How to Add BMW BDC2 Key with Autel IM508 IM608?

 Autel MaxiIM IM508/IM608 updated BMW BDC2 key programming on Feb. 19th, 2025.  It’s on bench eeprom job, no obd, and only add key.

Check the detailed update information in the previous post.

Here obdii365.com will show how to add a spare BMW BDC2 key with IM608 II on bench.

Tools needed: 
Autel IM508 or IM608 series devices.
Autel G-Box 2/G-box 3
Autel ikey universal key BMW style (available in 3-button and 4-button configurations)
Original key

Part 1: How to Purchase software card to use this function?

Way 1: Preprocess ECU

You pay per vin or buy yearly subscription to use this function. Before you proceed to preprocess ecu, you will be promoted to pay upfront if you don’t purchase yearly subscription, before Autel will let you to proceed into preprocessing.

Go to IMMO- BMW- System Selection- Immobilizer- BDC2 Immobilizer- Programming operation- ECU preprocessing

Autel will ask to purchase activation card to use this function. Choose 1 session or 1 year update card and pay via Paypal or Credit card.



ECU Proprocessing finished.

Way 2:
It is recommended to complete payment in “Advanced Service List” menu on the home page.

Way 3: Purchase 1 year software card from us directly. Provide your device serial number to activate license.
https://www.obdii365.com/wholesale/autel-immo1yrup-software-card.html

After preprocessing ECU, we go to key programming.

Part 2: Add Key

You can do this via system selection or smart selection.

System selection:
Go to IMMO- BMW- System Selection- Immobilizer- BDC2 Immobilizer- Key operation-Add Key
Through this menu, you can see the operating guide and bench wiring diagram.

We can also make a smart selection.
Smart selection:
Go to IMMO – BMW- Smart Selection- BDC02 Immobilizer- Add key

Perform 8 steps below to add key.

Step 1: Read Vehicle Information
Support part of BDC2 system version numbers.

Step 2: Backup coding
Step 3: Read secret key
In this process, it requires a subscription. Payment is required for this function.
We have purchase the software card, select 1 year software card and hit OK to continue.


Need to read the operation steps and precautions in detail and complete the wiring.
Steps:

1. Remove the BDC2 module from the vehicle.

2. Prepare the G-BOX and the corresponding DB15 cable.

3. Connect the DB15 cable to the BDC02 module, using the wiring diagram.
(Note: Use wires that are easy to operate as EEPROM PIN2 needs to be disconnected and reconnected multiple times in the subsequent process)

4. Connect the DB15 cable to the G-BOX and then connect the P side of the G-BOX to the  IM508/IM608.

Note:
Strictly follow the following operating specifications, otherwise function failure or ECU damage may occur.
Ensure that the wiring harness and metal clips not in use are away from the ECU to prevent short circuits that cause ECU damage.

Remove the BDC02 module from the vheicle.

Make sure the idle wiring harness and metal clips are kept away from the module throughout the whole process to prevent short circuits from causing damage to the ECU.



Hit OK after setting up the whole connection as the wiring diagram.
Manually disconnect EEPROM PIN2 from DB15 GND.


Manually connect the DC IN 12V power supply of the G-box.


Manually disconnect the DC IN 12V power supply of the G-box.
Manually disconnect EEPROM PIN2 from DB15 GND.
Manually connect EEPROM PIN2 from DB15 GND.
Manually connect the DC IN 12V power supply of the G-box.
Manually disconnect EEPROM PIN2 from DB15 GND (Do not disconnect the 12v power supply).
Strictly follow the instructions and repeat these several times until read the secret key successfully.

Step 4: Restore Flash
Step 5: Restore coding.
After the restore coding is finished, install the BDC2 module back to vehicle. Connect the device to the OBD connector of the vehicle. Turn on the ignition.

Step 6: Read OEM key information
Place a working key (original key) at the sensing coil of the vehicle.
Connect the device to the programmer and than place the working key in the key slot of the programmer.

Reading key information. This process takes about 5 min.

Step 7: Generate dealer key

Select an unused key position and press on Programmer generation key button.

Connect the device to the programmer and than place a new key in the key slot of the programmer.

Generate dealer key successfully.

Step 8: Learn key
Learn all the newly generated keys in sequence in the following steps:
1. Take other keys out of the vehicle.
2. Place the key to be learned close to the key sensing area under the steering wheel.


Test both keys.
Check if the time display in the center console is normal and if rearview mirror can be folded automatically.
If abnormal, make adjustments manually in the center console.
Done.

https://www.obdii365.com/service/how-to-add-bmw-bdc2-key-with-autel-im608-and-gbox.html

Autel IM608 and AutoproPad G2 Comparison

 When it comes to automotive diagnostic tools, the Autel MaxiIM IM608 II  and the Autopropad G2 are two popular choices among locksmiths and automotive technicians. Both devices have their strengths and weaknesses, and choosing the right one depends on your specific needs and experience level. In this article, we’ll break down the key differences between these two devices to help you make an informed decision.

1. Ease of Use and Speed

Autopropad G2

• Pros:
  • The Autopropad G2 is known for its simplicity and speed, especially for common jobs like Ford, GM, and Chrysler vehicles.
  • Many users feel that the Autopropad G2 is faster when it comes to plugging in and completing tasks, even if the difference is minimal.
  • The device has a user-friendly app that provides step-by-step instructions for programming, which is particularly helpful for beginners.
• Cons:
  • Some users report encountering random errors that require redoing tasks, which can be frustrating.

Autel IM608

• Pros:
  • The IM608 is a more advanced tool and can handle a wider range of vehicles, including BMW, Mercedes, and Range Rover.
  • It is highly reliable for complex tasks, such as all-keys-lost situations and advanced diagnostics.
• Cons:
  • The IM608 lacks a detailed app that guides users through the programming process, which can be a drawback for those who prefer more hand-holding.

 

 

2. Vehicle Coverage

Autopropad G2

• Pros:
  • The Autopropad G2 is excellent for basic vehicles like Ford, GM, Chrysler, and Hyundai.
  • It provides clear instructions for programming, making it ideal for beginners or those who primarily work on common domestic vehicles.
• Cons:
  • The Autopropad G2 has limited coverage for European and luxury vehicles. For example, it may not be the best choice for BMW or Mercedes programming.

Autel IM608

• Pros:
  • The IM608 offers extensive coverage, including BMW, Mercedes, Range Rover, and other European vehicles.
  • It is capable of handling more advanced tasks, such as reading and programming control units, making it a better choice for experienced technicians.
• Cons:
  • The IM608 does not provide detailed programming instructions, which can be a disadvantage for beginners.

 

 

3. App and User Guidance

Autopropad G2

• Pros:
  • The Autopropad G2 comes with a helpful app that provides step-by-step instructions for programming. This is a major advantage for beginners or those who want to save time by knowing exactly what to do before starting a job.
  • The app also indicates whether the device can handle a specific vehicle, which adds to its convenience.
• Cons:
  • The app is not available for the IM608, which means users of the Autel device must rely on their own knowledge or external resources.

Autel IM608

• Pros:
  • The IM608 is more advanced and can handle a wider range of vehicles, but it lacks the detailed guidance provided by the Autopropad G2 app.
• Cons:
  • The absence of a detailed app means users must be more experienced or willing to learn the programming process on their own.

 

 

 

4. Hardware and Connectivity

Autopropad G2

• Pros:
  • The Autopropad G2 uses a simple OBD-II cable connection, which many users find faster and more reliable.
  • The device is lightweight and easy to carry around.
• Cons:
  • Some users dislike the Bluetooth connectivity option, preferring a hardwired connection for stability.

Autel IM608

• Pros:
  • The IM608 offers both Bluetooth and USB connectivity, giving users more flexibility.
  • It is a more robust device, capable of handling more complex tasks and a wider range of vehicles.
• Cons:
  • The IM608 is bulkier and may not be as convenient for quick jobs.

 

 

5. Advanced Features

Autopropad G2

• Pros:
  • The Autopropad G2 is great for basic programming tasks and is user-friendly, making it ideal for beginners.
  • It is particularly useful for domestic vehicles like Ford, GM, and Chrysler.
• Cons:
  • The device lacks advanced features for European and luxury vehicles, which limits its versatility.

Autel IM608

• Pros:
  • The IM608 excels in advanced diagnostics and programming, especially for BMW, Mercedes, and other European vehicles.
  • It can handle more complex tasks, such as reading control units and performing all-keys-lost functions.
• Cons:
  • The IM608 is more expensive and may be overkill for those who only work on basic vehicles.

 

 

6. Recommendations

For Beginners or Basic Use

• If you’re just starting out or primarily work on domestic vehicles like Ford, GM, and Chrysler, the Autopropad G2 is the better choice. Its user-friendly app and straightforward interface make it easy to use, even for those with limited experience.

For Advanced Users or European Vehicles

• If you’re looking to take your locksmith or automotive business to the next level, the Autel IM608 is the way to go. It offers extensive coverage for European and luxury vehicles, making it a more versatile and powerful tool.

 

Conclusion

Both the Autel IM608 and the Autopropad G2 are excellent key programming tools, but they cater to different needs. The Autopropad G2 is ideal for beginners and those who work on basic vehicles, thanks to its user-friendly app and simplicity. On the other hand, the Autel IM608 is better suited for advanced users who need to handle a wider range of vehicles and more complex tasks.

Ultimately, the choice between these two devices depends on your experience level and the types of vehicles you work on. If you can afford it, having both tools in your arsenal would provide the best of both worlds.

