How to set up GM Techline Connect - account, VIN slot, and software installation
Step-by-step guide to set up GM Techline Connect including creating your ACDelco TDS account, purchasing a VIN slot, downloading and installing TLC Installer, and connecting to a GM vehicle.
Need to set up GM Techline Connect for General Motors vehicle diagnostics and programming? This guide walks you through the full installation and setup process — from creating your ACDelco TDS account to connecting to your first GM vehicle. Microsoft Edge is recommended as your browser and Windows 11 is required.
How to create an ACDelco TDS account for GM Techline Connect
Step 1: Go to https://www.acdelcotds.com/subscriptions.
Step 2: Click Login/Register to create a new ACDelco TDS (Technical Delivery System) account. If you already have an account, log in with your existing credentials.
Your ACDelco TDS account is required to access GM Techline Connect subscriptions, VIN slots, and software downloads.
How to purchase a GM VIN slot for Techline Connect
Step 3: On the ACDelco TDS main page, use the first dropdown to select "1 Vehicle $45" and add it to cart.
Step 4: Checkout and head back to the main page at https://www.acdelcotds.com/subscriptions.
This is your GM VIN slot — it allows you to program 1 VIN or vehicle for 24 months. You need one VIN slot per vehicle you want to program with GM Techline Connect
How to add your VIN and download GM Techline Connect
Step 5: After purchasing your VIN slot, go to "My Subscriptions." There will be a button to the right that says "Access" — click it.
Step 6: In the pop-up window , select "add VIN" and enter the VIN of the GM vehicle you want to work on.
Step 7: Microsoft Edge will load a new tab. In the top left, select "Download."
Step 8: Select "Download TLC Installer."
Step 9: Go to your downloads folder and run the file "TLCInstaller.exe" by double clicking on it. Follow the prompts to install the file. Note that this is not the full installation — it is just the initial setup.
How to launch and complete the GM Techline Connect installation
Step 10: Return to the internet tab where you just downloaded the TLC Installer.
Step 11: Select the "Launch" tab on the top left and toggle "run as administrator." Then click on "Launch Techline Connect."
Step 12: The program (Techline Connect) will launch and this time it will auto install all remaining software. The software auto-checks for updates and will attempt to perform them every time you launch Techline Connect.
Important: Techline Connect MUST be launched from the web browser. Do not use the desktop icons — launching from desktop icons will not work correctly.
How to connect to a GM vehicle with Techline Connect
Once the GM Techline Connect installation and setup is complete, you are ready to connect to the vehicle by inputting the VIN and selecting the appropriate VCI (Vehicle Communication Interface) such as the MDI 2.
If you need help with GM Techline Connect setup, ACDelco TDS account creation, VIN slot purchases, or connecting to a GM vehicle, contact AETools at https://aetools.us or call us directly.