OBD tools

T77911S · 03-09-2020, 06:31 AM

my BMW 330 has all three lights on, brake, tire and traction control.

I think it is the steering sensor because my headlights no longer move when I turn the wheel. also had codes checked and no codes.
the other thing is all 3 come on when the car is started, before it has moved but I DO get a beep just after moving like there is another fault.

the steering angle sensor SAS has to be calibrated if replaced. also I could try recalibrating it. I saw these OBD scanners that can do but I would also like to be able to look at live data when driving.

what do you think of these 2

FOXWELL NT650 Automotive Code Reader Obd2 Service Diagnostic Scan Tool

much more expensive but if I have to pay someone to calibrate the SAS this one may be worth it, but not sure what else I get for the $$

Foxwell NT644 Pro Scanner All-system 60+make with Special Functions(EPB/ABS/SRS/DPF/SAS/Oil Reset)

rusnak · 03-09-2020, 06:34 AM

Try starting the motor, crank the steering wheel all the way to the left or right stop, turn all the way to the opposite stop, then center the steering wheel, turn off ignition and remove the key.

Geronimo '74 · 03-09-2020, 06:36 AM

I bought the Carly dongle (Carly for BMW) and the Carly app (which is free except for a cheap monthly subscription)

It reads out all codes, live data from various sensors, unlocks features that are not activated... ((Not sure about your particular problem)
Dongle was about 60 dollars, same amount for the app subscription.

Worth checking out. I'm happy with it.

You can opt for a version which reads all car brands. (is an extra 20 dollars or so)

widebody911 · widebody911's Garage

The Carly seems to be the most popular, but they've moved to a SAAS pricing model so it's $85 (IIRC) per year now.

fastfredracing · 03-09-2020, 07:59 AM

Id be surprised if you can code a steering angle sensor with an inexpensive code reader . It only recently was added to higher end scanners , in maybe the last 2-3 years .

Tim L · 03-09-2020, 08:27 AM

I changed my SAS on a 2010 X3 and haven't been able to reprogram it with several different scanners. Good luck.

asphaltgambler · 03-09-2020, 08:36 AM

Pretty sure you'll need an OE spec scan / program tool. Only aftermarket scanner to program is Autel pro-grade software.

legion · 03-09-2020, 09:05 AM

I have a $10 scanner from Amazon. For my purposes, it's perfect.

My wife's minivan three a check engine light a few months ago. I checked the code, and it said "evaporative emission system leak". I tightened the gas cap and cleared the code.

I generally use the scanner to determine if it is something that I should attempt to fix myself or take to a pro.

fastfredracing · 03-09-2020, 09:16 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by asphaltgambler

Pretty sure you'll need an OE spec scan / program tool. Only aftermarket scanner to program is Autel pro-grade software.

Autel does it, but I was also surprised to see that 2 updates ago, that became available for my snap on scanner .

T77911S · 03-09-2020, 10:28 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Tim L

I changed my SAS on a 2010 X3 and haven't been able to reprogram it with several different scanners. Good luck.

i saw a video of guy doing it with the 650.

my brother has the 520 and used it on his range rover and it worked.
the 520 I see has more features but you have to buy additional cars. but I only have a Honda and Mercedes I could use it on

WPOZZZ · 03-09-2020, 11:41 AM

I have the NT510 and have seen the menu to calibrate the SAS, but have never used it.

asphaltgambler · 03-09-2020, 11:47 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by fastfredracing

Autel does it, but I was also surprised to see that 2 updates ago, that became available for my snap on scanner .

Really? Wow - did not know that. Question is what's the Snap-on update price?

BReif61 · 03-09-2020, 11:58 AM

You can download free copies of INPA and ISTA from Bimmergeeks. Those two software packages will let you accurately troubleshoot your problem and perform and recalibrations you might have to do.

fastfredracing · 03-09-2020, 12:00 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by asphaltgambler

Really? Wow - did not know that. Question is what's the Snap-on update price?

2k a year. Its totally nuts . On top of the crazy expensive entry price

cashman · 03-09-2020, 01:19 PM

I have the Foxwell 510 ($130) and it has probably saved me $1,000 in 4 months. One function I used was to calibrate the Vanos. I know I have a steering wheel calibration However not all functions work on every model for some reason. Well worth the $130 to me.