1. Introduction
The Vgate vLinker BM+ ELM327 V2.2 is a multi-system professional tool designed for comprehensive vehicle diagnostics. It offers advanced features for BMW vehicles, including coding and module activation, and is compatible with a wide range of other OBD2 compliant cars. This manual provides detailed instructions for setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting to ensure optimal use of your device.
2. Product Variants
The Vgate vLinker BM+ is available in different Bluetooth versions to suit various device compatibilities:
- Vgate vLinker BM+ Bluetooth 4.0: Compatible with both Android phones and iPhones.
- Vgate vLinker BM+ Bluetooth 3.0: Compatible with Android phones only.
3. Vehicle Compatibility
3.1. Supported BMW Models
The Vgate vLinker BM+ is specifically designed to support a wide range of BMW models, including G Series, E Series, F Series, I Series, and R Series. Specific supported models include:
- BMW 1 Series: F20, F21
- BMW 2 Series: F22, F23, F87, Active Tourer F45, Gran Tourer F46
- BMW 3 Series: F30, F31, F34, F35, F80
- BMW 4 Series: F32, F33, F36, F82, F83
- BMW 5 Series: F07, F10, F11, F18, F90, G30, G31
- BMW 6 Series: F06, F12, F13
- BMW 7 Series: F01, F02, F03, F04, G11
- BMW X1: F48
- BMW X2: F39
- BMW X3: F25, G01
- BMW X4: F26
- BMW X5: F15, F85
- BMW X6: F16, F86
- BMW i3, i8
- Mini: F54, F55, F56, F57, F60
3.2. General Vehicle Coverage
The vLinker BM+ is compatible with most OBD2 standard vehicles. Compatibility generally depends on the vehicle's manufacturing year and region:
- America Car List (including Brazil): Requires standard OBD2, released from 2001 onwards. Compatible with Chrysler, Ford, GM, Jeep.
- Europe Car List: Requires standard OBD2, released from 2004 onwards. Compatible with Alfa Romeo, SAAB, Acura, Opel, Audi, Seat, Peugeot, Renault, Bentley, Skoda, Daewoo, Benz, Daihatsu, Land Rover, BMW, Vauxhall, Citroen, Volvo, Fiat, VW, Ford, Jaguar.
- Asia Car List (including Australia): Requires standard OBD2. Japanese cars released from 2006 onwards (KIA, Isuzu, Honda, Mitsubishi, Hyundai, Dacia, Lexus, Mazda, Nissan, Subaru, Suzuki, Toyota). Chinese cars released from 2011 onwards (BYD, Chery, Geely, Great Wall, Karry).
- Russia Car List: Specific models and years:
- Ssangyong Actyon: A200 XDI Diesel (2007-2017), 2.4 Diesel (2009-2017).
- Ssangyong Korando: 2.0 TD Diesel (2013-2017).
- Ssangyong Kyron: 2.0 Diesel (2007-2017).
- Ssangyong Rexton: 2.7 XVT Diesel (2007 or 2011-2017).
- Ssangyong Rodius: 2.7 Diesel (2007-2017).
- LADA Niva: 1.7 (2011-2017).
- LADA Priora: 1.5 (2008-2017).
3.3. How to Check OBDII Compliance
To determine if your vehicle is compliant with OBD II, open the hood and locate a sticker labeled "VEHICLE EMISSION CONTROL INFORMATION". This sticker will indicate if your vehicle is OBD II certified.
4. Supported Applications
The Vgate vLinker BM+ is perfectly compatible with a wide range of diagnostic and coding applications. It is the official recommended adapter for BimmerCode and BimmerLink. Other compatible applications include:
- BimmerCode
- BimmerLink
- TORQUE Lite/Pro
- OBD Fusion
- DashCommand
- Car Scanner ELM OBD2
- Carista OBD2
- JScan
- OBD Auto Doctor
- LeafSpy
- Dr. Prius
- TrackAddict
- Harry's Lap Timer
- inCar Doc
- And many more (the compatibility list may be updated)
5. Key Features
The Vgate vLinker BM+ offers a comprehensive set of features for vehicle diagnostics and control:
- Diagnostic Functions: Read/Clear Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), monitor Engine RPM, perform Module Reset, Module Activation, Remote Control, Regeneration, and Battery Testing.
