Actron code reader

[Qsilver7]

Originally Posted by Boofla

I'm looking at buying an actron CP9575.
I want it to help me check error codes on X5s I'm possibly going to buy and then for maintenance of the car at home.
The question I have is can it read all error codes such as gearbox and say suspension airbag problems or does it only give engine error codes?

This is the only one local auto stores sell as far as I can find so far and need it in the next few days preferably.

Thanks guys*
Brent

Since this is the internet age...just about anything you want to know can be found with a simple google search..which I did...typing in "Actron CP9575" as the search word and this is what I found:

Standard Features:

• Compatible with ALL 1996 and newer vehicles (OBD-II & CAN).
• Read and display live engine data.
• Displays OBD-II generic and manufacturer specific definitions on screen.
• Read and display MIL status.
• Read and erase diagnostic trouble codes.
• Tools gives visual indication when it is trying to communicate and retrieve data from an OBD-II vehicle.
• Read and display I/M monitors (emissions).
• Reads and displays freeze frame data.
• Read and display pending DTCs.
• Read and display freeze frame data (snapshot of vehicle data at the time of the fault).
• Read and display VIN number, CVN, and Cal ID.
• Display State OBD check.
• Display OBD-II Drive Cycle Mode.
• Field updateable via USB port.
• CE certification.
• Trilingual menu, manual and definitions (English, Spanish, French).
• System setup menu includes language setup, unit of measure, display test, keypad test, memory test, tool information and program mode.
• Effortlessly powered by car battery through the 16-pin OBD-II connector.

This is obviously not a "junk" scanner based on the description and specs listed above...but is just a regular OBD II scanner which would be helpful for SERVICE ENGINE SOON/CHECK ENGINE LIGHT issues which are electronic engine emission issues. This seems to be where you're confused or are in need of enlightenment as to the difference between OBD II (onBoard Diagnostics) diagnostic trouble codes (DTC) versus the ability to communicate with the BMW proprietary BUS system.


No, this scanner can NOT read ALL error codes such as air suspension and gear box codes because this scanner was designed only to read OBD II codes...which again are only electronic engine emission codes that many countries have mandated as a common system for ALL car manufacturers to meet to help with air pollution.

AKE53 did give you a link to info about some aftermarket software/hardware that will allow you to communicate with the BMW proprietary communication BUS.

Again, OBD II is for emissions and only has limited access to a few BMW control modules...see illustration below:

If you want to communicate with ALL the control modules in your car...you will either need BMW DIS/GT-1 equipment...or aftermarket software/hardware that will allow you to communicate with the entire BUS system (see topological chart below of the BUS system used in the e53). Also note how OBD II connectivity is ONLY on the TXD II line & only has limited communication with the car's BUS system: