Full computerized service diagnosis

What is a full service diagnosis on BMW cars?

Diagnosis is the first and essential part of any repair. In modern cars, specialized equipment is used to carry it out.

Various diagnostic tools are used to service BMW and MINI cars. Diagnostic computers recommended by the BMW concern allow full diagnostics and programming of the vehicle’s controllers. Since 2007, the ISTA system has been used for diagnostics and programming in the BMW ASO network.

In our service we use the licensed version of the Autologic diagnostic computer of the international company Autologic Ltd. Autologic diagnostic computers have the same functionality as the original BMW equipment, including direct access to the servers in Munich. An added advantage is the ability to selectively program and code individual vehicle controllers, which cannot be done with the factory BMW equipment.

What elements of the car are checked with the computer?

During the diagnostic procedure, we scan the entire vehicle. We read the stored errors in all the vehicle’s controllers. We measure parameters such as, among others:

• engine speed,
• coolant temperature,
• air temperature,
• air pressure,
• boost pressure,
• exhaust gas pressure,
• injector work corrections,
• voltages and currents on individual controllers,
• and others necessary for further diagnosis.

With the ability to read error details, we find the causes of damage to vehicle components. The procedure also helps to exclude operable components, so that our repairs are precise and effective. In addition to reading the error, the diagnostic computer allows you to delete the error and suggests repair procedures related to the detected fault.

Also available are diagrams of the location of the vehicle’s controllers, wiring diagrams and the ability to measure the values of electrical signals.

Why do you need a special computer for full diagnostics?

Construction of modern cars

BMW takes full advantage of the possibilities offered by modern electronics and information technology. This is an excellent convenience for users, giving comfort in operating and driving the vehicle. It is very important to ensure the safety of the driver, passengers and passers-by through heavily developed systems (ABS, DSC, airbags, etc.). The huge number of controllers responsible for the systems, makes it necessary to use advanced tools to detect irregularities in their operation. High and low temperatures, vibration and moisture are extreme operating conditions that cause malfunctions.

Mechanical repairs versus electronic repairs

Sensors in mechanical systems such as the engine, transmission, and transfer case transmit information about parameters and anomalies to supervising controllers. Reading this information with the help of a specialized service computer, makes it possible to prevent failures and correct operating parameters. Repair “by ear” is not possible. Even in the case of obvious noises in the operation of the engine or transmission, it is necessary to resort to computer diagnostics to check the operating parameters.

Controller errors that require proper interpretation by the service technician

Fault in various components of the vehicle can cause the same errors in computer diagnosis. What is needed at this point is not only expert knowledge and the ability to properly interpret the data that occurs, but also extensive experience in servicing BMW and MINI cars. This is especially important when deciding on the replacement of specific controllers, sensors or other vehicle components. Prices of controllers oscillate from several hundred to several thousand zlotys. Sensors and controllers are also a high cost. Making an accurate diagnosis is particularly important, because repair by trial and error generates unnecessary costs.

Programming controllers

Newly installed controllers, do not have the software necessary for their proper operation. In addition to physically placing them in the right place, we need to code them (assign them to the vehicle VIN number) and program them. New controllers program themselves without major problems.

The situation is more complex when a vehicle owner wants to install a used controller. One complication is the inability to check the controller outside the vehicle. Since the controllers work together, it is necessary to match the software version throughout the vehicle (as recommended by BMW). Selective programming of individual controllers is less expensive, but does not provide assurance of proper operation. We always recommend replacing the controllers with new ones and programming the entire vehicle. Any other option is done solely at the responsibility of the vehicle owner and without guarantee of its correct functioning.

When replacing the controllers, it is important to remember the legal restrictions. In Poland, it is prohibited to install and sell used components of the vehicle’s safety systems:

• airbag controllers,
• active safety systems,
• active head restraints,
• belt tensioners and the like.

Therefore, before deciding to buy a vehicle that has been involved in a collision and has damaged safety components (deflated airbags, belt tensioners and other components), we must consider the high cost of repair.

Complete list of read errors for each customer

After each diagnosis, we offer customers a printout of the recorded errors. The diagnostic printout includes vehicle data, the date and time of the diagnostics performed and descriptions of the faults found.

Why are some repairs a higher priority than others?

When scanning a vehicle in the diagnosis, a great many, sometimes unrelated, errors appear. Their number can be very large if the vehicle has been in operation for a long time and no diagnosis or deletion of errors has been performed on it. The most significant are permanent errors. These are those that cannot be erased without repairing, replacing or adjusting a component. It is also important to relate these errors to momentary errors appearing in cooperating controllers. Only the keen eye of an experienced diagnostician can catch these errors and put the repair procedure on the right track.

At what time is a full service diagnosis done?

The diagnosis is done in a few minutes depending on the vehicle’s equipment and age. In the first stage, we read the errors, interpret them and, if necessary, delete momentary errors. Subsequent stages of diagnostics related to adjustment, adaptation or programming of controllers can take from several minutes to several hours. Before proceeding, we always inform you of the expected waiting time.

What elements make up the cost of a full diagnostic?

The cost of computer diagnostics consists of

• the time spent by the diagnostician
• use of diagnostic equipment
• access to legal software

Basic computer diagnostics costs 123 PLN (including VAT). Other elements of deeper diagnostics, possible adaptation or programming are always agreed with the driver before starting the repair.