Difference between BimmerCODE & BimmerLINK and ODB2 dongle suggestions

[accidentalyEV]

I have seen BimmerCODE here and there on this forum the last 2 years and recently saw BimmerLINK. My factory warranty just expired and I want to purchase software (APP) and a ODB2 dongle to get familiar with troubleshooting and repairing my I3 as much as possible on my own. I would appreciate any advice along with suggestions on a ODB2 dongle for both BimmerCODE & BimmerLINK. Thanks in advance!

 

[alohart]

I've been using a Vgate iCar 2 OBD to WiFi adapter since 2017 with BimmerCode and more recently with BimmerLink, eFlow, and mi3 (iOS-only). It has always worked well and is one of the least expensive OBD adapters. I'm not aware of any advantage to buying a more expensive adapter. If you are in the U.S., Amazon sells it.