Best Scanner/Code Reseting Tool for '05 X5 3.0i?

[SBBimmer]

On my '01 X5 I have been using a Creator C310+ that I bought many years ago. It's awkward to use but seems to do most of the things I need. However, I just picked up a new-to-me '05 X5 and the Creator won't communicate with some of the modules and there are also fault codes it won't clear. I have no idea why the difference. I also have a BlueDriver, but that only reads basic engine codes on these cars.

I want a code reader I can trust and to get rid of some obsolete warnings (it would be great to be able to program my key functions too, but that would be gravy). I'm looking at the Foxwell NT510 Elite (which seems to be the same as the Schwaben scanner) and I'm aware of ISTA and K+D-CAN software, but that seems to be a bit complicated for my uses.

Can anyone share experience or knowledge on this?

Thanks.

[Fifty150hs]

Originally Posted by SBBimmer

On my '01 X5 I have been using a Creator C310+ that I bought many years ago. It's awkward to use but seems to do most of the things I need. However, I just picked up a new-to-me '05 X5 and the Creator won't communicate with some of the modules and there are also fault codes it won't clear. I have no idea why the difference. I also have a BlueDriver, but that only reads basic engine codes on these cars.

I want a code reader I can trust and to get rid of some obsolete warnings (it would be great to be able to program my key functions too, but that would be gravy). I'm looking at the Foxwell NT510 Elite (which seems to be the same as the Schwaben scanner) and I'm aware of ISTA and K+D-CAN software, but that seems to be a bit complicated for my uses.

Can anyone share experience or knowledge on this?

Thanks.

I have the Schwaben which is the same as the Foxwell NT510. I think most of us on here use the Foxwell or variant. They are the easiest to use and most convenient.

[upallnight]

I use BMW Scanner 1.4 on an old XP laptop.

[SBBimmer]

Originally Posted by upallnight

I use BMW Scanner 1.4 on an old XP laptop.

BMW Scanner looks pretty cool. Sadly I recently gave away my Windows laptop (I'm on Mac), but I guess I can scare one up for less than taking the car to the dealer to code the keys.

[upallnight]

Originally Posted by SBBimmer

BMW Scanner looks pretty cool. Sadly I recently gave away my Windows laptop (I'm on Mac), but I guess I can scare one up for less than taking the car to the dealer to code the keys.

So am I, but since all of the scanning software for a BMW is Window based, buying a used Window XP machine can be had for under $50.00.

[SBBimmer]

Has anybody tried Carly for BMW?

[RocketyMan]

I'm always going to advocate something catered towards an OEM than a "one does all" type of scanner.

If you're looking to just read and delete codes...then ya, get whatever.

If you're looking to troubleshoot and do service routines (and not technologically challenged), then get something specifically dedicated to BMW. Like K+D CAN, INPA, ISTA, BMW Scanner 1.4...etc.

FYI, I use ISTA/INPA all on a win10 machine. A little technological know-how can go a long ways.

[SBBimmer]

Originally Posted by upallnight

...buying a used Window XP machine can be had for under $50.00.

Unfortunately, around here XP machines command a premium (not much on eBay either), but that's not a deal breaker. I have seen Windows 10 drivers for BMW Scanner 1.4 as well.

I've read some bad things about Carly now, so I'm probably passing on that.

The Windows machine approach is probably the best one, but I'm an impatient bastard and Amazon is out of stock on the cable. Walmart online has it, but people say those don't work out of the box. I could get a Foxwell right now and clear the damn idiot lights, but I'm looking for other sources for the cable.

Originally Posted by rocketyman

FYI, I use ISTA/INPA all on a win10 machine. A little technological know-how can go a long ways.

I have a little, but I wouldn't say a lot, especially in the Windows world.
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[crystalworks]

Carly has its uses. Been using it for years. But also have inpa with the windows 7 suite of BMW software loaded in a laptop. And also have a foxwell nt520 pro. Use all 3 depending on what I want to do.

I don't recommend Carly though because of their current subscription model. The laptop and foxwell can certainly handle the duties. Carly has convenience on its side. Much faster than the foxwell, and obviously easier and more convenient than the laptop.

[RocketyMan]

Originally Posted by SBBimmer

I have a little, but I wouldn't say a lot, especially in the Windows world.
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I'm more than willing to help get that set up. Not just for you, but anyone casually observing this forum--really.

I am wanting to get BMW Scanner 1.4 next so I venture off with that.