Protool Car Scanner: The Ultimate BMW Coding and Diagnostics App – A Comprehensive Review

As a BMW enthusiast and owner, maintaining peak performance and customizing features are always top of mind. For years, the go-to solution for advanced diagnostics and coding has been complex software like ESYS, often requiring a dedicated laptop and technical expertise. However, the game has changed with the introduction of Protool car scanner, a revolutionary mobile application that puts professional-grade BMW diagnostics and coding power right in the palm of your hand.

In this in-depth review, we’ll explore why Protool car scanner is rapidly becoming the must-have tool for BMW owners of F, G, E, and I series vehicles. We’ll delve into its features, compare it to traditional methods like ESYS, and demonstrate why it stands out as the best BMW coding and diagnostics app available today.

Protool is offered in two license options: a Diagnostics License ($89.99) and a Coding License ($79.99), allowing you to choose the functionality you need. For the full suite of capabilities, the Master License ($149.99) provides both licenses at a discounted price, saving you $19.99. To discover more and explore purchase options, visit the official Bimmer Geeks website: https://www.bimmergeeks.net/.

What makes Protool car scanner truly exceptional is its ability to replicate the functionality of ESYS in a mobile format. Yes, you read that right – this app empowers you to perform virtually any coding task that ESYS can handle, including both FDL and VO coding. The only feature currently exclusive to ESYS is ECU flashing, which, for the vast majority of BMW owners, is not a frequently used function.

This mobile ESYS capability translates to unparalleled convenience and control. Imagine coding features like windows up/down with your key fob, disabling annoying legal disclaimers, or even making advanced adjustments to your car’s driving dynamics, such as steering feel (EPS module), differential behavior (GHAS), and traction control (DSC module – unlocking EURO MDM mode). If you’ve previously used tools like the Thor flasher to customize these settings, Protool car scanner offers a seamless and even more comprehensive upgrade path.

Guide to Unleashing Your BMW’s Potential with Protool Car Scanner:

To illustrate the power of Protool car scanner, here are direct links to guides demonstrating its use for advanced coding:

• EPS Module (Steering Feel): https://f87.bimmerpost.com/forums/sh…4#post29968214
• DSC Module (Traction Control/MDM): https://f87.bimmerpost.com/forums/sh…8#post29968208
• GHAS Module (Differential): https://f87.bimmerpost.com/forums/sh…7#post29968227

In the realm of mobile BMW coding applications, Protool car scanner stands unchallenged in its capabilities. Its extensive coding features alone make it the premier choice and the most worthwhile investment for your money. For most BMW owners, Protool car scanner effectively eliminates the need for complex and cumbersome software like ESYS.

Beyond coding, Protool car scanner excels in diagnostics. It goes beyond generic OBD2 scanners, allowing you to read genuine BMW-specific fault codes for accurate and in-depth troubleshooting. Furthermore, it provides essential functions like battery coding and registration. Whether you’re replacing your battery with a stock capacity unit or upgrading to a different size, even lightweight lithium-ion options, Protool car scanner ensures proper system integration.

The combination of advanced coding and comprehensive diagnostics makes Protool car scanner an indispensable tool for any BMW owner looking to maintain, customize, and truly understand their vehicle.

Now, let’s dive into a more detailed exploration of this game-changing application.

Navigating the Disclaimer Landscape:

Before we delve deeper, it’s crucial to acknowledge the necessary disclaimers associated with automotive modifications and software use.

Damage/Injury Disclaimer: Any modifications, coding adjustments, or diagnostic procedures you undertake based on information provided in this review are done at your own risk. We are not liable for personal injury, harm to others, vehicle damage, or property damage resulting from the use of this information. Automotive work should be performed with caution and a thorough understanding of potential risks.

Monetary Disclaimer: This review is an independent assessment of Protool car scanner. No commission, profit, or monetary gain is received from the sale of Protool software by Bimmer Geeks.

