When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
I just took possession of my first Mini. It's a a 2013 R56 (N18) with 150k. I've seen some comments about scanners indicating that some don't read the "BMW Codes" and report only "generic" codes. Any advice on pros and cons of different code readers as well as specific brand recommendations?
I use our Schwaben scan tool. Read more then those generic ones. Also if their are issues I can help you, while other tools don't really have any support.
I have the Schwaben tool and wanted to do CVT adaptations but was told it cant do that. I then purchased the Foxwell 510 which look identical except for color and it does that adaptations.
The Schwaben tools are made by Foxwell, and Foxwell makes many different scan tools; I've been a Foxwell beta-tester since 2018. Some scanners can just read codes. Some are full diagnostic platforms with bi-directional control and can program modules and perform coding. Some can do all that and are a full tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) tool as well. It all depends what you want to be able to do.
Can any turn on the ability to use the rear fog lights? I put the switch on and have the reverse lights with a central rear fog light and it would be cool to get that feature.
I can test it with my Schwaben scan tool (turn on/off) but its not a programmer. If you want the ability you add the switch and then you need a coding tool like Carista to turn it on the program. https://www.ecstuning.com/b-carista-...cobd-bt24~cra/
I haven't used Carista but I do use Bimmerlink (reads diag codes) and BimmerCode to program. I already had a BT device that worked with it. I also have a K+DCAN cable that I use a USB adapter to connect to my Android Tablet. When coding, I like to be hardwired instead of BT.
Can any turn on the ability to use the rear fog lights? I put the switch on and have the reverse lights with a central rear fog light and it would be cool to get that feature.
I have an i80TS that will perform some programming/coding functions. I'd try it on my car, but I'm in the middle of an engine rebuild right now. I did successfully program my '09 Justa's ABS module, but I haven't tried coding with it.
I'm sorry it's taken so long for me to respond, I had some computer difficulties and have just recovered. Right now I'm just learning about codes and just beginning to work with my 2013 N18. Based on that I would like a code scanner that will help me troubleshoot but reprogramming is probably beyond my current knowledge level. What is the average cost difference between one that reads and one that allow you to reprogram? Are the ones that actually read BMW codes and advantage with my engine type? If I eventually buy an tune will both types allow me to apply it?
I’ve daily driven with the OBDLink MX and now use BlueDriver (gave the MX to my uncle when I moved). Both are wireless and I have them display coolant temp, boost pressure, and vehicle speed (because I slightly taller tires). The OBDLink MX only gave me basic engine codes, the BlueDriver can give all the other codes (lights, brakes, AC, etc.). I have an E717 code related to the AC but don’t know exactly what it is (possibly heater/cooling door issue). I do a lot of scans for friends so they both come in handy. If it’s just for yourself, might want to look into the more BMW specific tools.
I'm sorry it's taken so long for me to respond, I had some computer difficulties and have just recovered. Right now I'm just learning about codes and just beginning to work with my 2013 N18. Based on that I would like a code scanner that will help me troubleshoot but reprogramming is probably beyond my current knowledge level. What is the average cost difference between one that reads and one that allow you to reprogram? Are the ones that actually read BMW codes and advantage with my engine type? If I eventually buy an tune will both types allow me to apply it?
There aren't any aftermarket scan tools that I know of that will perform diagnostic functions and DME flashing (tuning); these are drastically different tasks.
Prices are changing all the time (thanks Joe!); but, you can get a 7" tablet scan tool for $500-$800 depending on if you want it to perform TPMS functions.
Foxwell's 7" i70TS has bi-directional controls but will not perform programming or coding. That used to go for $499.00, but prices have probably gone up since last year.
The i70TS II will do everything the i70TS will do and adds programming and coding. All tools ending in "TS" are full TPMS platforms.
If you don't want TPMS function, you can save some money by going with the i70II or i70BT; you can add coding and programming with the i70Pro; again, these tools do not perform TPMS functions. like the TS tools do. My last pricing info for the i70II was $399.00, i70BT $459.00, and i70Pro $869. The i70II, i70BT, and i70Pro all have bi-directional controls.
All have 3 years free updates.
Contact Henry@foxwelltech.com and tell him Mark sent you; he'll get you the best possible price. Item will ship directly from China.
