Recommendations for Code Reader?

[MartyZ4]

I'm using ODBLink MX+ to read codes on my 2014 Z4 28i, however it doesn't display power roof failure codes - I'm having issues with a roof which gets stuck halfway through the folding process. BMW diagnosed the issue as a failed hall monitor code A696 - my ODBLink MX+ showed no codes. I've now replaced both rear hall sensors (using 1-Series sensors), however that did not resolve the issue. My reader still shows no failure codes.

So I'm wondering if anyone has a suggestion for a reader that's known to be better on our cars, that reports BMW specific codes,so I can continue to troubleshoot my roof issue?

Thank you!

[javis20]

If you have an android phone, go with BimmerGeeks Protool. Otherwise maybe a Foxwell NT 530

[B21]

Originally Posted by javis20

If you have an android phone, go with BimmerGeeks Protool. Otherwise maybe a Foxwell NT 530

[MartyZ4]

Exactly what I was looking for - many thanks, javis20 & B21 ! Have ordered the BT adaptor for Protocol.

[javis20]

I'm using a cheap ebay K+DCAN cable (version with switch). Just added a usb to usbc adapter to plug it into my phone. Works fine.

[RobbiZ4]

Originally Posted by MartyZ4

code A696
I've now replaced both rear hall sensors (using 1-Series sensors), however that did not resolve the issue.

Well, this is the absolute correct method to solve this A696 issue. Might be there is another one present, sometimes without storing a code.

[MartyZ4]

Thanks, as always, RobbiZ4 ! I suspect there's something more going on, perhaps an issue with wiring continuity - hopefully the new reader provides some insight (now, to learn how to test continuity!).

[John Tanglewoo]

Originally Posted by MartyZ4

I'm using ODBLink MX+ to read codes on my 2014 Z4 28i, however it doesn't display power roof failure codes - I'm having issues with a roof which gets stuck halfway through the folding process. BMW diagnosed the issue as a failed hall monitor code A696 - my ODBLink MX+ showed no codes. I've now replaced both rear hall sensors (using 1-Series sensors), however that did not resolve the issue. My reader still shows no failure codes.

So I'm wondering if anyone has a suggestion for a reader that's known to be better on our cars, that reports BMW specific codes,so I can continue to troubleshoot my roof issue?

Thank you!

You might want to consider dedicated BMW diagnostic tools like Carly or Bavarian Technic. These tools often provide more in-depth access to manufacturer-specific codes and system information.

But before investing in a new tool, you could also try reaching out to ODBLink's customer support. They might have insights or firmware updates that could enhance compatibility with BMW-specific codes.

[Jakeinaka]

Originally Posted by javis20

If you have an android phone, go with BimmerGeeks Protool. Otherwise maybe a Foxwell NT 530

Does Protool have advantages over Bimmercode/link?
I use the latter and it seems OK. It will not code some things like VO however.

[B21]

Originally Posted by Jakeinaka

Does Protool have advantages over Bimmercode/link?
I use the latter and it seems OK. It will not code some things like VO however.

In the continuum where ISTA is 100% Protool seems to be about 85%..then the rest are behind that ..Carly at 25%..FWIW

[javis20]

Protool is basically ISTA with a great interface, but without ISTA's step by step troubleshooting. ProTool Bimmergeeks people are very responsive to emails. If they don/t have a preprogramed function for what you want to do, they will help you do it thru expert mode and then add the function when they get a chance. Unfortunately it doesn't work with iPhones, but they are working on that.

[Jakeinaka]

Something you can try out with android phone and an OBD bt adapter, Car Scanner ELM OBD2. Free app but can be upgraded for I think $5 (according to the reviews).
I tried it earlier, got the same results as Bimmerlink.

[javis20]

Originally Posted by Jakeinaka

Something you can try out with android phone and an OBD bt adapter, Car Scanner ELM OBD2. Free app but can be upgraded for I think $5 (according to the reviews).
I tried it earlier, got the same results as Bimmerlink.

But does it report BMW specific codes, as in roof codes.

[Jakeinaka]

Originally Posted by javis20

But does it report BMW specific codes, as in roof codes.

I doubt it, can't say that singular issue keeps me awake at night.
What it should do is find most other faults which are far more frequent, and do the same on a variety of other cars.

I personally use Bimmerlink which I bought long before my Z4.

[B21]

Originally Posted by Jakeinaka

I doubt it, can't say that singular issue keeps me awake at night.
What it should do is find most other faults which are far more frequent, and do the same on a variety of other cars.

I personally use Bimmerlink which I bought long before my Z4.

FWIW generic code readers miss the vast majority of Z4 faults as so many faults are not powertrain directly related.

In addition even for the powertrain the reported codes are often misleading in their analysis.

But each to their own…

[Jakeinaka]

Originally Posted by B21

FWIW generic code readers miss the vast majority of Z4 faults as so many faults are not powertrain directly related.

In addition even for the powertrain the reported codes are often misleading in their analysis.

But each to their own…

I agree, and FWIW, many Z4 or indeed BMW owners don't understand "codes" and would go directly to the dealer for the bend over treatment

I wonder how the expensive options perform with E89... Autel?
I bought an Autel unit for mine, maybe would have been OK if it included the N20 engine variant (correct at the time of testing) but it didn't. It went back.

So yes, to each his own. As far as I'm concerned all viable options are on the table.

[javis20]

Originally Posted by Jakeinaka

I doubt it, can't say that singular issue keeps me awake at night.
What it should do is find most other faults which are far more frequent, and do the same on a variety of other cars.
.

It should. Convertible hardtop issues are very frequent and difficult to diagnose without the proper code reader. The top malfunctions due to microswitches, hall sensors and broken wires.

[Jakeinaka]

Originally Posted by javis20

It should. Convertible hardtop issues are very frequent and difficult to diagnose without the proper code reader. The top malfunctions due to microswitches, hall sensors and broken wires.

It shouldn't. If you really need a code reader, it's unlikely you will be able to fix the problem.

[B21]

Originally Posted by Jakeinaka

It shouldn't. If you really need a code reader, it's unlikely you will be able to fix the problem.

That’s incorrect..with a good code reader you can work out what has most likely failed..many of those can be then fixed by a competent home mechanic…plus you can monitor / operate /code a variety of bmw specific functions..for EFB, injectors, boot release etc..

[javis20]

Originally Posted by Jakeinaka

It shouldn't. If you really need a code reader, it's unlikely you will be able to fix the problem.

You actually believe that?

[Jakeinaka]

Originally Posted by javis20

You actually believe that?

Yep, do you know how many BMW drivers have never maintained a car? You seem to assume ALL BMW drivers are members of this or any other forum?
So yes, I do believe that. Plenty of older people drive BMW cars don't ya know.