Introduction
The Vgate vLinker BM is a professional OBD2 diagnostic tool designed specifically for BMW vehicles, offering advanced diagnostic and coding capabilities. It supports both Bluetooth (BT3.0/BLE4.0) and WiFi connectivity, making it compatible with a wide range of iOS and Android devices. This manual provides detailed instructions on how to set up, operate, and troubleshoot your vLinker BM device.
Video: Unboxing and quick start guide for the Vgate vLinker BM, demonstrating how to connect it to a smartphone app (BimmerCode) for vehicle diagnostics.
Product Features
The Vgate vLinker BM offers a comprehensive suite of features for vehicle diagnostics and customization:
- Read/Clear Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC)
- Monitor Engine RPM
- Module Reset and Activation
- Regeneration functions
- Battery Tester
- Automatic Sleep/Start function
- Remote Control capabilities
- Supports various third-party apps like OBD Fusion, JScan, Torque Lite, FORScan Lite, BimmerCode, and BimmerLink.
- Capable of upgrading over 30 ECU Control Units.
- Provides detailed Vehicle Information, Data Logging, and Data Stream.
Image: Vgate vLinker BM product overview displaying its key diagnostic and coding features.
Image: Highlights of Vgate vLinker BM, emphasizing its support for BMW diagnosis, 99% of 12V vehicle diagnosis, and official recommendation for BimmerCode.
Image: Detailed features of Vgate vLinker BM, including reading/clearing fault codes, engine data, data logging, data stream, engine RPM, and ECU control unit upgrades.
Image: Visual examples of various ECU control unit upgrades supported by Vgate vLinker BM, such as acoustic pedestrian protection, ambient lighting, CarPlay, and driving mode.
Image: Illustration of the Vgate vLinker BM's automatic wake-up and sleep feature, showing it activates with car ignition and sleeps after 30 minutes of car stall.
Image: List of supported BMW models and series (G, E, F, I, R Series, Mini, X-series, i-series) compatible with the Vgate vLinker BM.
Setup Guide
1. Vehicle Compatibility (OBDII Compliance)
To determine if your vehicle is OBDII compliant:
- United States: 1996 or newer model year vehicles. US legislation requires all cars and light trucks model year (MY) 1996 and newer to be OBD2 compliant.
- European Union: 2001 or newer model year gasoline vehicles, and 2004 or newer model year diesel vehicles.
Look for a "VEHICLE EMISSION CONTROL INFORMATION" label, often found under the hood, which may indicate "OBD II CERTIFIED".
Image: Quick Start Guide page detailing vehicle OBDII compliance and supported protocols.
2. Supported OBDII Protocols
The vLinker BM supports the following OBDII protocols:
- SAE J1850 PWM
- ISO 14230-4 KWP
- SAE J1850 VPW
- ISO 15765-4 CAN
- ISO 9141-2
3. Supported Applications (Apps)
The vLinker BM is compatible with many applications. The following are commonly used:
- For BT3.0/BLE4.0/WiFi models: TORQUE Lite/Pro, OBD Fusion, DashCommand, Car Scanner ELM OBD2, Carista OBD2, BimmerCode, BimmerLink, JScan, OBD Auto Doctor, LeafSpy, Dr. Prius, TrackAddict, Harry's LapTimer, Garage Pro, inCarDoc, etc.
For BMW vehicles, BimmerCode and BimmerLink apps are highly recommended.
4. Plug vLinker BM into the OBD Port
Locate your vehicle's OBD port, usually found on the driver's side, under the dashboard. Firmly plug the vLinker BM device into the port.
Image: Quick Start Guide page illustrating the OBD port location and initial setup steps.
5. Turn Ignition Key On, Engine Off
Turn your vehicle's ignition key to the "ON" position, but do not start the engine. The "POWER" green LED on the vLinker BM should turn on. The middle "OBD" orange LED and "HOST" red LED will blink once, and the "BT" blue LED will blink twice.
6. Set up your Phone or iPad
For Bluetooth (BM / BM+ BLE):
- Open "Settings" on your Android phone or iPad/iPhone and enable Bluetooth.
- For Android: Tap "vLinker BM" to pair the device. If prompted, enter password "1234".
- For iOS: Bluetooth LE 4.0 technology does not display the device name in iOS Bluetooth settings. You must enable Bluetooth and then proceed to the OBD app settings to connect.
For WiFi (BM WiFi):
- Open "Settings" on your phone or iPad and enable "WLAN" (Wi-Fi).
- Choose "vLinker BM" from the available networks to connect. The WiFi indicator LED (blue) should be continuously on.
IMPORTANT NOTE:
- For iOS Bluetooth connections, you will not see the device name in your iPhone's Bluetooth settings. This device only requires you to configure the Bluetooth device name in the OBD app setting. Just enable the Bluetooth button on your iOS device and continue to the OBD app setting.
