Code Reader

[AnnieG79]

Hi. Which is the best Code Reader for a 1998 Z3 according to the mechanic. Says 1999 on Log Book though.

Annie.

 

[mwpe]

Depending on your budget, there are several choices, I have a Creator 310 which is on Amazon for £59. The Topdon is more expensive but does a lot more.

 

[Synclare]

.

 

[AnnieG79]

A BMW specialist said to buy a seat Occupy Sensor bypass. He will fit it. Hourly Rate then if it needs anything.

 

[Synclare]

.

 

[bertiejaffa]

Airbag light on is (as mentioned above) usually caused by moving the seat back and forth and the seat going over the wires and damaging them causing a short. Removing the seat to find out is easy enough, and the wires are right there - you will see any damage pretty much immediately. fixing the wires is usually a relatively easy job. Going forward, ensure the wires are held away from the seat mechanism to avoid it happening again.

I have had it when the steering wheel cabling has also caused the issue but this is generally more when someone has been removing the steering wheel (in my experience)

If you need a code reader just to reset this light then I am sure someone will be nearby to lend you one or they are circa £10-15 on ebay etc

 

[Kenhayes247]

Very plausible and cheap enough on ebay.
As no-one else has chipped in (surprising) the other possibilities are wiring under seat caught up, seat belt pre tensioner or clock spring on steering wheel. You really need to get a scanner on it, the Creator mentioned is a cheap start and will take the guess work out.
Plenty of threads on here if you do a search.

Buy a code reader, confirm the fault/s, repair and replace any bits as required. You run the risk of chasing the fault by replacing or bypassing parts. It's a false economy. The BMW specialist is suggesting what's referred to as an emulator and an hourly rate to fit it. It's cheaper to buy the scanner I would suggest, how does the specialist know its a problem with the seat occupancy sensor. As suggested above it could also be the clock spring or seat belt pre tensioner. The emulator you could fit yourself it's just an unplug and plug in device that goes in under the seat. Whilst there why not check the wiring. Get yourself a mirror on an extendable handle preferably with a light and the job is even easier.