Software

[tel]

I would like to get the software so that I can do my own coding. Any recommendations on which software and where to purchase it. Also how user friendly is it ?

Thanks in advance.

[StickMon]

This is one possible option.
I've only used it for diagnostics, and to set simple things with Progman, but it comes with NcsExpert.

[Taylorguy74]

Originally Posted by StickMon

This is one possible option.
I've only used it for diagnostics, and to set simple things with Progman, but it comes with NcsExpert.

I bought that too - works great! Check out cablestore.bmwmotion.com. It's this seller's website - lots of answers and help. The seller is very responsive and gets back to you quickly if you need help.

[E85fan]

Originally Posted by StickMon

This is one possible option.
I've only used it for diagnostics, and to set simple things with Progman, but it comes with NcsExpert.

Hey guys,

I don't mean to take over this thread but I have a related question. My car (2004 2.5i) has gone into transport mode. I am trying to avoid a trip to the dealers and from what I have read online I can delete transport mode with diagnostic software. Would this kit solve this issue for me and how easy or difficult is it to do so?

Many thanks in advance!

[elerner61]

That vendor/site seems to have gone "poof". Anyone know where to get their goods, or recommend a cost efficient replacement "beginner" cable/programmer?

[StickMon]

You mean this?

[elerner61]

I'm pretty sure the build date of my car is May of 2007. What is with the "through 3/2007" cutoff date of that tool? What is significant about that date?

[StickMon]

Hmmm. Not sure.
Introduction of canbus, maybe?

[elerner61]

Originally Posted by StickMon

Hmmm. Not sure.
Introduction of canbus, maybe?

Yes, from what I've read that seems to be it (DCAN protocol). That bumps the cable price up to $80. http://www.ebay.com/itm/231211966884...84.m1555.l2649

I'm wondering though if an ELM327 Wifi OBD unit like this one at $20 wouldn't work as well with a laptop. http://www.amazon.com/Wirless-Diagno..._cd_ql_qh_dp_t and pick up copies of SSS/Progman, NCS Expert to work with it. I see one comment from a person with "a 2009 BMW" who says it worked for him.

Thoughts.

[StickMon]

If you can get that to look like a serial port, it should work.
The drivers for all the BMW software expect a serial connection, not LAN.
I'm sure there's some shim software somewhere to make 192.168.0.10:35000 map to COM1.

I have a Bluetooth ELM327 that I don't need, in case you determine that would be better than WiFi.

[elerner61]

What got me thinking an ELM327 connection would work is that this iVini app uses one: http://www.ivini-apps.com/apps_detai...at_iphone.html . Too bad the app is expensive. For $50 + $20 for the ELM327 I'd rather just pay the $80 for the guaranteed Canbus cable with various software and get access to all the coding capabilities and not have to wait for the iVini folks next upgrade. http://www.ebay.com/itm/231211966884...84.m1555.l2649

Using an iPhone and wireless OBD dongle to code some changes IS awfully attractive though......

[elerner61]

So I bought a "cost efficient" canbus cable for my post 3/2007 build car on eBay that had feedback from multiple owners. Could be a crapshoot.(http://www.ebay.com/itm/Diagnostic-T..._Tools&vxp=mtr)

Now I just need to find a source for Progman, NCSExpert etc... Any help appreciated.

[Koevoet]

Hi there
Just for interest sake, what would a person program with this unit?

Regards

[elerner61]

It's not a unit, it's a cable and software you use in conjunction with a computer. You use it to program functionality of your car, there are many things you can do. Do a Google search for "bmw coding" to read more about it.