Code Scanner Options

[tynashracing]

I'd like to know my options for code scanners? I have 3 BMWs: e53, e46, e36
I enjoy playing detective work on my vehicles and fixing whenever I can. However, I'm not looking to spend thousands on a diagnostic system.

I know from reading here that the GT1 is the bomb and must be bmw specific...but I'm not sure what's really involved in getting it setup as well as the cost of the system. Does the program run on any windows based OS or does it require a particular package?
I have a couple of older laptops, one with windows XP and another with Vista. I could dedicate either of these.

Would a small handheld unit from Autozone or other parts places be OK? If so, is there a particular model that's more accurate for BMW's?

Just recently, I saw a thread that mentioned an app for android phones called Torque. Would this be as good as any of the hand held units that are not BMW specific? Obviously, this is a really low cost option and may be all I really need to get me going?!

I'd like to see the recommendations from all the veteran code chasers out there. When listing your recommendation(s), please also include:
package cost (program and any hardware required)
functionality (specific for bmw or generic)
ease of use (any weekend warrior can use or requires training/education)
source for purchasing

Thanks!

[diyanich]

Hi,
I've got one off eBay from this guy
BMW USB OBD Diagnostic cable INPA Ediabas DIS v57 SSS v32 Progman GT1 | eBay
So..I was able to assemble a desktop in my garage(was yet cheaper than a decent laptop)
My X is 2000 so I have to use a 20 pin adapter to plug it under the hood.I had to solder a cable to one of the pins because my Ignition wasn't recognized.But after that tweaking I've got it working.Although I am still missing some functionality(if I go for deeper module diagnosis,some modules connected to the pin 17 aren't responding) but I don't really need that figured out for now.

Originally Posted by tynashracing

I'd like to know my options for code scanners? I have 3 BMWs: e53, e46, e36
I enjoy playing detective work on my vehicles and fixing whenever I can. However, I'm not looking to spend thousands on a diagnostic system.

I know from reading here that the GT1 is the bomb and must be bmw specific...but I'm not sure what's really involved in getting it setup as well as the cost of the system. Does the program run on any windows based OS or does it require a particular package?
I have a couple of older laptops, one with windows XP and another with Vista. I could dedicate either of these.

Would a small handheld unit from Autozone or other parts places be OK? If so, is there a particular model that's more accurate for BMW's?

Just recently, I saw a thread that mentioned an app for android phones called Torque. Would this be as good as any of the hand held units that are not BMW specific? Obviously, this is a really low cost option and may be all I really need to get me going?!

I'd like to see the recommendations from all the veteran code chasers out there. When listing your recommendation(s), please also include:
package cost (program and any hardware required)
functionality (specific for bmw or generic)
ease of use (any weekend warrior can use or requires training/education)
source for purchasing

Thanks!

[rfdude]

i literally just picked up the bmw scanner v1.4.0.6 PA Soft off of kijiji for $35 and works like a charm. here it is on ebay:
BMW Scanner 1.4.0 PA SOFT 1.4 1.40 Diagnostic EEPROM ECU EWS LCM IKE DME | eBay

I have an i7 64bit running windows 7 and works no problem. Cheap and very effective if you have a laptop handy.

here is a link of what you can do with it:

http://www.bmw-scanner.com/?page=bmw-scanner_v140

Good luck!

Bill