- ECU Control Unit Upgrades: Supports upgrades for 30+ ECU Control Units, transforming your BMW into a top-level version.
- Universal Compatibility: 100% original adapter compatible with over 95% of world car models.
- Software Support: Perfectly compatible with BimmerCode/BimmerLink and supports almost all ELM327/ELM329/OBDLINK adapter software.
- BMW Specific: Supports BMW adjustment and programming.
- Automatic Operation: Features fully automatic operation with automatic sleep and start functionality. The device automatically recognizes car start and stop, eliminating the need to plug/unplug it every time.
- Extensive Protocol Support: Supports multiple protocols including 15 ELM format protocols, 23 STN format protocols, and up to 64 user-defined protocols. It also supports the 5 standard OBDII protocols (SAE J1850 VPW, SAE J1850 PWM, ISO 9141-2, ISO 14230-4, ISO 15765-4 CAN) and additional protocols like SAE J1939 CAN and ISO 11898 (raw CAN).
- Advanced Instruction Set: Fully compatible with ELM's AT command set and STN's ST command set. Includes 39 VT macro commands for simplified communication steps.
- Power Management: Compatible with ELM and STN power management solutions, supporting up to 5 ways to enter sleep mode (e.g., UART silence, battery low voltage, OBD bus silence) and up to 5 ways to wake up (e.g., UART active, battery voltage drop, OBD bus active, key). Device sleep power consumption is less than 2 mA.
- Data Handling: OBD request byte up to 48 bytes for special long frame communication. UART data buffer up to 2K bytes, with baudrate increased to 230.4Kbps.
- Storage: 256-byte storage unit with over 100,000 erasable times. Supports read and write operations on any unit in the storage area using VT commands.
- CAN Protocol Features: Supports "Mix ID Sending" mode of CAN protocol, optional formatted send data, multiple WM sequence settings, AT command to manually set WM sequence, and permanent links between protocols and private WM sequences.
- Firmware Updates: Features a secure bootloader for easy firmware updates.
6. Setup Instructions
6.1. Easy Steps to Use
Using the Vgate vLinker BM+ involves four simple steps:
- Software Installation
- OBD Device Access
- Use the Software
- Connect the Phone
6.2. Android Phone Setup
- Insert Adapter & Power On: Insert the adapter into the car's OBD interface. Turn the ignition to the "Key On Engine Off" position.
- Bluetooth Pairing: Open your phone's Bluetooth settings. Search for the device name "vLinker BM-Android" and click "Pair". If prompted, enter the pairing code: 1234.
- App Connection: Once paired, open your diagnostic app (e.g., BimmerCode).
- App Settings: Navigate to the app's "Settings" menu.
- Select Adapter: In the settings, select "vLinker Bluetooth" as the adapter.
- Connect: Return to the main page of the app and click "CONNECT".
6.3. iOS System Setup
- Insert Adapter & Power On: Insert the adapter into the car's OBD interface. Turn the ignition to the "Key On Engine Off" position.
- App Bluetooth Settings: Open your diagnostic app (e.g., BimmerCode). Navigate to the app's "Settings" menu. Note: iPhones do not display Bluetooth device names directly in iOS Bluetooth settings for this device. You must enable the Bluetooth button within the OBD app settings. Bluetooth LE 4.0 technology is not applicable for supported profiles.
- Select Adapter: In the app's settings, click "Adapter".
- Choose vLinker Bluetooth: Select "vLinker Bluetooth" from the list of adapters. Then, click the upper left corner to return.
- Confirm Selection: Click "Done" to go back to the main page of the app.
- Connect: On the main page, click "Connect".
- Select Vehicle: Choose your specific vehicle model (e.g., BMW 7 Series...).
- Communication: Wait for the BimmerCode app to establish communication with your car.
- Select Control Unit: Once communication is successful, you can select the desired control unit to work with.
7. Operation
Once the Vgate vLinker BM+ is successfully connected to your smartphone and vehicle, you can begin using your chosen diagnostic or coding application. The specific functions and interface will vary depending on the app (e.g., BimmerCode, BimmerLink, Torque Pro). Generally, you will be able to:
- Read and clear diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
- Monitor real-time sensor data and engine parameters.
- Perform coding and adaptations for supported vehicle modules (especially for BMW).