Sponsorship Disclaimer: The product reviews conducted are based on independent selection and evaluation of what are believed to be the best products available for personal use. Sponsorships are sought after a product is chosen based on its merits. This ensures that reviews are based on genuine belief in the product’s quality and value. The sponsorship is for the review process itself and does not influence the objective evaluation of the product. There is no obligation to review sponsored products favorably.

Time of Writing Disclaimer: The information presented in this review is accurate as of the writing date and may not reflect future updates, changes, or advancements in the software or related technologies.

Bias and Comparison Disclaimer: While striving for objectivity, comparisons to other products are inherently based on subjective evaluation criteria. Efforts are made to be unbiased and present a balanced perspective.

Mistakes and Inaccuracies Disclaimer: While meticulous effort is made to ensure accuracy, errors and omissions can occur. If any inaccuracies are identified, please bring them to our attention for correction and sincere apologies for any misinformation.

Subjective Disclaimer: Product evaluations and “best product” determinations are ultimately based on opinion, derived from a comprehensive assessment of factors. Individual preferences may vary, and opinions presented should be considered as such. Readers are encouraged to form their own informed opinions.

Information Disclaimer: The information presented is based on years of accumulated knowledge, research, and experience in the automotive field. While efforts are made to cite sources where possible, some information may be derived from general industry knowledge and may not be explicitly cited. Common knowledge and widely available information may not be specifically referenced.

Image Credits:

The images used in this review are credited to their respective owners as indicated below each image. These images are used for illustrative purposes within this review. If any image owner wishes to have their image removed, please contact us, and we will promptly comply. Thank you to the image owners for contributing to the visual clarity of this review.

Review Stance and Transparency:

Bimmer Geeks has kindly sponsored this review, and their support is gratefully acknowledged. Despite this sponsorship, the review remains unbiased and objective. The initiative for this review originated from a genuine belief in the Protool car scanner as the leading coding tool at the time of writing. Personal experience using Protool for coding modifications on a BMW M2 further reinforces this positive assessment.

Decoding “Coding” in the BMW Context:

For those new to the terminology, “coding” in the BMW world refers to modifying software parameters within the car’s Electronic Control Units (ECUs) to enable or disable pre-existing features programmed by the manufacturer. This is distinct from software development; it’s more akin to activating or deactivating a “light switch” that’s already built into the system. BMW designs its vehicles with a wide array of features embedded in the software, which can be customized based on vehicle options and market specifications. Coding allows owners to tap into this inherent flexibility.

When performed correctly, coding is generally safe because it manipulates factory-programmed functionalities. However, caution is always advised. Incorrect procedures or unforeseen issues (like battery drain during coding) can potentially lead to complications. It’s crucial to thoroughly understand the coding process and the specific functions being modified before making changes.

BMW coding primarily falls into two categories: FDL Coding and VO Coding.

VO Coding (Vehicle Order Coding): VO coding, or Vehicle Order coding, revolves around pre-defined BMW option codes. Each BMW has a Vehicle Order, a digital “genetic identity” that dictates the features enabled based on the original factory specifications and option selections. VO coding involves modifying this Vehicle Order to enable or disable feature sets tied to specific option codes. This is particularly useful for retrofitting components. For example, adding factory options after purchase often involves VO coding to activate the corresponding software functionalities.

Consider the popular option code 6NS, Enhanced USB and Bluetooth. Vehicles with 6NS have features like dual phone pairing, dual microphones, additional USB ports, and sometimes enhanced iDrive media display. Cars without this option typically have the 6NH VO code, which deactivates these features in the relevant ECUs. If you retrofit the hardware for 6NS, VO coding allows you to replace 6NH with 6NS in the Vehicle Order and then “code” the car. This process automatically configures all affected ECUs to support the newly added features, streamlining the retrofit process significantly compared to manually FDL coding each individual ECU.

FDL Coding (Function Data Line Coding): FDL coding, or Function Data Line coding, offers granular control over individual ECU parameters. It bypasses the pre-set limitations of VO coding and allows direct modification of specific settings within each ECU. This unlocks a vast range of customization possibilities beyond factory options.

