An ADS interface alternative for older BMWs
Many modules on older BMWs talk BMW's older protocols: DS1 and concept 1 on the K- and L-lines, and KW-71, which wakes a module with a slow init (an address sent at 5 baud). It isn't a matter of OBD2 arriving in 1996: the E36 kept modules on the L-line until the end of its production in 1999, and some modules on the E38 and E39 use these protocols too. A K+DCAN cable doesn't do all of that, which is why owners of these cars have used an ADS interface: a box for INPA on a Windows laptop with a serial (COM) port.
AutoLingo for BMW's adapter does the L-line and the slow init itself, so the same Bluetooth adapter and app that read a newer BMW read these cars too: through the 20-pin cable on cars with the round 20-pin socket under the hood.
| AutoLingo for BMW | An ADS interface and INPA | |
|---|---|---|
| What you need | A phone or tablet, AutoLingo for BMW's adapter ($119.00 launch price ($189.00 later)) and, for the round 20-pin socket, the 20-pin cable | A Windows laptop with a serial (COM) port, an ADS interface and INPA set up for it |
| Protocols | DS1, DS2, concept 1 and KW-71 (slow init), on the K- and L-lines | All of BMW's protocols of the time |
| Faults | Many modules on the early E36, E34, E32 and E31, in plain English; the compatibility check lists them per model | Every module INPA has a script for, with German texts on many |
| Live data | Yes, on the modules the app reads | Yes |
| Coding | In development: some E-chassis settings, module by module once confirmed on a real car | With NCS Expert |
| Setup | Install the app from Google Play (App Store coming soon) | Install and configure INPA for the ADS interface on Windows |
Choose An ADS interface and INPA if
- You need a module the compatibility check doesn't list for your car, or you need every coding option today.
Choose AutoLingo for BMW if
- You'd rather not keep an old laptop with a serial port for one car, and want the faults in plain English.
Check your BMW: what AutoLingo for BMW does on it, module by module.
Sources
Checked October 17, 2026: prices and features change, so check theirs before you buy. Spot something out of date? Tell us and we'll fix it.
Carly, BimmerLink, BimmerCode, INPA, ISTA and NCS Expert are trademarks of their owners. AutoLingo isn't affiliated with them or with BMW.
More comparisons: Carly BimmerLink and BimmerCode INPA, ISTA and NCS Expert A K+DCAN cable and INPA Generic OBD2 apps
AutoLingo for BMW adapter
$119.00 Launch price $189.00 later
The app is free; you buy the adapter once. Free shipping within the US.
Order the adapter- 30-day returns, and a lifetime warranty (physical damage excluded)
