What code reader tool do I need?

[txskibum_bmw]

Hi all

I have a 2007 land rover that I do all my own work on. I need a special code reader to do most repairs and clear special engine codes.

My x1 will be going out of warranty in the next few months. I will keep it a long time and try to do all my own work and diagnosing.

Do you think I will need a special code reader to do work on the car, or does a standard code reader do the trick? If yes, what would you recommend?

[Gamb1t]

I use Torque app with Android for general OBDII codes.
There is also iCarly's BMWwhat app that has specific codes and functions.

For the more hardcore type there are the INPA, ISTA D+ etc wizardry. Someone with more experience can chime in on this.

[vstolpner]

+1 on Torque and BMWhat. (Assuming you're using Android)

For Torque you need a cheap ELM327 Bluetooth adapter and that will show you most error codes and let you reset them. For more stuff (and I mean way more stuff) you should go for BMWhat but you need their specialised adapter which isn't cheap, plus the price of the app.

BMWhat will allow you to code some changes to the way certain parts of the car behave, but will also give you more error codes and can read every computer in the car (there are lots). You'll also be able to do things like reset battery when you replace it (otherwise you could kill the battery in no time).
Take a look at the website for more details.

If you have iPhone then BMWhat will need a WiFi adapter (Android uses Bluetooth). Not sure about Torque alternatives for iPhone.

The other suggestions are very technical and can damage the ECU if you don't know what you're doing. But if you're a technical person and like tinkering then that's the way to go.

[derekmines]

I just bought the INPA kit from a seller called bcables on e-bay, having some issues getting it connected to the car at the moment but the quality seems excellent.