks, tractors, and boats, facilitating modifications to engine parameters for enhanced performance or efficiency.

Does KESS V2 still work?

Yes, KESS V2 remains functional and effective for many vehicles, especially older models. However, it doesn’t get updates anymore and with the advent of newer vehicle models and advanced ECU technologies, its compatibility may be limited. For the latest vehicles, newer tools like KESS3 might be more appropriate. 

KESS V2 Vehicle List PDF

The KESS V2 supports a comprehensive list of vehicles. For detailed compatibility information, you can read this vehicle list PDF. (ATTACHEMNT)

Differences of KESS V2 Clone vs Original

Original KESS V2:

• Pros:
  • High-quality components ensure reliability and durability.
  • Access to official software updates and customer support.
  • Comes with a unique serial number and barcode for authenticity verification.
  • Automatic checksum correction
  • Safe and supported programming
  • Update for new vehicles
  • Compatibility with all Brands
  • Reading and writing speed
• Cons:
  • Higher cost compared to clones.

KESS V2 Clone:

• Pros:
  • Significantly lower price.
• Cons:
  • Inferior build quality with cheaper components, leading to potential reliability issues.
  • Lack of official support and updates.
  • Risk of malfunction or damage to the vehicle's ECU.
  • Absence of unique serial numbers, making authenticity verification difficult.

The clone ECU programming tools often mimic the appearance of genuine devices closely, with similar labels and logos. However, key differences can help distinguish them. Genuine tools feature an Alientech logo with a distinctive jelly label that clones typically lack. Additionally, genuine tools have USB lights that are flush with the surface, unlike clones which may have sunken lights. Each genuine tool also bears a unique serial number and barcode, usually displayed on a label or accessible through the tool's information page. Another indicator is the material of the box gasket: genuine tools use a soft, rubbery gasket, while clones use a firm, plastic one. Finally, genuine tools tend to be heavier due to higher-quality components, unlike lighter, simpler clones that often come with a CD instead of internet connectivity for updates.

KESS V2 Clone Reviews from Users:

User experiences with KESS V2 clones vary. Some report successful ECU reads and writes on older vehicles, while others encounter significant issues, including device failure and ECU damage. The inconsistency in quality and performance makes clones a risky choice for ECU programming.

KESS V2 Clone Problems: 

Common problems associated with KESS V2 clones include unreliable connections leading to incomplete data transfers, incompatibility with certain vehicle models, potential to corrupt or damage the vehicle's ECU, lack of access to official software updates, resulting in outdated functionality. 

Altogether, using a cloned KESS, it is going to be a nightmare sometimes. Reading the file is not going to be a problem but sometimes it crashes when writing and the ECU gets locked! Then you can’t have access through OBD which forces you to open the ECU and reprogram it on bench. If you’re lucky and have an original KTAG or KESS3 you can recover the ECU. 

KESS V2 Clone Price: 

KESS V2 clone devices are available at various price points, typically ranging from approximately $25 to $100 USD, depending on the seller and included accessories. For instance, listings on Alibaba.com offer KESS V2 clones priced between $25.74 and $32.40 USD per unit. Additionally, some users have reported that the total cost of setting up a KESS V2 clone system, including necessary accessories and software, can amount to around $460 USD. 

KESS V2 Clone Software Download:

Clone devices typically rely on unofficial or pirated software versions. However, you can download the clone software with the latest version from the link below. Please note that using such software may still pose legal and security risks, as it lacks official updates and support. In contrast, original KESS V2 tools provide access to official, up-to-date software through authorized channels, ensuring compliance, reliability, and safety for users.

Can a KESS V2 clone be repaired if it fails?

Yes, a KESS V2 clone can sometimes be repaired, but it depends on the nature of the issue and the quality of the clone. Since clones use cheaper components, repairs might be challenging due to the unavailability of replacement parts or poor build quality. Additionally, finding a skilled technician familiar with clone repairs can be difficult, and even if repaired, the device may not perform reliably. Opting for an original tool ensures better support and durability, reducing the risk of such failures.

Conclusion
While the KESS V2 clone may seem like an appealing option due to its lower price, the risks, including unreliable performance, potential ECU damage, and lack of support, often outweigh the cost savings. The original KESS V2 offers superior build quality, access to updates, and dependable results, making it the better choice for professional tuners. With the introduction of the KESS3, Alientech has set a new standard in ECU programming tools, offering advanced features and reliability. Whether you're upgrading or starting in the ECU tuning world, investing in genuine tools ensures quality, safety, and peace of mind.