9 Best BMW Scan Tools Review 2023

If you are a BMW car owner, you need a solid BMW Scanner to check out the health of all the major features of your car. And don’t assume just any scanner will work for all the features in your car. Many scanners will advertise multiple OBD2 special features, but those features aren’t compatible with your BMW.

So here’s a look at 9 BMW Scan Tools that cover a variety of features for your BMW model.

Best BMW Scan Tools

Editor's Picks	Products	Our Rating
Best Overall	ANCEL FX2000 OBD2 BMW	9.5/10
Runner Up	FOXWELL NT510 BMW	9.5/10
Best Budget Buy	Carista OBD2 BMW	8.5/10
Best Value	AUTOPHIX 7810 Full-System	8.5/10
Also Great	MAOZUA V7.7 Creator C310Plus	7.5/10

1. ANCEL FX2000 OBD2 BMW Scanner

If your BMW was built in 2005 or later, check out the ANCEL FX2000 diagnostic scanner. Because, while the FX2000 works for most cars built after 1996, the major OBDII features only work for BMW’s made after 2005.

Moreover, this FX2000 can read and erase fault codes, perform diagnostics, and make full determinations for your car’s Engine, SRS, ABS, and transmission system. And for the ABS system, this BMW diagnostic tool performs bi-directional tests to determine what issues are there.

For instance, Run multiple specific functions, including I/M readiness testing for emissions, O2 Sensor testing, EVAP testing, On-Board monitor testing, and more.

You can also run and graph live data for the major operating systems and print reports that break down the status of your car.

Above all, the FX2000 is compatible with most major OBD2 protocols inside BMWs.

Who’s It For?

BMW car owners and mechanics who want the ability to perform multiple advanced OBD2 tasks on their vehicles.

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2. FOXWELL NT510 BMW Car Scan Tool

Let’s kick things off with a bang. So the best BMW scan tool might be the FOXWELL NT510.

This high-level scanner reads and clears codes for all your BMW’s major systems. These systems include the engine, transmission, ABS, and SRS systems. But the NT510 also works to diagnose issues with your TPMS, SZL, DISA, EPB, DPF, DSC systems, and more. You can also access live data and graphs with this model.

In addition, the NT510 is bidirectional, allowing you to start and control your BMW’s systems for active testing. Other advanced features include oil reset, brake deactivation, control service interval resets, DPF regenerations, A/C troubleshooting, battery registrations, throttle body adjustment, and more.

Above all, the rugged build to the NT510 makes it durable in any garage or body shop. This BMW scanner works with most any BMW model since 1987 and is compatible with all major BMW protocols.

Who’s It For?

Professional mechanics or car owners who regularly work on BMWs.

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3. Carista OBD2 BMW Code Reader

For a BMW Scanner that turns your phone or tablet into a diagnostic tool, check out Carista and its high functioning app.

This Carista OBD2 Adapter offers support to all car makes and models in terms of checking engine light. And this Bluetooth tool can scan ABS/SRS lights, switch off oil lights, and reprogram the key fobs. While advanced features are only supported at a manufacturer-specific level, BMW is one of the models Carista supports for advanced features.

Above all, models of BMW’s supported by Carista include multiple models in 1-series through 7-series, 1-M, M2 through M6, i3, i8, X1, X3, X6, X5-M through X6-M, Z3-4, Z8, and mini. And the Carista supports all major OBDII protocols.

Who’s it For?

For car owners and mechanics who regularly work on BMWs but have other devices to compliment it

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4. AUTOPHIX 7810 Full-System Scan Tool

For the money, the best OBD2 scanner for BMW might be the Autophix 7810.

Bescause this scan tool works at a professional level with multiple functions for car experts. These include resetting your ECU, DPF regeneration, DME/DDE, electrical parking brake, and steering angle sensor among others.

The 7810 also performs standard operations, such as reading and clearing codes for basic systems like your engine, ABS, and SRS systems. So, after checking the codes, the 7810 offers “Repair Solutions,” a step by step guide providing verified fixes, repair costs, and step-by-step videos once an issue has been identified.

And the 7810 offers full OBD2 diagnosis with the ability to read live data, test for emissions with I/M readiness testing, and perform EVAP testing.

