George, does this actually have all of the BMW codes? Across all models and ECU's? I read the description and it wasn't clear. I had the pleasure of teaching my non-car wife Carly, since she's alone with the 328 in CT. Very hard to do, though she got it. [Now THAT'S what I call a good marriage!] :thumbup: I use ISTA+ and INPA, but Carly's the one in her car.
If there a stone-simple reader than can give a BMW code readout, I'd love for her to have it. Just have her plug it in and get the codes so I can advise her what to do if there's a problem.
The short answer to your question as I understand it is NO. No P-code (standardized OBD II code) reader that I know of converts P-codes to BMW Fault Codes (although INPA shows BOTH). NOR will the Autel AL319 (low-priced generic code reader with Freeze Frame, Parameter, and Readiness Monitor reading capability) connect to any other module in the vehicle other than the DME (AFAIK).
However, my understanding is that when it comes to engine/DME fault codes, a P-code has a BMW FC equivalent and vice-versa. For example, P0301 = 29CD. If you had that code saved in your DME memory, the Autel would indicate you had a fault code stored, and when you selected "Read Codes," it would show P0301 on the screen, and give a short definition of that number, such as "misfire, cylinder #1." It does that on a BMW, a Toyota, Honda, Maserati, Buick, Chevy P/U with gunrack, etc.
It will NOT, as INPA will, show BOTH 29CD AND P0301, but WHY do you need that?
Bentley provides BOTH codes in P-code numerical order, for example it shows for P0301:
"P0301 | 29CD | Cylinder 1 Misfire Detected"
There are even "Manufacturer Specific" P-codes that a generic P-code reader such as the AL319 can read, although it may NOT be able to provide a proper definition of that code on its screen, JUST the Code#.
I'm relatively new to Code reading, BMW or Standardized OBD II P-codes (having owned/maintained pre-OBD II Jaguars until last year). However my understanding and experience so far is that ALL manufacturers are supposed to provide a system that meets SAE standards for OBD II code reading, at least those codes related to proper engine operation and emissions compliance, and AFAIK, ANY Fault/Error that lights the SES light sets a code in the DME, which either the Autel or INPA can read, and will provide definition for.
There MAY be codes such as "Oil Wear Fault" in the Transmission or Transfer case modules that do NOT light the SES light, but are saved in memory. You need INPA or something like it to even KNOW you have codes, or read codes, in modules OTHER than the DME that have NOT set the SES light or caused other Instrument Cluster warning light. That's why I use INPA every 2-3 months to quickly tell me (using "Functional Jobs") if there are any Errors saved in ANY module.
So, in that context, the Autel AL319 is perfect for her use (or that of any "non-tech), particularly when you are a phone call away and can suggest next steps, or even fly up with your laptop & INPA if needed in a more-difficult diagnostic situation. Carly may be able to somewhat bridge the gap between the Autel & INPA, but as far as simply reading basic DTC's that cause the SES warning light to come on, I'd like to know from anyone who has Carly just what "code info" it can provide (at least to a "Non-tech") that the AL319 CANNOT.
My impression is that for those who are NOT "techs," the simplicity of use of something like the AL319 is preferable to something that tries to wow you with its "BMW capability" and as a result is more complicated to use. Also, for use on any BMW built since 1996, AND vehicles other than a BMW, this code reader provides ALL the basic ability to read codes, read Parameters, read Freeze Frame Data, Clear codes, and view Readiness Monitors.
I don't know anything about Carly, but what I HAVE heard about it on this forum makes me wonder if its salesmen create false impressions as to the basic capabilities of different scan tools and software. From what I know so far, it seems like the primary considerations are: (1) what modules can the tool connect to? and (2) what functions can the tool run in each module? AFAIK, the AL319 will ONLY connect to the DME, and it CANNOT read more than a few basic Parameters in that module. It CANNOT perform ANY Activations. It WILL (a) Read ALL P-codes (and probably U-codes or other codes save in DME); (b) Clear codes; (c) Read Freeze Frame data; (d) Read basic Parameters; (e) View Readiness Monitors. It WON'T Register a new battery. :rofl:
I attach the pdf Manual for the AL319
Anyone who has any questions, let me know,
George