It’s possible to get a good Bluetooth unit, which can provide an amazing amount of information about your car, for less than the price of a decent set of screwdrivers.
As a geek, I would think that diagnostic software would be best, since the software can be specialized and/or upgraded. OBD readers are so cheap that they should be in every DIY mechanic’s toolbox. Best/most useful scan tools It seems there are several types of diagnostic tools out there: hardware based scanners and software diagnostic tools. The wireless readers were connected via Bluetooth to an iPhone. We tried all of the readers on a variety of cars ranging from a 2003 Ford Focus to a 2015 Land Rover Discovery to check they worked, and could read codes and clear warning lights. There are two types available: wired units, which work independently with their own screens, or smaller readers that connect to a smartphone using Bluetooth or WiFi. We ignored the expensive professional readers and instead looked at the value end of the market. Watch this short guide to see the best OBD2 scan tools for your BMW & MINI BMW 1 Series E81, E82, E87, E88, F20, F21, BMW 3 Series E36, E46, E90, E91, E92, E. includes a number of components and provides extensive service functionalities.
Autel MaxiCOM scanner is a professional-level diagnostic scanner. BMWs factory tool is the PC based Online Service System (O.S.S.).
We tried six best-sellers to see how they checked out. Foxwell NT510 for BMW is an affordable scanner that supports all systems on most BMW models.
They have the ability to read many different diagnostic protocols (a language used by car diagnostic systems) the tools include protocols such as J1850 VPW, J1850 PWM, ISO15765-4 CAN (11 bit), ISO15765-4 (29 bit), ISO14230-4 KWP, ISO14230-4 KWP (5BPS) & ISO9141.Car security: how to keep your car and driveway protectedĮvery mechanic will have a machine to read and reset the OBD codes, and is likely to charge you at least £30 to do it but you can buy a reader and do it yourself for less.
Remember to let us know which tool your enquiring about, and your vehicle spec (make, model, petrol/diesel, model year)ĭiagnostic code reader can come in many forms, and can be called many things such as OBD2 scanner, OBD2 code reader, EOBD code reader or scanner, Multi System scan tool plus more. If you would like clarification on this please email us. BMW Scanner is a software developed for automotive diagnostics and firmware. BMW Scanner intended to work with BMW 3, 5, 7 series, X3, X5 SUV and Z4 roadster cars.
You can buy the tool online and delivery is generally 1-2 working days. Now its the best software for expert analysis and storing statistical data from BMW electronic control units. It will work on engine, ABS, SRS airbag, gearbox systems & more. My black zed has the ASC/ABS lights on and I bought this tool because I was assured that it would diagnose the problem.
When I opened the package all looked good, all cables were present, and all leaflets, booklets were as expected.
It all depends if you want an engine scanner code reader, or a kit/tool that will diagnose other systems like ABS, SRS airbags, transmission etc.įor the BMW 5 Series the best tool is the BMW iCarsoft i910 kit because it will allow you to read/diagnose diagnostic trouble/warning codes & then reset them, which will turn off the engine warning light. AUTOPHIX BMW Diagnostic Scanner Tool ,Enhanced BMW 7910 Multi-System OBD2 Scanner Auto Fault Code Reader with Battery Registration for All BMW After 1996 4.5 out of 5 stars 1,186 129.99 129. I paced my order and duly took delivery of my scanner. The best diagnostic tool for a BMW 5 Series E60 is shown below. For the BMW 7 Series E38, if you have a 1994, 1995 or 1996 model year the best tool is the Carsoft 6.5 if you have a 1997 onwards E38 you should use the iCarsoft i910 Multi System Scan Tool because it will allow you to read/diagnose diagnostic trouble/warning codes & then reset them, which will turn off the engine warning light.