3 ms·
> very expensive factory service tool. You can buy an ODB2 reader for ~$20 on amazon. If you are working on any car newer than 1990, an ODB2 reader is a stand
by snarfy 12y ago
> very expensive factory service tool.
You can buy an ODB2 reader for ~$20 on amazon. If you are working on any car newer than 1990, an ODB2 reader is a standard tool in your drawer.
The real problem is, to change the headlights on my car, you have to remove the front wheels and part of the wheel well. If anything these shenanigans help independent shops. If they built cars to last and be maintainable, there would be a lot fewer independent shops.
- bri3d 12y agoAn OBD2 reader doesn't work for proprietary diagnosis, only regulated/standardized emissions related issues. The example I supplied (Service Now mileage indicator, not Check Engine Light) was a very specific one with Porsche in mind. Most post-2004 Porsches have no procedure to reset that indicator without using an official PIWIS ($13000 + subscription, if you can even get one) or reversed Durametric ($250 + illegal if automakers claim their software can't be reversed). Another example of anti-competitive dealer software is "coding." Replacing the headlight control module in a BMW, for example, requires it be "coded" to the car's control systems. Many DIYers and independent shops use straight-up pirated BMW diagnostic tools, because again, the "blessed" way to do so costs thousands of dollars.
- philwelch 12y agoI'm gonna just be cynical and say that BMW just wants it to be expensive to maintain a BMW. How else is it going to remain a Veblen good?