Diagnostics and coding cable

M

mcmnathan

Member
Does anyone have any recommendations on where I should buy a odb cable for diagnostics and coding.

I would like to get some readings from the ECU but also programme auto folding mirrors and roof/window close if at all possible. I have been reading mixed opinion as to whether this is possible.

Any info / advice / recommendations welcome.

Thanks
 
I have a few different ways of plugging in to the car.

1. This cable: http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/281136716221 with my laptop which has a copy of the BMW diagnosis package ISTA/D on. I also have DISv57, INPA, WINKFP, NCSExpert and Tool32 for other jobs. With this you can do just about anything to the car. Update any of the modules on the car and make any coding changes.
This is hard to get working and requires patience as well as caution as it's very easy to completely f**k your car up. If you want to go down the route of having the complete BMW official toolset then you should start reading a few of the forums dedicated to it and go from there. (bimmerforums.com is a very good site for coding advice)

2. WiFi OBD2 dongle and a copy of the BMWhat iPhone application (http://www.ivini-apps.com/apps_detail_bmwhat_android.html). This is very easy to use and can read codes and code certain popular functions to the car. This is the best solution if you just want to do a few simple changes and read codes.

3. OpenFlash tablet (http://procedetuning.com/BMW/n54/Openflash/index.html). This can read codes and log data from the ECU which is a very useful tool for diagnosis. The main purpose of the device is remapping the ECU but I don't think they have any maps available for the 23i engine. The data logging function is incredibly useful, you can keep an eye on all sorts of parameters such as ignition timing and boost levels and have all the data saved to a csv file. Most people in the tuning community use a website called Datazap.me to upload of compare logs.


I don't know if the auto folding mirrors can be coded, I have heard people say it's not possible on several occasions. I have a SmartTop module which does that and also allows me to open the roof while moving. It's a nice addition to the car but costs a bit. I picked mine up for £100 off the previous owner of the car. Not sure I would pay full price for it.
 
R.E92, thanks for all that info - really helpful and greatly appreciated.

I think the second option with the WiFi ODB reader and BMWhat app will be suitable.

Do you know if the paid version of the iOS app is required for taking temp readings etc? As I understand paid for is just for coding. That said, their site would suggest that it can code the roof, windows and mirrors on the e89... Interesting!
 
Once again auto folding mirrors on pressing and holding the lock button for .5 sec or so is absolutely possible. I had it done remotely on my 2010 30i with idrive.
I don't care if 100 dealers say it can't be done because mine is working every day.

I realize that signal to noise ratio is bad on the web. I've read so much misinformation stated as fact on boards.

There is a link to get this coding done in my post at the end of the "folding mirrors" thread.
 
Lazyboy, Thanks for the link. Like I said, I've read mixed opinion so wasn't 100% sure.

I've dropped them a mail so hopefully should have it sorted soon if cost is sensible. Completely baffled why its not standard anyway.
 
I've now managed to code mirrors gold/unfold on lock/unlock, window closure on lock and a number of other useful things.

Very simple to do with the BMWhat app and a WiFi ODB II reader.

Thanks for the info R.E92,

Now just need the right app to view and record live stats from the engine. Temp, fuel and air flow etc.

Have looked at DashCommand. Any other recommendations?
 
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