Launch X431 PAD V/Pad VII, Autel MaxiCOM MK908P/Maxisys Elite and Autel MaxiSys Ultra can perform ECU coding and programming for almost all BMW vehicles.
The Coding function is used to re-flash the vehicle control modules, it allows you to update the computer software on the vehicle to the latest version, as well as to reprogram adaptive data for certain components after making repairs or replacements, providing ways for the issues of Drivability, Fuel Efficiency, Power Loss, Fault Codes, Durability of Mechanical Parts.
The diagnostic tool can reflash the vehicle control modules, to update the in-car computer software and reprogram adaptive data for certain components, fixing issues of drivability, fuel efficiency, power loss, fault codes and durability of mechanical parts.
- Coding: reprograms adaptive data for vehicle control modules after repairs or replacements of vehicle parts;
- Reprogramming: downloads newest software version from the online server database and reprograms it to the ECU.
Autel MaxiCOM MK908P Pros:
Online, cloud-based ECU coding and programming in the U.S through its J2534 interface.
The diagnostic tool comes with a J2534 ECU programming tool (also used as a VCI box) that is a SAE J2534-1 & -2 compliant pass-thru reprogramming interface device. Using the updated OEM software, it is capable of helping BMW and Mercedes Benz users replace the existing software/firmware in the Electronic Control Units (ECU), program new ECUs and fix software-controlled drivability issues and emission issues. It supports BT and USB communications and can transmit vehicle data to the MaxiCOM display tablet with or without a physical connection.
Autel MaixSys Ultra and Launch X431 PAD V Pros:
√J2534 protocol
√Online programming/coding,
√Support D-PDU and RP1210 protocols to extend compatibility with more passenger and commercial vehicles globally. The VCMI modules in both devices also support other protocols like CAN FD and DOIP.
Autel MaxiSys Ultra Pros:
Checks all the boxes any mechanic could want from a non-OEM coding and programming tool with its powerful 5-in-1 VCMI paired with extensive protocol support.
BMW programming tool: Autel MaxiSys Ultra Vs. Autel MaxiCOM MK908P Vs. Launch X431 PAD V
| Autel MaxiCOM MK908P or Maxisys Elite | Autel MaxiSys Ultra | Launch X431 PAD V | ||
| Image |  |
 |
 |
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| Coding /Programming | 9/10 | 10/10 | 10/10 | |
| System diagnostic | 10/10 | 10/10 | 10/10 | |
| Advanced service | 10/10 | 10/10 | 10/10 | |
| Bi-directional | 10/10 | 10/10 | 10/10 | |
| D-PDU/ J2534/ RP1210 | J2534 | D-PDU/ J2534/ RP1210 | D-PDU/ J2534/ | |
| VCMI | n/a | Yes | Yes | |
| Price | $2,199 | $4,500-$5,000 | $3499 | |
Autel MaxiSys Ultra wins in advanced system diagnosis
Access your ECU to deliver full, intelligent diagnostics on every system in your BMW. They can access the engine body system, navigation system, airbag system, audio system, suspension system, or other systems to do what they do best; perform in-depth diagnoses on your car. The ability to access all modules in all systems is pretty much expected at the price points of these scanners.
Take Autel MaxiSys Ultra for example, it displays the current module status and number of DTC per module, as well as shows the communication structure between the system modules. It also has better specs for faster and smoother diagnostics.
MaxiSys MK908P works in combination with the diagnostic tools to your greatest advantage:
- The MaxiScope MP408, a PC based automotive oscilloscope, giving you an insight to the inner workings of a vehicle’s electronic circuits;
- The MaxiVideo MV105/108, digital inspection cameras, allowing you to examine difficult-to-reach areas normally hidden from sight.
Launch X431 PAD V wins in Advanced service function
1). X431 PAD V has the abilities of oil lamp reset, injector reset, EPB reset, steering angle calibration, battery maintenance, ABS bleeding, TPMS reset, DPF regeneration, gear learning, key coding, AFS, gearbox, suspension, sunroof reset, tire change reset, multimedia video reset, cluster reset, immobilizer service, air suspension matching, seat matching, and headlight fitting.
2). Autel MaxiCOM MK908P special functions
Oil Reset Service, EPB Service, SAS Service, DPF Service, TPMS Service, IMMO Service etc
3). Autel MaxiSys Ultra special functions
ABS bleeding, TPMS, SRS reset, Oil reset, EPB, BMS, IMMO service, DPF regeneration, injector coding, SAS calibration, throttle adaption, sunroof initialization, seats calibration, gear learning, A/F setting, WIN DR roof, headlight matching, odometer, CHG tire size, trans adaption, neutral gear position learning, torque sensor adjustment, clutch pedal position learning, cylinder power balance, signal check, yaw rate sensor (YRS) learning, auto-door lock, component matching, stop/start reset and many more.
Launch X431 PAD V wins in Bidirectional controls
Launch X431 PAD V offers both local diagnostics and remote diagnostics without being physically around the vehicle. So, PAD V is recommended although all of three devices has the ability of bidirectional controls: transmit control commands to the ECU to test the actuators in specific systems or components so you can locate the problem easily. This will save you from spending time and effort to take the vehicle apart. With the bidirectional controls, you can go inside your front wiper, rear wiper, parking, license plate lamps, tail lamps, A/C compressor, door switch, and many more with the three devices.
Besides, LAUNCH X431 PAD V can perform online programming for also BMW, Mercedes, VW, Audi, Seat, Skoda, Porsche, Nissan, Infiniti, Subaru, it can supports SCN coding until the 2020 model! (PS: Online Programming function has not been authorized in the USA, Canada, and Spain.)
Autel MK908P and Launch X431 PAD 5 win in BMW vehicle coverage
Besides, new BMW, MINI, and Rolls Royce vehicles made in the 90s.
Autel MaxiCOM MK908P and Launch X431 PAD V/PAD VII are packed with an adapter for OBD1 BMW vehicles that you can use if you have an older BMW.
| BMW vehicle | Autel MaxiCOM MK908P | Autel MaxiSys Ultra | Launch X431 PAD V |
| 1 Series | E81, E82, E87, E88, F20, F21 | F40, F20, F21, F52, E81, E82, E87, E88 | All EU Models |
| 2 Series | F22, F23, F45, F46, F87 | F22, F23, F44, F45, F46, F87 | All EU Models |
| 3 Series | E30, E34, E36, E46, E90, E91, E92, E93, F30, F34, F80 | E90, E91, E92, E93, F30, F31, F34, F35, F80, G20, G21, G28 | All EU Models |
| 4 Series | F32, F33, F36, F82, F83 | F32, F33, F36, F82, F83, G22 | All EU Models |
| 5 Series | E60, E61, F07, F10, F11, F18, F90 | E60, E61, F07, F10, F11, F18, F90, G30, G31, G38 | All EU Models |