For instance, even without retrofitting the hardware for 6NS, FDL coding can enable many of its software features. You could VO code 6NS and then use FDL coding to adjust parameters like the number of USB ports and microphones back to the original hardware configuration. This can activate features like multiple phone connections and album art display without the full hardware retrofit. FDL coding also enables customization of features never intended as VO options, such as disabling iDrive disclaimers or seatbelt chimes. These hidden settings are accessible through FDL coding, allowing for a deeper level of personalization.

Why does BMW employ coding? The underlying reason is cost-efficiency. Manufacturing cars with a high degree of component commonality and then differentiating features through software coding is significantly more economical than producing a vast array of distinct hardware variations. For example, different BMW models, even within the same series, might share the same power steering rack hardware, but the software coding within the EPS (Electronic Power Steering) module dictates the steering feel. This software-driven differentiation allows BMW to offer varying driving dynamics across models without drastically altering the underlying hardware. This also benefits enthusiasts, as it opens up possibilities to code features from higher-performance models into their vehicles, such as coding an M2 with M2CS or M4 GTS steering feel, provided the hardware is compatible and the software supports it.

Now that we understand the fundamentals of BMW coding, let’s explore the tools available to perform these modifications.

Coding Safely: Essential Precautions:

Before embarking on any coding endeavor, prioritizing safety is paramount. Here are essential tips for safe BMW coding:

1. Create Backups: Always perform a complete vehicle backup before making any coding changes. This provides a safety net, allowing you to revert your car back to its original factory settings should any issues arise.
2. Know What You’re Doing: Thorough research is non-negotiable. Understand the specific coding modifications you intend to make, their effects, the ECUs involved, and the correct procedures. Ensure the desired coding is compatible with your car model and software version.
3. Maintain Battery Voltage: Use a reliable battery charger to maintain stable voltage throughout the coding process. Voltage drops during coding can lead to ECU corruption or “bricking,” potentially rendering the car inoperable. In some cases, running the engine during coding is recommended (but never drive while coding).
4. Use Quality Adapters and Cables: Invest in high-quality cables and wireless adapters. Cheap, unreliable connections can be slow and prone to failure mid-coding, which can be detrimental. Beware of poorly constructed OBD2 cables with exposed wiring, which pose a short-circuit risk.

ESYS: The Traditional Coding Powerhouse:

Credit: mev2630 https://f30.bimmerpost.com/forums/sh…76&postcount=1
Image showing the interface of the ESYS coding software, highlighting its complex menu system.

ESYS (short for E-System) is BMW’s proprietary software for diagnostics, ECU flashing, and both FDL and VO coding. It’s a powerful tool favored by professionals and advanced enthusiasts. To use ESYS effectively, you’ll need:

• Windows Laptop: A laptop with ample RAM (at least 8GB, ideally more) is recommended, especially for newer BMWs with numerous ECUs. Tablets with limited RAM may not suffice.
• PSdZData Files: Up-to-date ECU data files (PSdZData) are essential for ESYS to recognize and communicate with your vehicle’s modules.
• ENET Cable: An ENET (Ethernet to OBD2) cable is required for a reliable connection between your laptop and the car’s OBD2 port.
• ESYS Launcher: For FDL coding, a launcher like Launcher Pro or Bimmer Utility is necessary to streamline the process and manage CAFD (Coded Application File Description) files.

With these components, ESYS provides comprehensive BMW coding and flashing capabilities. However, it also has drawbacks:

• Cost: Acquiring all necessary elements, including a suitable laptop and launcher license, can be expensive.
• Complexity: ESYS has a steep learning curve. Its interface and coding procedures can be intimidating for beginners. The menu system is dense and not particularly user-friendly.
• Time-Consuming: Coding with ESYS can be slower compared to mobile apps, partly due to the more intricate menu navigation and procedures.

