Recommendations for a simple OBD scanner

[bimmerguy 6]

Make: BMW

Model: 116i

Year: 2010

Chassis: E87

I'd like to buy an OBD scanner so I can learn how to use one and start using it when necessary. Before I go about buying something, I am keen to get some recommendations and your experiences on how useful it is. 

[bimmerguy 6]

Came across this one. A BLE based and a cheap one but not sure how good it is though.

[Antallica 15]

I got one of those Carly scanners and it's great.

Edited July 29, 2023 by Antallica

[bimmerguy 6]

@Antallica, the carly scanners looks pretty good. Which package did you get, the basic or the premium one?

Looks like the premium one has a lot more features but not sure how useful they may be as of now.

 

[bimmerguy 6]

I think Carly will always have me paranoid about my car with those many potential issues showing up in the app!🤣

[Antallica 15]

1 hour ago, bimmerguy said:

@Antallica, the carly scanners looks pretty good. Which package did you get, the basic or the premium one?

Looks like the premium one has a lot more features but not sure how useful they may be as of now.

 

Got the highest one without the smart mechanic, so much to play around with

[E90 learner 2]

Go ista or inpa. Blaming myself for not using it sooner. 

[M3AN 4015]

Hang on a sec, isn't Carly an annual subscription now? If that's still the case then it's a rip-off, avoid.

ISTA/INPA/DIS are not really "simple" solutions unless you buy a complete preconfigured setup, computer and all, and that's a risk in itself.

• For code reading and diagnostics you want BimmerLink: https://www.bimmerlink.app/
• For coding you want BimmerCode: https://bimmercode.app/

Admittedly I've not checked any prices recently, things may have changed, do your own research of course.

 

[bimmerguy 6]

@M3AN, which OBD adaptor do you use?

I wanted to buy Carly but just found it to be too expensive.

[M3AN 4015]

3 minutes ago, bimmerguy said:

@M3AN, which OBD adaptor do you use?

I just got a compatible one off Amazon, it was years ago now though. Just research online, you'll find what you need.

 

Edited August 17, 2023 by M3AN

[Jacko 2078]

Bimmmmmeerrrgeeks. Its legit and not flaky at all. 

 

Carly is utter trash, and expensive trash. 

[bimmerguy 6]

Finally, decided to grab this one . 

Works with bimmer code!