Also, compatible cars include the following models:

• E81-82-87-88 and F20-21 Chassis
• E38-65-66-67-68 and F01-02-03-04 Chassis
• E63-64, F06 and F12-13 Chassis
• E39-60-61, F07-10-11-18 Chassis
• E46-90-91-92-93,F30-31-34-35-80 Chassis
• F22-23 and F45-F46 Chassis
• F32-33-36 and F82-83 Chassis
• Series: I3-01 and I8-12 Chassis
• MINI: R50-52-53-55-56-57-58-59-60-61 and F54-55-56 Chassis
• Rolls-Royce: RR1-2-3-4-5 Chassis
• Series X: 1 (E84 and F48); 3 (E83 and F25); 4 (F26); 5 (E53 and 70, F15 and F85); and 6 (E71-72, F16-86)
• Series Z: 3 (E36); 4 (E85-86), 4 (E8) and 8 (E52)

The 7810 is also compatible with all major OBD-II protocols.

Who’s It For?

For professionals and DIYers on a budget who want advanced functions at an affordable price.

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5. MAOZUA V7.7 Creator C310Plus Code Reader

If all you need is a scanner that will read and clear trouble codes, check out the Maozua Creator C310Plus.

Moreover, the Creator C310Plus reads and clears codes for the engine, ABS, and SRS systems in your BMW. Users can also display live data in easy to read graph form. And you can also perform an engine oil reset.

In addition, the clear LCD display is easy to read, and data can be read in three different languages.

The C310Plus is compatible with BMW’s built between 1997-2000 (if you have a 20 pin adaptor). Similarly, for car models made after 2001, the following models are compatible:

• E81-87-88 (Series 1)
• Z3 (E36), 3’ (E46-90-91-92-93) (Series 3)
• E93, E60, E61, GT (F07), and F10-11 (Series 5)
• E63, E64, F12-13 (Series 6)
• E38, E65-66, and F01-02-03-04 (Series 7)
• 3_E83, 5 (E53, 70), 6 (E71), and 1 (E84) (Series X)
• Z4: E85-86-89
• Mini: R55-56

This C310Plus is also compatible with all major OBD-II protocols.

Who’s It For?

BMW owners who just want simple car data and diagnostic information.

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6. iCarsoft i910 BMW Diagnostic Scan Tool

Now, unlike the 3210, the iCarsoft i910 covers all major systems.

For instance, read and clear trouble codes for your engine, transmission, ABS, and SRS systems among others. And the i910 also performs I/M readiness testing to determine if your BMW is ready for emissions.

Besides, it runs live data streams and uses freeze-frame technology to evaluate your car’s performance. Owners can also run O2 sensor testing, EVAP system testing, check the tire pressure, and perform key immobilizing.

Above all, BMW’s made between 1997-2018 should work with the i910. But the company warns buyers to call to ask about compatibility for any car made before 2005 or after 2014. Compatible protocols include CANBUS, ISO9141, KWP2000, and J1850.

Who’s It For?

Expert level car owners who want to perform more than standard maintenance on their BMW.

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7. AUTOPHIX 3210 OBD2 BMW Diagnostic Scanner

The best BMW code reader for Bluetooth users might be the AUTOPHIX 3210.

Now, “best” is a loose term considering the 3210 does not read any system other than your engine. But for BMW owners who only care about diagnosing the engine, the 3210 is fantastic.

Read and clear your BMW’s check engine code, for instance. Also, figure out what the issue is with the 3210’s vast DTC library. Follow an up-to-date data stream of your BMW’s parameters and read live data with adjustable settings so you can adjust graphs to parameters that work for your eyes.

In addition, determine if your BMW is ready for emissions testing with a smog check and I/M Readiness testing. Other great testing features include EVAP, O2 Sensor, and Mode 6 testing. And monitor the health of your battery in real-time as well.

Above all, the AUTOPHIX 3210 should be compatible with any BMW model built from 1996 onward and works with all major OBD2 protocols. Compliant protocols include CAN, J1850 PWM, J1850 VPW, ISO9141 and KWP 2000.

Who’s It For?

For BMW owners who want to run basic tests and read standard engine codes for their car

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8. Creator C310Plus Code Scanner

If you just want the basics, so check out another Maozua model: the Creator V8.0 C310.

