Obd2 scanner

[m4282]

Hi all quick question- what obd2 scanner are most people using here for their m3/4 - wanted to pick one up and figure I ask what's the best or most common one? Thx

[BuLoOoSki]

If you're looking for a portable handheld OBD scanner then I think most will do the same thing. If you are looking for something that is specific for BMW with detailed accurate explanations of the codes you should look into using Rheingold, which is what I use. However will require a laptop and an ENET cable (OBDII to Ethernet cable).

[m4282]

Originally Posted by BuLoOoSki

If you're looking for a portable handheld OBD scanner then I think most will do the same thing. If you are looking for something that is specific for BMW with detailed accurate explanations of the codes you should look into using Rheingold, which is what I use. However will require a laptop and an ENET cable (OBDII to Ethernet cable).

Thanks I was thinking of this one? Don't need something super complicated but enough so that I can see what's happening and not rely on a dealership telling me in case of an issue

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01M4R5Z4L..._BZWdzbE0R4KW5

[CaryTheLabelGuy]

Get a OBDII wifi or Bluetooth dongle like the V-Link (there are others out there that work, but this is what I personally use) and buy the BimmerLink app for iOS. If on Android, I've heard the Carly app works decent on BMW's as well.

Me personally, I use ISTA/D (aka Rheingold) for most things and especially troubleshooting as this is the factory service software and does anything and everything you'd need. This requires a laptop and a ENET cable and of course the software.

If you ever decide to get tuned, there are several options (piggyback and flash tunes) that feature scan tools. I use BM3 to scan and clear codes, the OBDII scanner is part of the flashing suite and works great for quick scans and clearing and also has an option for clearing DME adaptations. The JB4 piggyback also has a decent OBDII scan tool as well.

[BuLoOoSki]

Originally Posted by m4282

Thanks I was thinking of this one? Don't need something super complicated but enough so that I can see what's happening and not rely on a dealership telling me in case of an issue

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01M4R5Z4L..._BZWdzbE0R4KW5

Honestly don't have much experience with handheld scanners. Before Rheingold I used Bavarian Technic Tool for my E92, which I don't recommend for the F80. But I hear that Autel makes decent scanners, you can find different versions of them on Amazon and see which suits your needs.