Code reader for BMW 2000 Z3

Jackbelg

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Oct 10, 2020
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13
Help! I have a 2000 BMW Z3 and because of a stalling problem i was advised to buy a code reader. It arrived today and I read all the instructions, slowly connected it to the car and.......... up pops a message, " Linking Error". It then told me there were 3 possible reasons, 1. Cable not connected corrected, 2. Ignition not turned on and 3. Auto not OBD compliant.I went to the website, updated the software, still the same error. It won't link with the car. My car is a 2.0 liter M roadster and there is information in the owners manual about OBD diagnostics. Anyone out there know what I am missing? Oh, the device is icarsoft BMM V 2.0 .
 

Fender2004

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Z3 2.8
Have you got the code reader, plugged into the socket in the engine compartment?
 

Fender2004

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Z3 2.8
You have to plug it in engine compartment using an adapter like this.
B87E8741-687C-403D-806D-1995910D32E3.jpeg
 

Jackbelg

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Can I purchase this from the same company? Where is the port for this? I am a mechanic's dream because I have little knowledge about the workings of cars, only that i love driving them.
 

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Fender2004

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The connection is on the left side of the engine as you stand looking at the engine. I’ve removed the cover so you can see the connection.
You can buy the adapter in lots of places eBay etc.
C3C6ADA4-BC95-4A2F-9848-089D3F3C7B2D.jpeg
 

Jackbelg

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Oct 10, 2020
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Thanks my friend, I found it. However, it was on the right side (facing the engine)i don't have a rhd auto. I will order the adaptor today, I appreciate your help today.
 

t-tony

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British Zeds
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Dec 31, 2013
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Location
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E89 Z4 23i Auto
The connector under the dash will read engine and auto. trans codes.

Tony.
 

t-tony

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E89 Z4 23i Auto
Thats a 20 pin connector alright, is there another port under the bonnet? Does your car have the 17 connector under the dash too?

Tony.
 

Jackbelg

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Oct 10, 2020
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What year is your Z3? I bought the icarsoft reader and have to order an adapter also. My car is a 2000 and has the 16 pin connector under the dash and the 20 pin connector under the hood.
 

colb

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British Zeds
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Nov 25, 2012
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Newport, South Wales,UK
Model of Z
Z3 M43 1.8 (1999) and Z4 E85 2.5 (2003)
Should be another socket in the engine bay with the pacman centre for your adapter to fit into. You probably havn't got a 16pin OBD2 socket inside the car they only started putting them in around 1999. If you have another 20pin socket in the engine compartment it will be on the other side of the engine bay, not near the two you pictured. Mates early car has three sockets in the engine bay two together like yours and the other one on opposite side of engine bay.
 

Ianmc

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Your picture doesn't show the socket. It's on the other side of the engine
 

Fender2004

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British Zeds
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Points
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Location
Durham
Model of Z
Z3 2.8
I’m sure the early cars didn’t have a socket in the cab, just in the engine compartment. My May 97 car doesn’t have one, they were only added later.
 
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