Protool Car Scanner: Mobile Coding Revolution:

Enter Protool car scanner, a mobile application designed to bring BMW coding and diagnostics to Android devices (Android 4.1 and higher at the time of this review). While iOS support isn’t currently available, it remains a highly anticipated feature.

Protool Car Scanner: Key Highlights:

1. Flexible Licensing: Protool offers separate Diagnostics and Coding licenses, allowing users to purchase only the functions they need initially and upgrade later. The Master License provides both at a cost-saving bundle.
2. Free Lifetime Updates: App updates, including support for newer BMW models, are currently free for the lifetime of the app, ensuring ongoing value and compatibility – a significant advantage over ESYS launchers with subscription models.
3. No VIN Locking: The license isn’t tied to a specific vehicle, allowing you to use it on multiple BMWs. It’s linked to your Google account for easy portability across devices.
4. Free Feature Exploration: You can download the app and connect to your car for free to explore available coding and diagnostic features before purchasing a license. This “try before you buy” approach is invaluable for assessing compatibility and feature availability for your specific BMW model.
5. Versatile Adapter Compatibility: Protool supports a wide range of adapters, minimizing the need for additional hardware purchases. However, using high-quality adapters and cables is crucial for reliable coding. Bimmer Geeks offers quality cables and adapters, some with optional lifetime warranties, reflecting their confidence in product quality. Adapters compatible with tuning software (like the MHD black ENET WiFi adapter, which can function as both a WiFi and ENET interface) offer added versatility.

Protool Car Scanner supports a wide array of connection methods:

1. USB K+DCAN Cables (OTG): For older E-series BMWs, Protool supports USB K+DCAN cables connected via OTG (USB On-The-Go) adapters.

   Credit: Bimmer Geeks (click on this link if you want to buy a quality K+ DCAN cable directly from bimmer geeks) https://www.bimmergeeks.net/product-…eeks-pro-cable
   Image of a BimmerGeeks branded K+DCAN cable, suitable for connecting to older BMW E-series vehicles.

2. BimmerGeeks Bluetooth Adapter: Bimmer Geeks offers their own Bluetooth adapter specifically designed for Protool.

   Credit: Bimmer Geeks (click on this link if you want to buy their bluetooth adapter) https://www.bimmergeeks.net/product-…etooth-adapter
   Image of the BimmerGeeks Bluetooth OBD2 adapter, designed for wireless connectivity with Protool.

3. Thor WiFi Adapter: The Thor WiFi adapter is also compatible with Protool.

   Credit: Bimmer Geeks (click on this link if you want to buy the thor adapter) https://www.bimmergeeks.net/product-…p-wifi-adapter
   Image of the Thor WiFi OBD2 adapter, another option for wireless connection to Protool.

4. Orange MHD WiFi Adapter (Discontinued): While discontinued, the older orange MHD WiFi adapter is supported.

   Credit: Mashimarho (this orange adapter is discontinued now) https://mashimarho.com/products/mhd-…32241903861859
   Image of the orange MHD WiFi adapter, an older, now discontinued, but still compatible wireless option.

5. ENET Cables (with OTG Ethernet Adapter): ENET cables, when paired with an OTG Ethernet adapter, provide a wired connection option for Protool.

   Credit:https://www.amazon.ca/OHP-Ethernet-D…/dp/B07V3C47YD (warning: I just used this image as an example, I have no experience with this enet cable so I do not know if it is any good, I do know it has good reviews but that is it, so tread with caution)
   Image depicting an ENET cable connected to an OTG Ethernet adapter, enabling wired ENET connectivity for Protool via an Android device.

6. MHD Black ENET WiFi Adapter: The black MHD ENET WiFi adapter is fully supported, offering both WiFi and ENET connectivity.

   Credit: Mashimarho (click on this link if you want to buy an MHD black enet wifi adapter) https://mashimarho.com/products/mhd-…32241903894627
   Image of the MHD black ENET WiFi adapter, a versatile option offering both wired and wireless connectivity.

7. Newer MHD WiFi Adapter (Potential Support – Unconfirmed): Support for MHD’s newest WiFi adapter is anticipated but not yet officially confirmed.

