[Eclark5221]

New to BMW trying to find the best general code reader/scanner for 2011 BMW X3 28I.

Have looked here and could not find anything on this.

[richardodn]

I'm in the same boat as you right now. I've seen references to the Foxwell NT510/NT520 with BMW software or the Schwaben tool (sold by ecstuning) that is a custom version of one of the Foxwell units. I don't know which is best or what the differences are. But that's something to start looking at. Maybe someone around here has some personal experience with one of them.

[Eclark5221]

After looking around I'm going the same way looking at getting the NT520 with BMW preloaded.
Bad part is finding a printed repair Manuel have found one from this forum that is online.

[tracer bullet]

Check out the Carly adapter & app, it might do what you are looking for? If yes, it's cheaper and has other capabilities as well.

[richardodn]

The Carly app and hardware will run you about $60 for the OBD2 dongle + another $60/year subscription for the app. You may of course cancel the subscription at any time but I doubt there's a pro-rated refund. This Amazon review pretty much lays out the pros and cons: https://www.amazon.com/gp/customer-r...SIN=B0187HPAOS

[Wgosma]

Here's another app:

- BimmerLink (fault codes)
- Bimmercode (coding)

[Eclark5221]

Because of problems have ordered my Foxwell NT520, now waiting or it to arrive. Will check everyone updated.

[Bilbofraggins]

Foxwell NT520 Pro...adding additional vehicle manufacturers is cost effective with more than just BMWs in the family.

A friends Carly setup could not even talk to 2 (E71 and F25) of our 3 BMW’s (only an E90). I also read about disasters using it (after researching why it would not connect). It was the latest Carly tool.

Also found that some D-Can eBay/Amazon cables can also cause nasty probs going the BMW software laptop route...I’m researching that step at the moment. But very happy with the Foxwell.

[richardodn]

For F & G chassis cars and laptop software you'll need a E-sys cable. This is an ethernet to OBD port cable. I am personally running this one: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07CKGPSS6

Getting the E-Sys software setup and working is not trivial but there are lots of resources out there. At some point I'll get the 520 for DTC and maintenance support.

[ArrrH]

I’ve been using the Foxwell NT510 and it works good for me so far with a 2007 e90 and 2015 F25.

[tracer bullet]

Carly's worked on both my E82 1-Series and F25 X3. I'm sure the Foxwell will serve you well, but wanted to say that Carly does indeed work for us. I've also never had any issues and have used it many times.

[Eclark5221]

Received my NT520 this morning, only problem is can't get the Foxwelltech page to give me a Foxwell ID so I can register it and update it to help get the VVT and CVT reset.
So until I can get the Foxwell ID and update this NT520 is little more than a paper weight for me.

Guess I should have gone with Autel MX808 that I could buy from local O'Reilly auto parts store.
Live and learn.

[Bilbofraggins]

I recall a bit of trouble registering...did you get product serial number and password of the unit from the “About” screen... simple once you do that...Page 38/39 of the included manual. Good luck..

[Eclark5221]

Have been trying to get a Foxwell ID from two different devices and it just keeps timing out of connection, looking like I might be returning it to them and getting the Autel MK808 from my local parts store.

[Bilbofraggins]

Did you hook it up to the obd port...select about icon... snap a pic... I think you can also get the about screen connected to the computer...Once you have done that... your off...Not sure what you mean by it times out...

I just hooked it up to the computer... it powers on... then setup.. then about....pics to follow...

[Bilbofraggins]

Screenshots hooked to computer.

[Eclark5221]

That is not the problem the problem is that I can't get Foxwell support to give me a Foxwell ID to get the support you are showing.

[Bilbofraggins]

So you tried to register for an account...but it would not let you..so no confirmatory email.
Can't say, I had a problem with that...if I understand

Page 44, says you can also register and create a Foxwell ID on the scanner computer app...although I did not do it that way....an option perhaps to try...Time for another beer...

[Eclark5221]

Finial was able to get ID and register tool, then tried it on my 20111 BMW X3 28i, and found it will not do what they say it would do for my auto.
Was able to register new battery but it says there is no engine reset for this car.
That is after it will even read the Vin under auto detect mode.
It also does not find any code even after the car says there is start problem.
So looks like this tool will not do what they say it will do for this BMW X3.
Have even talked to another company about there tool and he said he would recommend the Foxwell NT520 for most people that are having problems like mine.

[Clayman71]

Hello all,

Sorry if this has been posted and I missed it. Looking for an OBDII (that won't break the bank) for work on a 2012 X3 x35i.

I need one that can clear adaptations (so that I can change the front and rear diff fluid and transfer oil), and also retract/return the brake calipers for brake pad replacement.

Can't seem to get a clear picture as to whether any of the following units are capable of both of those functions:

* Creator C501
* Foxwell NT501
* Schwaben Professional BMW Scan Tool (seems to be the same unit as the Foxwell NT501 if you look at the manual)

Only worked on E46s before now so adaptations and rotating brake caliper pistons is new ground.

Thanks for any input.