Recommended scan tool

[M3Giovan]

what is a good scan tool to have to ck error codes., before ordering one wanted to see what you all have at home that works.
thanks!

[Tbonem3]

Do you just want a cheap thing? You can get a little blu tooth obd2 dongle off ebay for $5 and pair with free version of torque app.

Or you could buy a $200 foxwell/schwaben that is even better code-wise, but also checks emissions readiness AND can do cool things like activate ABS or SMG for bleeding.

If you good with computers, you can do that stuff for fairly cheap with a obd2 cable off ebay (like $15) AND the software suite - looka round for how to download tools. Then you have free tools like Martyn's to check codes/adaptations/reset and also an even more advanced one from Martyn to turn things on and off like emissions monitors and SMG RPM lights.

[M3Giovan]

would this be a good option?

[Cubieman]

would this be a good option?

Yes, but I would highly recommend simply buying a 2nd hand laptop/bimmergeeks.com pro cable and get INPA going, so much more you can do.

If you don't want to figure out how to load INPA as suggested above Martyn's (free) "DME Ultility Tool" will read codes/read&reset adaptations, you just need a laptop and a KDCAN USB cable and basically zero computer experience.

https://www.ecuworx.co.uk/downloads/

[Tbonem3]

I bought that schwaben tool at $140 and even then I thought it was a little pricey. At $230, I'd only recommend if you absolutely cannot use a laptop and cable.

[M3Giovan]

Awesome info, thank you!
Will go w/ the pro cable and INPA

https://www.ecuworx.co.uk/downloads/ = how do I check that the file is correct for my ECU/DME ???

[eacmen]

Wait for the schwaben tool to go on sale used or black friday.

[Cubieman]

Awesome info, thank you!
Will go w/ the pro cable and INPA

https://www.ecuworx.co.uk/downloads/ = how do I check that the file is correct for my ECU/DME ???

Get this one.

The ONLY thing you must do besides getting the free program and cable is to set your USB cable to "COM1" and the lowest "Latency" available, its easy and I can help you.

You do this through device manager on windows, if you need help either watch a YouTube video or list what version of windows you have and I will tell you how to set up your USB cable.

Edit: If you want INPA, download "standard tools" from here and follow instructions. It isn't very difficult, you will also then have other programs like NCS etc, but forget that, INPA is your diagnostics.

Also, if buying a laptop make sure its running Windows XP, 7 or 10, I personally run Windows 7 32Bit for INPA/ISTA/DIS but these will work on other versions. Basically just don't run windows 8.

If you don't want the chance of frustration just get the free software at ECUWORX, USB cable (recommend bimmergeeks pro, yes more $, any KDCAN will work) then "set up" the USB cable for COM1 and lowest latency.

[eacmen]

Be sure to get an INPA cable that has a switch that allows you to easily short pins 7+8. Or be handy with a soldering iron.