[sunjas]

Hi All,

Another coding question (no doubt there are loads already on the forum):

Just wanted to ask from people's experiences which coding software is best (and easiest) to use, i.e. Bimmercode or Carly or another?

Also do you have to use the recommended Bluetooth adaptors for each, or will a 'generic OBD2' Bluetooth adaptor work just as well? For example, something like this:

https://www.gearbest.com/car-gadgets...ml?wid=1433363

Can anyone recommend a relatively cheap Android OBD2 Bluetooth adaptor that will work with either Bimmercode or Carly (or both)?


Thanks.

[Chris_340i]

I use the carly app and carly adapter. I'm not sure on its quality but seems straight forward to use.

The carly adapters are about £60 on Amazon.

I have heard that Carly are slow at updating the ECU's when BMW update their software.

[Russbmw]

Can't comment on Bimmercode, but heard good things.

Carly, you're better off paying for the genuine adaptor (I did) - with generic ones, they can often not fully communicate with all ECU's. You won't know until you've tried.

Personally, I don't think it's worth skimping on the adapter for either - you're going to be fucking about with the brains of your car, so you want proper/decent and stable communication between the adapter and your phone to minimise the risk of something screwing up. Any cost will be offset by the savings you'll be making by doing codings yourself.

[andyhazza]

I've only used BimmerCode. After some initially faffing around connecting to the OBD adaptor, it's very easy to use. There are a few decent YouTube videos too if you get stuck.

[teaston]

Definitely Bimmercode

You only need a cheap adapter like this one for F series cars:

https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B075MBZ8..._LcKfDbTJFDD9V

[RENT-A-GOAT]

Another Vote for BimmerCode here and also the other app for fault diagnosis and new battery coding BimmerLink

[SkyJawa]

Bimmercode over Carly

[Watsey]

Another preference for BimmerCode for coding. I've used both.

[APJ]

Yep, another for Bimmercode, very easy to use

[Steve_M_Sport]

Originally Posted by teaston

Definitely Bimmercode

You only need a cheap adapter like this one for F series cars:

https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B075MBZ8..._LcKfDbTJFDD9V

Is this as good as a Bluetooth one or is there no practical difference in how Bimmercode works with either set up ?

[teaston]

Originally Posted by Steve_M_Sport

Is this as good as a Bluetooth one or is there no practical difference in how Bimmercode works with either set up ?

Yes it functions the same, except you have to go into wifi settings in your phone and connect to its wifi before opening the app, whereas a BT one just connects automatically.

[bishbosh]

Esys and ista for me, because it was free and I'm a tight arse adopted Yorkshireman.

[Mikesmith2939]

I use Bimmercode and on the odd occasion where things didn't go to plan I requested help from the app and Stephan the developer was very quick in his response and resolved the issue. Requesting support from the app sends the data logs as well so he can see exactly what has happened.

Also Bimmercode is a one off payment where Carly is an annual subscription.

[RENT-A-GOAT]

I use this Bluetooth dongle for both BimmerCode & BimmerLink works flawlessly with both iPhone & iPad just charge either to 100% put into aeroplane mode then connect to dongle via BT.

[BIFCAIDS]

DD Coding, he's brilliant.

[Steve_M_Sport]

Originally Posted by bishbosh

Esys and ista for me, because it was free and I'm a tight arse adopted Yorkshireman.

I’ve downloaded the latest Esys software but for the life of me can’t get the Launcher to work - I previously coded 4 F31’s without problem but this has me beaten at the moment. Hence why I am tempted by Bimmercode & a dongle.

[Russbmw]

Originally Posted by Mikesmith2939

I use Bimmercode and on the odd occasion where things didn't go to plan I requested help from the app and Stephan the developer was very quick in his response and resolved the issue. Requesting support from the app sends the data logs as well so he can see exactly what has happened.

Also Bimmercode is a one off payment where Carly is an annual subscription.

Yeah, thats the reason I'm still using Carly- becuase I've had it that long that my full version was free.

I agree, I wouldn't pay £60 annually or whatever now, that's daft.