GT1 , OPS , OPPS OR ICOM

[Juvvajuvva]

Hi,
Can anyone tell me if I can use an OPS and or OPPS on our cars / post 97 or must I use the earlier GT1 diagnostic head?

Or should I just go for the ICOM? Obviously there is a big jump in price for the ICOM and I don’t really have the budget at the mo despite the obvious improvements it offers.

I can get an OPS I just need to know if it will work on 97-2003 e36/37 Z3’s.

Thanks in advance.
Cheers
John

 

[NZ00Z3]

Hi

Received this advice a while back.

To talk to older BMW's, I was recommend to buy an ICOM. Haven't had the need yet, so can't comment on the best option. Below is the information I received from a very experienced BMW diagnostic master.

Depending if you find it worth it or not.. you can purchase an ICOM, which is the dealer's diagnostic tool, which can reach all BMWs from the 80's till 2018, when using all the adapters.

2 options:
1. Genuine BMW ICOM "Next" version (part number 81312360883), which is roughly $600 USD without the 20-pin adapter needed. This tool is genuine and you will not have any problems with it.
2. Alternative good option is to get a clone ICOM. The Chinese have clone ICOMs of ALL SORTS of quality levels, so you really need to choose carefully. Most do not include the wifi card built in.



Benefits to using an ICOM: you can connect directly to your already setup INPA through wifi or LAN (ethernet) from computer to ICOM for diagnostics. I do this on my Surface Pro tablet (with a genuine older ICOM) when I don't use the USB cable.


Good Chinese clone ICOMs from a trusted seller; I have bought multiple things from this seller (for other cars, not BMW):

https://www.xcar360.com/best-quality...interface.html Includes Wifi and all adapters $325. This one is quite good.

https://www.xcar360.com/bmw-icom-a2-...k-version.html $270 no wifi, but you can add it to it, the heatsink is their own invention, nice but not necessary.


You do not need any of their laptop offerings or their software (it's pirated anyways).

Important facts if you will be searching for clone ICOMs yourself:
- Most chinese ICOMs will not have wifi. Be VERY careful.
- ICOM A1 is the old original design. ICOM A2 is the slightly updated design, but internally it's 100% identical to A1.
- ICOM A3 is a chinese invention. WARNING: A3 never existed and it's inferior. Do NOT buy A3
- Clone ICOM 'Next' is just a rebodied A2 by the Chinese. It's nothing like the latest generation genuine BMW ICOM Next. No need to pay extra for a clone Next.

Hope that helps

Murray

 

[Juvvajuvva]

Hi Murray,
Awesome reply!
What a rock star!!!
I can’t thank you enough.
Exactly the info I was looking for.
My absolute gratitude!
Kindest regards
John.
What a great reflection on a forum to have such great people with such a wealth of knowledge that are willing to help and share.
Just superb.