- When configuring your phone, in order to get more engine data, you can start your engine.
Image: Quick Start Guide page showing phone/iPad setup for WiFi connection and important notes for iOS Bluetooth.
7. Open the BimmerCode App
Once your mobile phone (Android or iOS) is successfully configured with vLinker BM / BM+ / BM WiFi, open the BimmerCode App.
Image: Quick Start Guide page detailing the BimmerCode app interface and its functionalities for coding and unlocking hidden features.
Operating Instructions
Using BimmerCode
BimmerCode is a powerful software that allows you to code the control units in your BMW or Mini to unlock hidden features and customize your vehicle. After opening the app:
- Choose the corresponding model and your BMW car series.
- On the status page, click "Connect" to start the connection. All LED indicators will light up while syncing data from the vehicle.
- You can activate features like digital speed display in the instrument cluster, allow passengers to watch videos while driving in the iDrive system, disable Auto Start/Stop, or modify Active Sound Design.
- vLinker BM supports G series, F series, R series, I series, and E Series in the BimmerCode app.
Using BimmerLink
If you want to get more data from your BMW, use the BimmerLink App. BimmerLink provides a direct link to your BMW or Mini, allowing you to:
- Read trouble codes.
- Display sensor values in real-time.
- Check the current state of the DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter).
- Register a new battery after replacement.
- Remotely control the exhaust flap or mute the Active Sound Design.
Image: Quick Start Guide page detailing the BimmerLink app functionalities for reading trouble codes, displaying sensor values, and DPF status.
Maintenance
To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your Vgate vLinker BM:
- Keep the device clean and free from dust and moisture. Use a soft, dry cloth for cleaning.
- Store the device in a cool, dry place when not in use.
- Avoid exposing the device to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight.
- Do not attempt to open or modify the device, as this will void the warranty.
Troubleshooting
Common Issues and Solutions:
- Device not connecting via Bluetooth (iOS): Remember that for iOS, the vLinker BM's Bluetooth name will not appear in the iPhone's Bluetooth settings. Simply enable Bluetooth on your iOS device and proceed to connect within the OBD app (e.g., BimmerCode or BimmerLink).
- No engine data or limited functionality: Ensure the ignition key is in the "ON" position. For more comprehensive engine data, you may need to start your engine as indicated in the app.
- App not recognizing the adapter:
- Verify that the vLinker BM is securely plugged into the OBD port.
- Confirm that Bluetooth or WiFi is enabled on your mobile device and correctly paired/connected to the vLinker BM.
- Check the app settings to ensure the correct adapter type (vLinker Bluetooth or vLinker Wi-Fi) is selected.
- Restart both the app and your mobile device.
- Intermittent connection: Ensure there are no other Bluetooth or WiFi devices causing interference. Try moving your mobile device closer to the vLinker BM.
If you encounter persistent issues, please refer to the official PDF manual or contact support.
Specifications
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Brand Name | Vgate |
| Hardware Version | Vgate vLinker ELM327 V2.2 |
| Software Version | Vgate vLinker ELM327 V2.2 |
| Language | English |
| Special Features | Other (Diagnostic & Coding) |
| Software Update | No (as per product data, but firmware updates via app are possible) |
| Origin | Mainland China |
| Item Type | Code Readers & Scan Tools |
| Certification | CE |
| Package Length | 19 cm |
| Package Width | 15 cm |
| Package Height | 4 cm |
| Package Weight | 0.091 kg |
User Tips
- The device offers easy installation and Bluetooth pairing.
- Be prepared to spend some time with the settings to familiarize yourself with the app's functionalities.
- The vLinker BM+ BLE model is noted for its secure pairing process, requiring a button push for initial connection, then connecting automatically.
- Users have successfully used it with BMW G30 520d for BimmerCode coding.
- It works well with BMW E60 and F10 models.
- Some users have reported compatibility with other car brands like Corsa D and Volvo V40 2013 using apps like Vtool, Opl Monitor, and CarScanner.
- The device provides a stable connection with iPhones and works effectively with BimmerLink and BimmerCode.
- Firmware updates for the adapter can be performed through the application (e.g., for VOLVO SPA platform).
- The tool is capable of unlocking hidden features in compatible vehicles.
- Always check specific car model compatibility with the chosen app (e.g., BMW X6 E71 2011, BMW E46, BMW E36 M44 1997, Mini F55/F55, Kia Sportage 1.7 2012, BMW Nine-T).
Support
For further assistance, detailed instructions, or technical support, please refer to the official user manual PDF or contact Vgate support.
- Official User Manual (PDF): A comprehensive PDF manual is available for download. This manual contains additional details and diagrams that may not be covered in this quick start guide.
- Email Support: If you have any questions or require assistance, please email sale@vgate.com.cn. The support team aims to respond within 24 hours.