The problem goes like this:
BMW X6 2011, cas3++ istap, failed on downgrade via OBD with vvdi key tool plus and brick.
No dashboard no nothing. Car not start. Can i repair with key tool plus on bench?
Autel is known to be the best at repairing a Corrupt ISTAP Flash file from a failed OBD2 Key Programming Session.
But can we use Key tool plus as an alternative way to repair a Corrupt CAS3++?
You have an option to repair CAS3++ istap in key tool plus.
Xhorse has a cool XNDP11 CAS3 solder free adapter that makes it easy. No risk evolved and easy to remove CAS. Autel makes it more difficult as you need to solder.
2 Way to find CAS3++ Repair function in key tool plus.
Way 1:
Go to BMW-Select from system- ISTAP Repair function.
Way 2:
In CAS3 Adapter option,
- Navigate to Special Functions > Flash Repair (No ESL).
- The tool begins writing a corrected flash file to the module.
- The process completes with a “Write Complete” confirmation, suggesting a successful repair.
NOTE:
1.If Key tool plus failed to repair BMW CAS3++ Istap, repair with other tools (Autel or OBDSTAR G3).
Repair BMW CAS3+ ISTAP with Autel IM508/IM608 After Failed Update via OBD
2. BMW CAS3++ & DME Compatibility Issues
- The Bosch DME paired with this CAS3++ only provides a 4-digit ISN (instead of the standard 32-digit).
- All-keys-lost (AKL) situations are nearly impossible with this setup unless using high-end tools like Autohex (which claims to convert 4-digit ISN to 32-digit).
This type only supports Autohex. AVDI, BMW Explorer, Tango, VVDI, Autel, these devices could not do this.
3. Why This BMW Model Is Problematic
- Found in V8 models (E60 5 Series, E63 6 Series, E70 X5).
- Most tools fail to extract a usable ISN, making key programming extremely difficult.
4. Alternative Solution
- If the car won’t start, the best workaround is to replace the DME and CAS with a matched set from another donor vehicle.
BE CAREFUL: Don’t downgrade the CAS if the battery voltage is under 12.8. 13 and up is the best. You will brick the CAS if you work with low voltage.
