Choosing the right coding app for your BMW or MINI can be confusing. A common question arises: What’s better, Carly or Bimmercode? This article breaks down the key differences to help you decide.
Carly (https://www.mycarly.com/) operates on a subscription model, costing £59.04 annually for BMW or £74.04 for all brands. You must also purchase their proprietary OBD2 adapter for £84.80. Notably, Carly does not support universal adapters. This bundled approach can seem convenient but adds up over time.
On the other hand, Bimmercode (https://bimmercode.app/) offers a one-time purchase of £30.99. For comprehensive diagnostics and features comparable to Carly, you might also consider BimmerLink (https://www.bimmerlink.app/), also a one-time £30.99 purchase.
Bimmercode and BimmerLink stand out with their compatibility with a wide array of universal OBD2 adapters, starting from around £30. These adapters are versatile and can be used with other apps like Torque, Speedbot, and Dashcommand, offering greater flexibility.
Bimmercode is often favored for its extensive coding capabilities within each car module. However, unlocking the full potential requires using “expert mode.” This mode uses coding terminology similar to BMW technicians, which may require some research or community support to navigate, especially as some terms are in German. Resources like online coding cheat sheets and forums can be invaluable for translating jargon.
Despite the “expert mode,” both Carly and Bimmercode offer user-friendly graphic interfaces (GUI) for everyday coding tasks. Functions like disabling bulb monitoring, auto start-stop, customizing lighting, adjusting door locks, and unlocking hidden features are easily accessible with a few clicks in both apps, requiring no specialized knowledge. This ease of use covers the most common coding adjustments users seek.
In conclusion, while Carly presents an all-in-one solution with a focus on user-friendliness, Bimmercode, combined with BimmerLink if needed, offers a more cost-effective and feature-rich alternative, particularly for users interested in deeper coding and utilizing universal OBD2 adapters. The “Carly Mini Coding List” of features, while user-friendly, may be more limited compared to the broader coding spectrum available with Bimmercode’s expert mode. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your coding needs and budget.
If you have experience with Carly, Bimmercode, or alternative apps, sharing your adapter recommendations and reviews is welcome.
