About the DST-i (Denso Scan Tool Interface) for Subaru

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The Denso Scan Tool Interface, DST-i for short, allows the Subaru vehicle’s ECU’s to communicate with the diagnostic software for diagnosis and configuration. To use it with the newer vehicles 2016-2022 you must combine the DST-i with SSM4 software. The Subaru Select Monitor 4 software is sold as yearly subscription.

The DST-i combined with SSM4 and is Subaru’s latest factory diagnostics tool. It is also used by professional automotive technicians. The software vehicle coverage and functionality are the same as the software used at Subaru dealerships and official service points.

DST-i provides; Automatic Vehicle Detection, System Diagnosis, Error Codes, Data Recording and Troubleshooting Guidance. For advanced features you need the software installed on a laptop that must have Windows 10 installed and it should be exclusively used for SSM4 software. This is to prevent software errors as that would create conflicts in the diagnostics process.

The SSM4 covers the following systems; smart key codes, key registration, keyless entry, blind-spot detection, combination meter, telematics and adaptive cruise control.

You do not need a powerful laptop to efficiently use the SSM4 software, just get a laptop that is rugged (more durable laptops made for rough environments) it is not a must but it will surely increase the chances of surviving the workshop environment.

You need at least 8GB Ram. Any CPU that can handle light office software is sufficient An SSD drive is preferred for faster operating performance. It also positively affects software speed. An integrated graphics card is enough to handle the SSM4 software.

The SSM3 software comes with the SSM4 however, the SSM3 software has not been updated for many years. There are known compatibility issues if you install both SSM3 and SSM4 at the same time, even though the interface allows you to change it to one another, because SSM3 hasn’t been updated for so long time, it has been decided that it is better off not to use both because it will give you errors and throw off diagnosis data.

This is a delicate piece of software and you must respect the warnings for its usage otherwise you will have headaches later on regarding to errors and false diagnosis.

DST-i & SSM4 Features

If you service Subaru vehicles, you definitely need the DST-i and SSM4 software as it will substantially increase the services you provide, therefore, your auto shop will generate considerably more income and you will be able to fix much more issues with anything related to ECU, TCU and rest of the onboard systems.

DST-i manual

DST-i kit includes the following: