Best Inexpensive Coding/Scanner Right Now

hybrid90 · 06-22-2019, 01:06 PM

I know this is a matter of preference and I've been reading up on these, but the more I read, the more confused I get.

I have an E92 335is without iDrive. I wanted to get a Foxwell Scanner but then realized that for the price of the Scanner, I could get the iCarly app or Bimmergeeks. These are both sounding really good right now because I want to disable the seat belt extenders, possibly the TPMS (I'm getting a "TPMS Inactive" fault) and I'm also,about to get another Comfort Access Key that will need to be coded once it arrives. Plus they will both do what the Scanner does.

Sooooo.... my question is: what is the best route to take for what I'm looking for? I may go a bit further later (add Satellite Radio, lighting options, nothing too deep) but those things I've already mentioned are of primary concern. Will either of those do what I'm looking for and which is the most user friendly. I realize that I'll have to get a small Android Tablet to use for Bimmergeeks and I'm not opposed to that so that isn't a factor.

Any input or advice is greatly appreciated. Thanks!!

Dpc2u · 06-22-2019, 02:30 PM

I have used Bimmergeeks Protool to do a lot of coding, euro mdm, combox, lighting changes, VO changes, the list goes on. User friendly, one time cost, updated regularly and not vin locked. I couldn't be happier with it personally. I have it on a tablet and my phone which makes it very convenient if I am not at home in front of a laptop.

hybrid90 · 06-22-2019, 02:33 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Dpc2u

I have used Bimmergeeks Protool to do a lot of coding, euro mdm, combox, lighting changes, VO changes, the list goes on. User friendly, one time cost, updated regularly and not vin locked. I couldn't be happier with it personally.

This is the feedback I'm looking for. I'd love to use iCarly because I'm an Apple guy, but I'd rather get a small tablet dedicated to ONLY my car. And iCarly seems like it wouldn't be that in depth. Thank you!!

Dpc2u · 06-22-2019, 02:43 PM

My pleasure, and I would consider the bluetooth module they have. I got both their cable and bluetooth module which I leave in the car and connected all the time. I have only used the cable a couple or times.

FLYIN4D · 06-23-2019, 04:31 PM

OP and Dpc2u,

I am also looking for the same deal for a car I am picking up next weekend - '08 328i Coupe w/6-spd manual.

Looking to have a dedicated setup just for the car.

So are you saying to purchase an Android tablet and use Bimmergeeks Protool?

Sure wish it would work with an iPad I have laying around that doesn't get used at all.

If so, I'd look at something used, Is there a particular "budget" android tablet you suggest I should consider? Are there specific minimum's required on the tablet to run the Bimmergeeks Protool software?

hybrid90 · 06-23-2019, 04:51 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by FLYIN4D

OP and Dpc2u,

I am also looking for the same deal for a car I am picking up next weekend - '08 328i Coupe w/6-spd manual.

Looking to have a dedicated setup just for the car.

So are you saying to purchase an Android tablet and use Bimmergeeks Protool?

Sure wish it would work with an iPad I have laying around that doesn't get used at all.

If so, I'd look at something used, Is there a particular "budget" android tablet you suggest I should consider? Are there specific minimum's required on the tablet to run the Bimmergeeks Protool software?

I wish it worked with Apple too, since I'm an Apple guy.

When they were messaging me on FB, they told me that all I need is an Android Tablet that is running minimum Android 4.1. Of course you will need the K-Dcan cable or Bluetooth Adapter (or both if you wish) and the Licensed software.

I was actually looking to get a cheap used Samsung 7"-8" Tablet to use for this since you can find those for $75-100. A friend suggested the Lenovo's. He said you can find those for around $50.

FLYIN4D · 06-23-2019, 11:38 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by hybrid90

I wish it worked with Apple too, since I'm an Apple guy.

When they were messaging me on FB, they told me that all I need is an Android Tablet that is running minimum Android 4.1. Of course you will need the K-Dcan cable or Bluetooth Adapter (or both if you wish) and the Licensed software.

I was actually looking to get a cheap used Samsung 7"-8" Tablet to use for this since you can find those for $75-100. A friend suggested the Lenovo's. He said you can find those for around $50.

Thanks man. I'll check a few different tablets out and snag one this week.

Did you purchase both?

"You can view many of the features included with the Diagnostic License ($84.99) below. For coding options questions, a Coding License($74.99) is not required to browse the coding features in-app."

I'll also purchase the Pro-K+Dcan Cable. I doubt I'll buy the bluetooth adapter.

hybrid90 · 06-23-2019, 11:44 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by FLYIN4D

Quote:

Originally Posted by hybrid90

I wish it worked with Apple too, since I'm an Apple guy.

When they were messaging me on FB, they told me that all I need is an Android Tablet that is running minimum Android 4.1. Of course you will need the K-Dcan cable or Bluetooth Adapter (or both if you wish) and the Licensed software.

I was actually looking to get a cheap used Samsung 7"-8" Tablet to use for this since you can find those for $75-100. A friend suggested the Lenovo's. He said you can find those for around $50.

Thanks man. I'll check a few different tablets out and snag one this week.

Did you purchase both?

"You can view many of the features included with the Diagnostic License ($84.99) below. For coding options questions, a Coding License($74.99) is not required to browse the coding features in-app."

I'll also purchase the Pro-K+Dcan Cable. I doubt I'll buy the bluetooth adapter.

I'll prob purchase both since I'm going to have to code a Comfort Access key and can't find anyone local who codes E Series cars. But like you, I plan on purchasing this week

ctuna · 06-23-2019, 11:55 PM

If you are trying to code keys you might want to read these two
threads.

https://www.bimmerfest.com/forums/sh...d.php?t=903551

https://www.e90post.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1510527

hybrid90 · 06-24-2019, 12:54 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ctuna

If you are trying to code keys you might want to read these two
threads.

https://www.bimmerfest.com/forums/sh...d.php?t=903551

https://www.e90post.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1510527

Thanks, ctuna. I just ordered a new CA key using the BMW Replacement program which should be at the dealership by Tuesday. I was told that it should work right off when inserted into the receptacle, but CA will need to be programmed. I've reached out to a couple of coders a few hours away since I'm not opposed to a road trip to get this done, but no response. I think I'm not realizing the depth of understanding coding to actually do any coding. But I am beginning to think I'm better off just having the dealer code the key and be done with it.

Again, thanks for the info. As usual, you are always a mountain of useful knowledge and willing to help us brothers (and sisters).

ctuna · 06-24-2019, 01:11 AM

From what I understand you need more than the common
coding programs offered here to do keys.

hybrid90 · 06-24-2019, 02:23 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ctuna

From what I understand you need more than the common
coding programs offered here to do keys.

That was my takeaway as well

Hiroyue · 06-28-2019, 12:07 AM

Is the car already comfort access from factory? Or you bought a CA key and think you can just code it the car for comfort access to work? If it’s the latter you’ll have more work to do. Bimmergeeks cable should work for most of the coding on e chassis with chances of issues on the radio module part. I think a way better option than Carly IMO

hybrid90 · 06-29-2019, 08:00 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Hiroyue

Is the car already comfort access from factory? Or you bought a CA key and think you can just code it the car for comfort access to work? If it’s the latter you’ll have more work to do. Bimmergeeks cable should work for most of the coding on e chassis with chances of issues on the radio module part. I think a way better option than Carly IMO

I got the key through the California Key Replacement program. I just had BMW code it for me so that won't be an issue any longer.

But today I'll be picking up a Samsung Galaxy Tab A 7.0" from Best Buy for $99 and then purchasing the Bimmergeeks diagnostic app to begin with. Unfortunately I'll still need to get the Pro K-dcan cable and micro USB adapter from Bimmergeeks before I can use it, but first thing is I've got to figure out exactly why my TPMS is going inactive. Then I'll get the Coding software after in case I need to just disable my TPMS.

hybrid90 · 07-06-2019, 09:33 AM

Got my Bimmergeeks Pro Tools set up and running last night during the earthquake, so I was poking around trying to figure it out. Gonna take some time to understand most of the stuff on there. Hell, I'm afraid to touch anything after reading some of the horror stories. I'm having a hard time getting past the "gauges" menu (where you have to choose which gauges to use)since I don't understand what it's asking me to do. (Yes, I'm a bit dense sometimes). So now I'm trying to read up on the how-to's and looking for some kind of instruction manual. So...

I realize that the only way to really learn this is like everything else, just have to start using it, so if anyone in my area (Santa Maria-San Luis Obispo-Santa Barbara) needs to use this, let me know since it's not vin locked and watching you will help me to learn.