However, this V8.0 does not have any bidirectional capabilities. All it does is read and clear codes for the basic systems in your car (Engine, ABS, DCS, SRS, and more). And you can perform engine oil resets on your BMW as well.

The lack of features, however, works to the device’s advantage in that it is compatible with almost all BMW models made since 1997 (though the 1997-2000 models need a 20 pin adaptor that you purchase separately).

In addition, a clear, 2.8 inch LCD screen presents code info for owners. And the device comes with free online software updates.

And compatible models include:

• 1 Series: E81-87-88
• 3 Series: Z3_E36, E46, E90-91-92-93
• 5 Series: E39, E60-61, GT(F07), F10-11
• 6 Series: E63/E64, F12-13
• 7 Series: E38, E65/E66, F01-02-03-04
• X Series: X3 (E83), X5 (E53), X5 (E70), X6 (E71), X1 (E84)
• Z Series: Z3 (E36), Z4 (E85/E86/E89)
• MINI: MINI_R50-52-53, MINI_R55-56

Also, the Creator V8.0 should work with all OBD2 and EOBD protocols regularly featured in BMWs.

Who’s It For?

For car owners who want to save money by performing simple diagnostic evaluations on their BMW cars.

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9. Carly Universal Adapter

BMW drivers will love the Carly Universal Adapter.

All car brands, including Mercedes (since 2004), Porsche (since 2001), Renault (since 2004), and Toyota (since 2005) are compatible with the Carly Adapter. But this OBD scan tool is also meant for BMW models built since 1996. (Note: A special interface will be needed to make this too compatible with models built after 1994).

Now, be warned, the Carly has two versions: the lite app and the pro app. The lite app reads codes on your phones, offers fault reports, and checks used-car history.

For the full benefits of the device, you need to purchase the pro app. This pro app resets error codes, provides diagnostic data and offers access to other advanced functionalities, for instance. Moreover, advanced features include full diagnostic analysis, live data monitoring, and coding.

Read more: Best OBD2 App: Top 9 Picks For iPhone and Android Review 2021

However, you can manually control the exhaust flap to determine how your car will perform during emissions. And you can also perform transmission resets and control the electronic parking brake.

Because the Carly is meant for any car, including European cars, ISO9141-2 is its primary protocol.

Primarily for BMW owners who do advanced research to determine all the parts they need to get full use of the product.

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Factors to Consider Before Buying a BMW Scan Tool

So you can consider the following factors when purchasing a scanner for your BMW:

What do I need to do?

Many scanners do just the basics of reading and clearing engine codes. And if that’s all you need, then you can save a lot of money purchasing a cheaper model. But what if you need ABS codes? Transmission codes? Live data? Emissions testing? Do you want something that’s bidirectional, for instance?

So know before you purchase exactly what functions you want your BMW scanner to perform so you can match up the right model with those needs.

What models does it cover?

Just because it is a BMW scanner doesn’t mean it works for all BMWs. So some models, for whatever reasons, are not compatible with some scanners. Then, feel free to contact the manufacturer of the scan tool to check for compatibility.

And while a scanner might be compatible with your model, all functions might not be. So don’t just check to see if your model is compatible with the scanner. Thus, check to see what functions are compatible with that scan tool.

How many accessories do I need to purchase?

Many scanners require updates that cost money. Some have additional cables that extend it to more models of cars, while some require purchasing apps for advanced features. So be sure you find out the complete cost of getting the scanner to do everything you need it to do by taking the whole cost of the BMW scan tool into account.

The Bottom Line

So, buyers on a budget will appreciate the Carista. While it doesn’t have many advanced features, the Carista does what most car owners want their scanners to do: read and clear the check engine light.

On the contrary, check out the Foxwell NT510 for the most functions for BMW cars, since it is perfect for the DIYer and professional who needs advanced functions while working on their BMW cars.

You can also check out the MAOZUA V 7.7. While it doesn’t cover as many systems as the NT510 does, the V7.7 is easy to use, offers free updates, and features great customer service.

In short, whichever model you choose, make sure you do research to ensure your BMW model is covered by the scan tool. Also, make sure the BMW scanner does everything you personally need it to do.

Read more: 10 Best Autel Scanners Review and Comparison for 2021