- Access various control units for specific functions like module reset or activation.
The device features automatic wake-up and sleep functionality, recognizing when the car starts and stops. This means you typically do not need to manually plug or unplug the device for each use.
8. Maintenance
- Keep the vLinker BM+ device clean and dry.
- Store the device in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures when not in use.
- Avoid dropping the device or subjecting it to strong impacts.
- Do not attempt to disassemble or modify the device, as this will void the warranty.
9. Troubleshooting
9.1. Device Not Connecting
- Check Bluetooth Version: Ensure you are using the correct Bluetooth version for your phone and device. Bluetooth 3.0 is for Android only, while Bluetooth 4.0 (BLE) supports both Android and iOS.
- Ignition Status: Verify that the car's ignition is in the "Key On Engine Off" position.
- App Settings: Double-check that the correct adapter ("vLinker Bluetooth") is selected within your diagnostic app's settings.
- iOS Specifics: For iOS, remember that the device name may not appear in the phone's general Bluetooth settings. You must enable Bluetooth within the OBD app itself and select the adapter there.
- Airplane Mode: For a more stable connection, some users recommend switching your Android or iOS device to airplane mode before attempting to connect.
9.2. Compatibility Issues
- If you are unsure about your car's compatibility, please provide your car model, release year, vehicle capacity, fuel type (diesel/gasoline), and engine work voltage (12V/24V) to Vgate support for assistance.
9.3. App Functionality
- Remember that diagnostic and coding applications like BimmerCode or BimmerLink may require separate purchases or subscriptions for full functionality. Vgate is not responsible for charges related to third-party software.
10. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model | vLinker BM+ ELM327 V2.2 |
| Software Version | V2.2 |
| Hardware Version | Newest |
| Wireless Support | Bluetooth (BT3.0 / BT4.0) |
| Supported Systems | Android (BT3.0), Android/iOS (BT4.0) |
| Interface | BR/EDR |
| OBD Request Bytes | Up to 1K bytes |
| UART Data Buffer | Up to 2K bytes |
| Baudrate | 230.4Kbps |
| Storage Unit | 256-byte |
| Erasable Times | >100,000 |
| Sleep Power Consumption | < 2 mA |
| Automotive Fit Type | Universal fit |
| Battery Included | No |
| Certification | CE |
| Origin | Mainland China |
| Supported Languages | Arabic, Czech, Danish, Dutch, English, Finnish, French, German, Greek, Hungarian, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Norwegian, Polish, Portuguese, Russian, Slovenian, Spanish, Swedish, Thai, Turkish |
10.1. Supported Protocols
The vLinker BM+ supports a wide array of communication protocols:
- ELM Format Protocols: 15 protocols
- STN Format Protocols: 23 protocols
- User-Defined Protocols: Up to 64 protocols
- OBDII 5 Standard Protocols:
- SAE J1850 VPW
- SAE J1850 PWM
- ISO 9141-2
- ISO 14230-4
- ISO 15765-4 CAN
- Additional Protocols:
- SAE J1939 CAN
- ISO 11898 (raw CAN)
These protocols cover almost 99% of the OBDII cars on the market.
11. User Tips
- For a stable Bluetooth connection, especially with iOS devices, consider enabling airplane mode on your phone before connecting the vLinker BM+.
- Always ensure your car's ignition is in the "Key On Engine Off" position when connecting the device and using diagnostic apps.
- Remember that while the vLinker BM+ is compatible with many apps, some advanced features or full versions of apps like BimmerCode and BimmerLink may require separate purchases or subscriptions.
- If you encounter connection issues with an iPhone, remember to select the adapter within the diagnostic app's settings, as it may not appear in the general iOS Bluetooth list.
- For BMW owners, this device is highly recommended for coding and fault tracking, providing reliable performance for various F and G series models.
12. Warranty and Support
For technical support, sales inquiries, or any questions regarding your Vgate vLinker BM+, please use the following contact information:
- Sales: sale@vgate.com.cn
- Technical Support: support@vgate.com.cn
- Website: www.vgatemall.com
A detailed user manual in PDF format is available for download: User manual (PDF)
13. Package Contents
The Vgate vLinker BM+ package typically includes:
- 1 x Vgate vLinker BM+ (either BT3.0 or BT4.0 version, depending on your selection)
- 1 x User Manual