On the plus side, I did figure out my TPMS problem...

El_J7 · 07-09-2019, 07:40 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by hybrid90

I got the key through the California Key Replacement program. I just had BMW code it for me so that won't be an issue any longer.

But today I'll be picking up a Samsung Galaxy Tab A 7.0" from Best Buy for $99 and then purchasing the Bimmergeeks diagnostic app to begin with. Unfortunately I'll still need to get the Pro K-dcan cable and micro USB adapter from Bimmergeeks before I can use it, but first thing is I've got to figure out exactly why my TPMS is going inactive. Then I'll get the Coding software after in case I need to just disable my TPMS.

What are the requirements for that program, how its done?

TheMidnightNarwhal · 07-09-2019, 07:52 AM

ISTA and NCS Expert.

Free so pretty inexpensive except for 40$ cable

hybrid90 · 07-09-2019, 07:54 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by TheMidnightNarwhal

ISTA and NCS Expert.

Free so pretty inexpensive except for 40$ cable

Will they work on a Mac or only Windows?

TheMidnightNarwhal · 07-09-2019, 08:02 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by hybrid90

Will they work on a Mac or only Windows?

Windows but I'm sure you can set up a virtual machine in Mac.

If not get rid of Apple products immidiately

hybrid90 · 07-09-2019, 08:09 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by TheMidnightNarwhal

Windows but I'm sure you can set up a virtual machine in Mac.

If not get rid of Apple products immidiately

I tried, but I kept coming back like a Crack Addict. The only addiction I have worse is my BMW ("Sorry Honey, no vacation this year. Daddy needs a new Carbon Fiber Rear Diffuser...")

ctuna · 07-09-2019, 12:23 PM

There are plenty of virtual machines that work with a Mac .
But I am not a fan of Apple because of the closed box nature
of there products.

there are pre built virtual machines with Inpa/ Ista to be found
on the e90post coding subforum.

hybrid90 · 07-09-2019, 12:31 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ctuna

There are plenty of virtual machines that work with a Mac .
But I am not a fan of Apple because of the closed box nature
of there products.

there are pre built virtual machines with Inpa/ Ista to be found
on the e90post coding subforum.

I may have to take a look at those, but I haven't had much luck with the Virtual Machines on Macs.

I actually went down and bought a new Samsung Android Tablet ($129 from Best Buy) and put BimmerGeeks Pro Tools on it. I'm still trying to figure it out, but it'll do for now, I suppose. If I really start getting into the Coding aspect, I'll prob break down and just buy a small Windows laptop and get rid of the Tablet.

