[fr3nch2]

So I don’t typically start threads here, but I just got this Schwaben Scan Tool from ECS Tuning. I thought it would be good to start a thread that we can all use for questions and functionality check that others in the community may also be wondering.

I got this tool and spent probably close to a solid hour and a half (more now) messing with it see what all I can make it do. I’ve found a pretty extensive list of what I can do with this thing, and I feel like I’ve just scratched the surface. I think this is a must have for any BMW owner. If nothing else it saves a diagnostic trip to the dealer, and if you like to DIY, it’s definitely a must.

Here’s a rundown of what I’ve found it can do:

-Battery registration
-Injector adjustments (You can also do adaptations if you change injectors)
-Complete function check of any system (Includes gauge hacking, individual light components, etc.)
-Read Chassis specific codes (including brief description)
-Clear trouble codes
-Code key replacement (haven't tried this, but it is in the function menu)
-Live data
-ABS Bleeding
-Water pump control to allow you to perform a coolant flush

I know there’s probably more I’m forgetting, but this is just off the top of my head.

I also talked to ECS about the ability to code like their VAG tool. They said they expect it to be able to in March! WIN

[Jklad]

Interesting - how would this compare to the bavtech tool?

[fr3nch2]

Originally Posted by Jklad

Interesting - how would this compare to the bavtech tool?

Honestly the main difference between the two is how portable it is. This is a handheld scan tool as compared to the BT cable which is just that. A cable. You still need a laptop to be able to use that.

This thing I can just plug in and start using. full color screen and all.

They also run about the same price. I think it's a $10 difference. I'd take this every time.

[ECSTuning]

jklad the Schwaben/Foxwell unit is a stand alone tool, no need for a laptop, this can be a positive or negative depending on the style tool you like to use. If you're use to a GUI interface on a laptop going to a scan tool style interface will take some getting use to.

Going by a quick look once Schwaben/Foxwell releases the coding update the tools look to have very similar functions. Also no VIN lock on the Schwaben scan tool, use it on as many cars as you'd like.

-James

[BQTuning]

A product like this needs a Youtube walk through especially in areas that mean the most to enthusiasts.

[fr3nch2]

Originally Posted by BuraQ

A product like this needs a Youtube walk through especially in areas that mean the most to enthusiasts.

So maybe we can get ECS to do one?

We could use this as a means to tell them which ones? I could probably do it myself, but I don't get a lot of free time, and definitely don't have a good camera to use...

[ECSTuning]

^agreed. Once coding the coding update hits and we have time to work with it in house I'll put it on my videographer!

If there are any specifics yall would like to see please let me know and I'll insure they are on my list.

-James

[nitehawk]

You can code injectors after replacement with this?
I don't think BT has that capability...

[fr3nch2]

Originally Posted by nitehawk

You can code injectors after replacement with this?
I don't think BT has that capability...

It's an accessible option in the menu list... I haven't tried it because my injectors are fine but there's a long list of menus in fuel injection you can mess with. Injector replacement and adaptations were in there and you could access it.

[GATORB8]

Not to threadjack, and this may be a noob question, but do Tuners like the COBB include similiar capabilities, or can they only read codes?

[ECSTuning]

Originally Posted by GATORB8

Not to threadjack, and this may be a noob question, but do Tuners like the COBB include similiar capabilities, or can they only read codes?

Most handheld tuners that will also pull codes only pull the basic P codes, not your BMW specific code lines. Now don't get me wrong P codes are very useful, they'll send you down the right path (most of the time), but manufacturer specific codes are going to tell you what door to open.

-James

[fr3nch2]

Originally Posted by ECSTuning

Most handheld tuners that will also pull codes only pull the basic P codes, not your BMW specific code lines. Now don't get me wrong P codes are very useful, they'll send you down the right path (most of the time), but manufacturer specific codes are going to tell you what door to open.

-James

^^What he said. They offer very basic codes that sometimes wont be of much help at all. This tool will also do much more than that.

Well said, I was trying to put together how to say that. You said it better than I could have.

[335NJ]

Definitely looking forward to more info on the potential to program additional keys. This alone would be huge.

[fr3nch2]

Originally Posted by 335NJ

Definitely looking forward to more info on the potential to program additional keys. This alone would be huge.

I need to try it, I actually only have one key right now so I'll see what I can do. I need to buy a spare uncoded and see if I can get it to work.

[335NJ]

Originally Posted by fr3nch2

I need to try it, I actually only have one key right now so I'll see what I can do. I need to buy a spare uncoded and see if I can get it to work.

Definitely let me know what you find.

[doug@frankenturbo]

ECS Tuning extended us an evaluation copy of this unit and I was really impressed with it. The various functions remind me of the vaunted VAG-COM system we've used in Volkswagen & Audi for years. Such a simple and affordable scanner is really a plus for this platform.

[BQTuning]

The community needs specifics, comparisons to mainstream devices like the BT Tool, MHD, COBB , INPA which can detect P codes, H codes and shadow codes.

The most detailed and specific of them is the BT Tool and INPA. Both have their pros and cons what the other can or cannot do. The downside you need a windows OS to run these and Windows OS has become obsolete for mobility. This will have to compare technically with the BT Tool and you have to have experience with the BT Tool to compare with this new product.

I like the idea there is no VIN lock. I was getting ready to buy another BT Tool with no VIN limitation, but hell if this tool can do better than the BT Tool then Im all down for it.

First though, the product needs some proper introduction. Drama is not going to make it sell.

[nitehawk]

One thing to consider about this tool is that the software updates for it are free for the first 18 months only. What would be the cost of updates after that?

[brecken]

Can this data log sensors

[BQTuning]

Originally Posted by brecken

Can this data log sensors

It says it does. However what sensors does it specifically log is the question. The BT tool lack ignition logging for all 6 cylinder.

Also, which MAP sensor the tool has access to. We have two map sensors. The TMAP sensor on the charge pipe, and MAP sensor on the intake manifold. BMW specific tool can access the TMAP, but general OBDII scanners only have access to the MAP sensor on the intake manifold which is useless to us which is used for vacuum.

I definitely the ability it has to retract the calipers when changing brakes. This is even more critical for those with E brakes. I just changed my rear brakes not too long ago, and this would have saved me the pain of having to retract calipers manually.

[davidwarren]

Originally Posted by ECSTuning

jklad the Schwaben/Foxwell unit is a stand alone tool, no need for a laptop, this can be a positive or negative depending on the style tool you like to use. If you're use to a GUI interface on a laptop going to a scan tool style interface will take some getting use to.

Going by a quick look once Schwaben/Foxwell releases the coding update the tools look to have very similar functions. Also no VIN lock on the Schwaben scan tool, use it on as many cars as you'd like.

-James

Hey James-
Does this mean the Schwaben will be able to do coding? Any links on info?

[ECSTuning]

Originally Posted by davidwarren

Hey James-
Does this mean the Schwaben will be able to do coding? Any links on info?

Yes, and not until Foxwell released the update.

-James