   Credit: Mashimarho (click on this link if you want to buy an MHD black enet wifi adapter) https://mashimarho.com/products/mhd-…32241903894627
   Image of a newer MHD WiFi adapter, indicating potential future compatibility with Protool, but currently unconfirmed.

8. BM3 New WiFi Adapter: The BootMod3 (BM3) new WiFi adapter is also compatible with Protool.

   Credit: Protuning freaks (creator of BootMod3, click on the link if you want to buy their wifi adapter) https://www.protuningfreaks.com/prod…-flash-adapter
   Image of the BootMod3 (BM3) WiFi adapter, confirming its compatibility with the Protool car scanner.

9. In-App User Guide: Protool includes a comprehensive user guide accessible within the app menu (hamburger icon, “User Guide”). This PDF manual provides detailed instructions and information about app features. For further assistance, direct inquiries to Bimmer Geeks or community forums are also valuable resources.

Protool Car Scanner: Feature-Rich Capabilities:

Protool car scanner goes far beyond basic coding apps, offering a feature set that rivals and, in many ways, surpasses traditional tools like ESYS.

Like other coding apps, Protool handles common customizations like:

• Windows up/down with key fob
• Mirror folding/unfolding upon lock/unlock
• Disabling legal disclaimers and warning chimes

However, Protool’s true power lies in its ability to perform advanced coding tasks previously exclusive to ESYS. This includes:

• DSC Module Coding: Unlock features like M4 GTS MDM mode for enhanced driving dynamics.
• EPS Module Coding: Customize steering feel, including options like F87 CS steering for a sharper response.
• GHAS Module Coding: Adjust differential behavior, with options like F87 CS differential coding for improved handling.

For users who previously relied on tools like Thor flasher for these advanced customizations, Protool car scanner offers a welcome return of these capabilities and even expands upon them. VO/FA coding is also supported, simplifying retrofits and large-scale feature coding.

Backup and Profile Management: Protool features robust backup and profile management. You can create full backups of your car’s coding parameters, generating profiles that capture specific coding states. This allows you to create multiple profiles (e.g., “stock,” “customized,” “track settings”) and easily switch between them by “restoring” a saved profile. This is invaluable for users who frequently change coding settings or want to quickly revert to a previous configuration.

Advanced Diagnostics and Service Functions: Protool’s diagnostic capabilities extend far beyond simple code reading and resetting. It offers:

• Battery Coding and Registration: Code battery replacements, even for different capacities or battery types (e.g., lithium-ion).
• Injector Coding: Code new fuel injectors for proper engine management.
• Adaptation Resets and Recalibrations: Reset adaptations and trigger recalibrations for various modules, including the GHAS (differential), essential after making coding changes to these systems.
• Hardware Activation and Control: Similar to ISTA (BMW’s dealer-level diagnostic software), Protool can command specific hardware components to activate for diagnostic purposes. This includes features like putting G8X rear brakes into service mode for pad replacement, as demonstrated in this Kies Motorsports video (9-minute mark): [Insert Kies Motorsports Video Link Here].

Data Logging: Protool’s data logging capabilities are comparable to dedicated tuning apps, allowing you to monitor a wide range of engine and vehicle parameters. This can serve as a valuable tool for performance monitoring and diagnostics, even before considering ECU tuning.

Remote Backups: Protool offers remote backup functionality, allowing you to store profiles, data logs, and diagnostic codes securely online through the Bimmer Geeks website. This provides convenient access to your data from any computer and ensures data safety even if your mobile device is lost or damaged.

Protool Car Scanner Interface:

Credit: F87source, here is an image of the main menu screen. From here you can see all the main categories of ecus available.
Screenshot of Protool’s main menu, showcasing the organized layout of ECU categories.

Credit: F87source, again here is the next section of the main menu
Continuation of the Protool main menu screenshot, displaying further ECU categories.