06-22-2019, 01:06 PM	#1
hybrid90 Captain 246 Rep 715 Posts Drives: 2021 X3 M40i Join Date: Jun 2012 Location: Santa Maria, CA iTrader: (7) Garage List 2021 BMW X3 M40i [10.00]	Best Inexpensive Coding/Scanner Right Now I know this is a matter of preference and I've been reading up on these, but the more I read, the more confused I get. I have an E92 335is without iDrive. I wanted to get a Foxwell Scanner but then realized that for the price of the Scanner, I could get the iCarly app or Bimmergeeks. These are both sounding really good right now because I want to disable the seat belt extenders, possibly the TPMS (I'm getting a "TPMS Inactive" fault) and I'm also,about to get another Comfort Access Key that will need to be coded once it arrives. Plus they will both do what the Scanner does. Sooooo.... my question is: what is the best route to take for what I'm looking for? I may go a bit further later (add Satellite Radio, lighting options, nothing too deep) but those things I've already mentioned are of primary concern. Will either of those do what I'm looking for and which is the most user friendly. I realize that I'll have to get a small Android Tablet to use for Bimmergeeks and I'm not opposed to that so that isn't a factor. Any input or advice is greatly appreciated. Thanks!! __________________
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06-22-2019, 02:30 PM	#2
Dpc2u Major 11503 Rep 1,069 Posts Drives: E93 M3, E60 M5, F15 X5, E46 Join Date: Feb 2019 Location: Middle Tennessee iTrader: (0)	I have used Bimmergeeks Protool to do a lot of coding, euro mdm, combox, lighting changes, VO changes, the list goes on. User friendly, one time cost, updated regularly and not vin locked. I couldn't be happier with it personally. I have it on a tablet and my phone which makes it very convenient if I am not at home in front of a laptop. __________________ E46, E60 M5, E93 M3, F15 X5 IG - @thebimmerhaus
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06-22-2019, 02:43 PM	#4
Dpc2u Major 11503 Rep 1,069 Posts Drives: E93 M3, E60 M5, F15 X5, E46 Join Date: Feb 2019 Location: Middle Tennessee iTrader: (0)	My pleasure, and I would consider the bluetooth module they have. I got both their cable and bluetooth module which I leave in the car and connected all the time. I have only used the cable a couple or times. __________________ E46, E60 M5, E93 M3, F15 X5 IG - @thebimmerhaus
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06-23-2019, 04:31 PM	#5
FLYIN4D In The Lane Next To You 27 Rep 69 Posts Drives: 2008 BMW 328i 6MT Coupe Join Date: Jun 2019 Location: Heaven iTrader: (0)	OP and Dpc2u, I am also looking for the same deal for a car I am picking up next weekend - '08 328i Coupe w/6-spd manual. Looking to have a dedicated setup just for the car. So are you saying to purchase an Android tablet and use Bimmergeeks Protool? Sure wish it would work with an iPad I have laying around that doesn't get used at all. If so, I'd look at something used, Is there a particular "budget" android tablet you suggest I should consider? Are there specific minimum's required on the tablet to run the Bimmergeeks Protool software? __________________ "The bitterness of poor quality remains long after the sweetness of a low price has been forgotten. There's nothing more expensive than a cheap BMW."
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06-23-2019, 11:55 PM	#9
ctuna Lieutenant General 1911 Rep 13,100 Posts Drives: 325xi 06 wagon MT Join Date: Jan 2010 Location: Santa Cruz, Ca iTrader: (0)	If you are trying to code keys you might want to read these two threads. https://www.bimmerfest.com/forums/sh...d.php?t=903551 https://www.e90post.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1510527
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06-24-2019, 01:11 AM	#11
ctuna Lieutenant General 1911 Rep 13,100 Posts Drives: 325xi 06 wagon MT Join Date: Jan 2010 Location: Santa Cruz, Ca iTrader: (0)	From what I understand you need more than the common coding programs offered here to do keys.
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06-28-2019, 12:07 AM	#13
Hiroyue Private 9 Rep 88 Posts Drives: 2010 328i Join Date: Jun 2017 Location: Tampa FL iTrader: (0)	Is the car already comfort access from factory? Or you bought a CA key and think you can just code it the car for comfort access to work? If it’s the latter you’ll have more work to do. Bimmergeeks cable should work for most of the coding on e chassis with chances of issues on the radio module part. I think a way better option than Carly IMO
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07-06-2019, 09:33 AM	#15
hybrid90 Captain 246 Rep 715 Posts Drives: 2021 X3 M40i Join Date: Jun 2012 Location: Santa Maria, CA iTrader: (7) Garage List 2021 BMW X3 M40i [10.00]	Got my Bimmergeeks Pro Tools set up and running last night during the earthquake, so I was poking around trying to figure it out. Gonna take some time to understand most of the stuff on there. Hell, I'm afraid to touch anything after reading some of the horror stories. I'm having a hard time getting past the "gauges" menu (where you have to choose which gauges to use)since I don't understand what it's asking me to do. (Yes, I'm a bit dense sometimes). So now I'm trying to read up on the how-to's and looking for some kind of instruction manual. So... I realize that the only way to really learn this is like everything else, just have to start using it, so if anyone in my area (Santa Maria-San Luis Obispo-Santa Barbara) needs to use this, let me know since it's not vin locked and watching you will help me to learn. On the plus side, I did figure out my TPMS problem... __________________
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07-09-2019, 07:52 AM	#17
TheMidnightNarwhal Major General 2651 Rep 6,281 Posts Drives: 11' 335is DCT Join Date: Jun 2015 Location: Gatineau, Quebec iTrader: (0)	ISTA and NCS Expert. Free so pretty inexpensive except for 40$ cable
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07-09-2019, 12:23 PM	#21
ctuna Lieutenant General 1911 Rep 13,100 Posts Drives: 325xi 06 wagon MT Join Date: Jan 2010 Location: Santa Cruz, Ca iTrader: (0)	There are plenty of virtual machines that work with a Mac . But I am not a fan of Apple because of the closed box nature of there products. there are pre built virtual machines with Inpa/ Ista to be found on the e90post coding subforum.
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