Oh, and make sure to drop by the Foxwell booth and say hi at this year's SEMA show In Las Vegas 31 Oct - 3 Nov.
Actually, from one f his assistants - Isabella. They were great to deal with, understood shipping and taxes and make the transaction seamless. They do take Paypall
Well, to give others a bit more info on the dialog mkov608 and I had:
I have a several cars - so wanted a scanner that worked on several fronts. I also was sensitive to updates ( and cost etc ). I have 2 minis - one rebuilt the other in the process, which involve engine rebuilds and upgrades. Hence the desire to deal with codes when enhancing. The other vehicles are an F150 ( which throws a code every now and then ), 2008 Porsche Turbo ( issues with their TPMS and calibration ) and a 2003 jeep with an LS/L99 Conversion ( check engine light issues there ). So I wanted a unit that works across several manufacturers.
After talking with Isabella a few times ( isabella@foxwelltech.com - she reports to Mark ) - I narrowed down to the I75TS. MKOV608 verified it was a good price. I also got a box of TPMS sensors at a fraction of the cost of OE and miniscule compared to Porsche Huf ( I plan to replace my tires soon on the Porsche - they are at the 6 - 7 year mark, and the Huf Sensors read 4 psi low, which annoyingly causes the tire pressure sensor light to come on in the dash. So will use the Foxwell sensors on the new tires. The Foxwell only calibrates their own sensors ).
The I75TS comes with 3 years of free updates, but is pricey after that - as it is one of the upscale scanners ( bi directional and some programming ). I might not need updates - for my cars, as they are older. However, what sweetened the deal for me was when I asked if they would also sell the I50TS ( free updates, but not bidirectional ) at a more reduced price ( this one will rotate between the vehicles, while the I75TS stays inside when not in use ). Given their desire to sell direct and I was buying two, Isabella was able to accommodate. Note - these are the new platforms, so will be around a while. The only thing they do not have is fast charging - so need to use the old style cell phone chargers.
Shipping was air via DHL and arrived very quickly. Only extra cost was PayPal charge ( buyer usually pays this for international purchases. One could do a bank transfer, but you don't have the PayPal guarantee ). They even worked out the tariffs for me - so no delays in customs.
My F150 is near 200,000 miles - so I do get an occasional service soon light. I have used the I50TS to find out what it is ( O2 sensor related - it only comes on at idle after a 10 hour drive. It has turned off when I restart the car ). I have not done anything serious on the Mini yet - but I have replacement LEDs in my first one that has thrown the exclamation point - which I want to see if I can turn off / tune out, rather then re-ballasts etc ... ).
I do have friends in Guangzhou China, not far from Foxwell who were able to also connect with them - and verify this is a good operation. They also show in Auto shows around the world ( SEMA, Automechanika in Dubai etc ). I am also active on WeChat - which facilitated the conversation much faster then email ( I do consulting in Asia - so am often on WhatsApp and WeChat ).
Thought I would give a follow up on the I50TS. My Porsche TPMS was giving me fits - as they read low, so was constantly giving me the exclamation point. Also - I had a slow leak in the drivers front tire, which we could not find a leak in the tire, so am thinking it was a valve stem or bead seal.
So I brought to the shop, with a set of Foxwell TPMS and asked them to inspect all tires ( they are at the 6 year old mark ) and check for rubber rot on the lift ( what I could see was fine ). If they think the tires still have good life - replace sensors ( with special attention to the drivers front ). If they are bad - lets get new ones but still use the Foxwell TPMS.
The mechanic said the wheels are good, plenty of tread and rubber still complainant ( garage kept ). He did notice a broken seal on the drivers ( see attached ) front TPMS sensor that could be the cause ( the others were fine ). FWIW - these are Wurth TPMS sensors - but might have been reused a few times.
So I got the car back yesterday and programmed the TPMS sensors. First I activated them, then I Cloned via OBD ( you can Clone via the old sensors too ). Worked well and they read what my tire pressure gauge says. Huf or Wurth sensors ( Porsche $$$ options ) are more expensive than what I bought the I50TS and sensors for .... and FWIW, OE brand TPMS for the mini are around $250.
Last edited by gauss66; Sep 21, 2023 at 09:47 AM.
Reason: add photo