Repair BMW X3 CAS3 ISTA if Failed to Downgrade by OBD?

 Problem:

I’m working on a 2013 bmw x1 with Autel IM508.
A locksmith attempted all keys lost and bricked the CAS3 ista version.
Locksmith says it required downgrade, it failed during that process.
There’s no original eeprom or flash data.
The locksmith failed to read the CAS files and save them.

How to repair the cas3 module?

 

 

Solution:

If you downgrade by OBD, it fails to reflash it properly. 

If it bricked during obd update, you should be able to recover it with bench read data.

Bench read flash and eeprom, run repair on files, write new files to CAS on bench and reinstall to car, if it’s all keys lost read isn from dme/dde, make key from files you’ve already got and you’re done.
You need to make sure you get a clean read from original case.

I damaged the board on original cas, got a read on bench, repaired the files and put them on new/used cas and all worked perfectly afterwards.

 Repair BMW CAS3+ ISTAP with Autel IM508/IM608 After Failed Update via OBD

Autel IM508 IM608 Adds Online Unlock VAG SFD Function!

 Good news for Autel MaxiIM users. Autel MaxiIM IM508, IM508S, IM608, IM608 II (Pro) series series now update online unlock VAG SFD function.  OTOFIX IM1/IM2 works very well too.

 

Feb. 2025 Update:

• Optimize the following special function: SAS
• Optimize SFD unlocking process.

Autel users can purchase 24-hout access to one vehicle for $15 or a full year of access and unlimited VINs for $120.

Unlock Method

①24H token for one VIN ($15 for a token)

②1-year token subscription* ($120 for 1 year)

Check SFD unlock background information, supported vehicle list, SFD Unlocking Process here:

How to Online Unlock VAG SFD with Autel MaxiSys (Purchase Tokens in Device)?

Autel Restore Renault Daica Add Key & Read PIN Function!!!

 Dear Valued Partner,

Autel would like to inform you that we are about to release a new software update for Autel MaxiIM KM100 /IM508/IM608 series products to improve coverage for Renault and Dacia models.

This update optimizes the coverage of the “Add Key” and “Read PIN” functions for Renault and Dacia vehicles.

Please refresh and check on February 14th to see if you can receive one of the three upgrade versions (depending on the device platform) and upgrade as soon as possible to ensure normal functionality:”
• 32-bit platform: V5.22
• 64-bit platform: V2.34
• KM100 platform: V1.77

MaxiIM IM508S 64-bit platform (S model) V2.34 Renault/Dacia Car List:

MaxiIM IM508 IM608 32-bit platform V5.22 Renault/Dacia Car List:

Autel KM100 V1.77 Renault/Dacia Car List:

www.obdii365.com

Autel IM608 Program ProMaster City All Keys Lost with Activate Alarm

 Question: 

Can the Autel IM608 II do all keys lost for a Ram Promaster City 2015? It has active alarm. The BCM gets locked with alarm.

 

Here is the clue.

If without active alarm, IM608 can do via OBD. It cannot program all keys lost if BCM gets locked with alarm.

The Fiat uses a different BCM and right now autel has a flash in there that modifies it and kicks out the alarm but that setting doesn’t work on a ProMaster.
If the door is opened or the key is turned on and the chip is not recognized it’ll be an alarm state if the doors were locked doesn’t matter how you open them.

When the alarms active you can’t make a key and the only way to deactivate the alarm is do what’s called an emergency start or you simulate the key after reading the data and then start the vehicle or new BCM this is how the dealer accomplishes it.

The only option is to pull the BCM simulate the key.  Read immo data from bcm to make simulated key to disarm alarm.

And it was a ProMaster City. With a key ignition. The push start ones don’t need all of this.
This is not required on a regular ProMaster or a push start one.

Bench on bcm read data to make simulator key ran for 2 mins with blade and simulator held next to ignition. BCM unlocked key programs like normal.

It’s on simulator key and you use metal blade to turn it with simulator and start vehicle and let run for like 2 minutes at least to get bcm unlocked. You have to simulate the key and deactivate the alarm or it won’t let you get into programming mode.

The procedure is on the IMMO side.

Open up the all keys lost menu then click on and start the process then it’ll bring up the diagrams.

There are 4 bcm options that Autel shows.

All soldering are on the back side.

Don’t split make sure to use the resistor it asked for. Had to grab a 10 ohm resistor. It won’t read with wrong resistor.

You have to go back and connect to the car once it loads the diagram (Autel will show you the diagram) and loads into the thing you can’t exit then go do all the rest of it.

You have to have an APB 112 and a testkey theoretically you could drive it all day long with a simulator and a test key once you make the file.

 

 

For example:

Promaster city 2015 keys lost locked bcm active alarm is done.