Credit: F87source, continuing with the menu
Further continuation of the Protool main menu, showing the remaining ECU categories and options.

Credit: F87source, here is a submenu that would come up if you were to click on an ecu. From there you have the option to read errors, clear errors, see functions available within the ecu (recalibrations etc), see live data – which is super nice if you want to diagnose an issue and want to see if a part is working for eg. water pump duty cycle, access the control module, and finally do some coding.
Screenshot of a Protool ECU submenu, illustrating options for error reading/clearing, function access, live data monitoring, control module access, and coding.

For detailed coding walkthroughs, refer to the linked guides in the overview and advanced coding sections, demonstrating coding procedures for GHAS, EPS, and DSC modules.

Protool Car Scanner vs. ESYS: A Comparative Analysis:

Having used both ESYS and Protool car scanner, here’s a direct comparison highlighting key differences:

1. Ease of Use: Protool is significantly more user-friendly. Its intuitive mobile app interface is straightforward and easy to navigate. Menus are logically categorized, and common coding options are readily accessible. Protool is designed to prevent accidental critical errors.

   ESYS, even with years of experience, remains complex and less forgiving. Its menu system can be overwhelming, especially for new users. The sheer number of options on a single screen can be daunting. ESYS also has “trap buttons” like “Code Default,” which, if misused, can brick ECUs. This makes ESYS riskier for inexperienced users compared to Protool’s safer design.

2. Portability and Device Flexibility: Protool, being a mobile app linked to your Google account, offers exceptional portability. You can use it across multiple Android devices simultaneously.

   ESYS, relying on launchers tied to specific computers (though some launchers now offer account-based licensing), is less flexible. Moving licenses between machines can be restricted. Launcher licenses may also have subscription fees.

3. Cost-Effectiveness: Protool is significantly more affordable than ESYS when considering the total cost of ownership.

   Approximate Cost Breakdown:

   • Protool: ~$80 (Android Tablet) + ~$30 (ENET Cable + OTG Adapter) + $80 (Coding License) = ~$190
   • ESYS: ~$50-100 (Launcher License) + ~$25 (ENET Cable) + ~$300+ (Windows Laptop) = ~$375-425+

   Protool can be nearly half the cost of setting up ESYS. The Android tablet purchased for Protool can also serve as an in-car gauge display or for other purposes, while a budget laptop for ESYS might primarily sit idle between coding sessions.

4. Portability and Convenience: Protool’s mobile nature makes it ultra-portable and convenient for quick coding adjustments on the go, such as at a track event. Changes can be made in minutes.

   ESYS, requiring a laptop, is less convenient for quick adjustments. Setup and coding can take 10-15 minutes, including laptop setup, connection, and navigating ESYS menus.

Conclusion: Protool Car Scanner – The Smart Choice for Most BMW Owners:

For the majority of BMW owners, from beginners to advanced DIYers, Protool car scanner emerges as the superior choice. ESYS is largely unnecessary for most coding and diagnostic needs. Protool offers a more user-friendly, cost-effective, and portable solution without sacrificing core functionality.

ESYS remains relevant primarily for expert or professional users who require ECU flashing capabilities and engage in extensive remote coding.

Advanced Coding Examples with Protool Car Scanner:

To showcase the advanced coding potential of Protool car scanner, here are examples applied to a 2017 BMW M2 (ISTEP level F020-19-07-539). Note that available coding options may vary based on your vehicle and software version.

Refer to these guides for step-by-step instructions on coding specific modules using Protool:

• EPS Module (Steering Feel): https://f87.bimmerpost.com/forums/sh…4#post29968214
• DSC Module (Traction Control/MDM): https://f87.bimmerpost.com/forums/sh…8#post29968208
• GHAS Module (Differential): https://f87.bimmerpost.com/forums/sh…7#post29968227

Protool car scanner truly represents a leap forward in BMW diagnostics and coding, bringing professional-level capabilities to a user-friendly mobile platform. It empowers BMW owners to take control of their vehicle’s customization and maintenance in an unprecedented way.