Choosing the right tool for coding your BMW can be confusing, especially with options like Carly and BimmerCode available. A common question among BMW owners is whether these tools can unlock features like Apple CarPlay, and if so, which app is better suited for the job. This article breaks down the differences between Carly and BimmerCode, specifically focusing on their BMW coding capabilities and Apple CarPlay functionality to help you make an informed decision.
Originally, the question was straightforward: “What’s better, Carly or BimmerCode?”. However, the answer is nuanced and depends on your specific needs and technical comfort level. Let’s delve into a detailed comparison.
Carly: User-Friendly with Subscription Costs
Carly presents itself as a user-friendly option, particularly for beginners. It operates on a subscription model, currently priced at £59.04 annually for BMW, or £74.04 for all car brands. In addition to the subscription, Carly mandates the use of their proprietary OBD2 adapter, costing £84.80 including shipping. This adapter lock-in is a significant factor to consider.
While Carly boasts ease of use with its graphic user interface (GUI), the recurring subscription and mandatory adapter can make it a pricier long-term option.
BimmerCode & BimmerLink: One-Time Purchase with Broader Compatibility
BimmerCode takes a different approach with a one-time purchase price of £30.99. It generally offers more extensive coding capabilities compared to Carly, particularly for advanced users.
For comprehensive functionality comparable to Carly, especially regarding diagnostics, battery registration, and sensor monitoring, you’d likely also need BimmerLink, also priced at a one-time payment of £30.99. Even with purchasing both apps, the total cost can be less than Carly’s subscription over a couple of years, and you own the apps outright.
A significant advantage of BimmerCode and BimmerLink is their compatibility with a wide array of universal OBD2 adapters, starting from around £30. This flexibility allows you to choose an adapter that might also be compatible with other OBD2 apps like Torque, Speedbot, DeepODB, and Dashcommand, enhancing the versatility of your diagnostic and coding tools.
Coding Capabilities and Apple CarPlay
BimmerCode generally receives higher marks for the depth of its coding options. It allows access to more parameters within each in-car module, giving experienced users greater control. To utilize the full potential of BimmerCode, especially for intricate customizations, you’ll often need to engage “expert mode.” This mode presents the coding language used by BMW technicians, which can be initially daunting as it involves abbreviations and some German terminology. However, resources like online forums and coding cheat sheets are readily available to assist in navigating expert mode. This level of access can be crucial for unlocking features like Apple CarPlay, depending on your BMW model and existing software.
Both Carly and BimmerCode simplify common coding tasks through their GUI. For everyday adjustments like disabling bulb monitoring, turning off auto start/stop, customizing lighting settings, modifying door lock behavior, and activating hidden features, both apps offer user-friendly interfaces requiring no specialized knowledge or language translation. Enabling Apple CarPlay through coding often falls within these accessible GUI options for many BMW models, making it achievable even for users without deep technical expertise.
OBD2 Adapter Considerations
The original forum post mentioned using this OBD2 adapter (the black one) and confirmed its seamless connectivity. Choosing a reliable OBD2 adapter is crucial for a smooth coding experience. While Carly restricts you to their proprietary adapter, BimmerCode and BimmerLink’s compatibility with universal adapters provides freedom and potentially cost savings.
Conclusion: BimmerCode for Power, Carly for Simplicity
For users seeking extensive coding options and a one-time purchase model, BimmerCode, often paired with BimmerLink for diagnostics, is generally the preferred choice. The availability of expert mode and broader adapter compatibility caters to enthusiasts and those wanting deeper control over their BMW’s features, including potentially enabling Apple CarPlay.
Carly excels in user-friendliness, making it attractive to beginners who prioritize simplicity and ease of use. While the subscription and proprietary adapter add to the long-term cost, the streamlined interface and readily accessible customer support can be valuable for less technically inclined users who want to perform basic coding and diagnostics, including potentially activating Apple CarPlay, without delving into complex settings.
Ultimately, the “better” app depends on your individual needs, budget, and technical proficiency. If you’re looking for the most comprehensive coding capabilities and flexibility, especially if you anticipate frequent use and exploring advanced features like Apple CarPlay activation, BimmerCode is likely the superior choice. If you prefer a straightforward, all-in-one solution with excellent user support and are comfortable with a subscription model, Carly remains a viable option.
