Yes, you can code a new battery to a BMW using a Carly adapter and its accompanying app, but it's not a universal feature. Success depends on your specific Carly product and your BMW's model year. The process, known as battery registration, is critical. It informs the car's power management system (known as the IBS or Intelligent Battery Sensor) that a new battery has been installed. This allows the system to correctly manage charging rates and electrical loads, preventing premature battery failure.
The primary requirement is a Carly Pro subscription. The older, one-time-purchase "Carly for BMW" app no longer receives updates for this function. With a Pro subscription, the app can guide you through the process: you select your car model, choose "Service Functions," and then "Battery Registration." You'll need to enter the new battery's specifications, such as its Ah (Amp-hour) rating and battery type (e.g., AGM or lead-acid). The app then communicates with the car's ECU to register these details.
It's important to understand what this does and does not do. Carly performs battery registration, which is sufficient for most battery replacements. However, some newer or more complex BMW models may require battery coding, which involves programming the vehicle's ECU with the exact battery parameters. While Carly handles registration well, dedicated diagnostic tools like ISTA or some higher-end scanners are needed for full coding on certain vehicles.
| Factor | Details | Notes |
|---|
| Required Hardware | Carly OBD2 Adapter (Gen. 2 or 3) | Older adapters may not be compatible. |
| Required Software | Carly for BMW App with Carly Pro subscription | The free version lacks this feature. |
| Compatible BMW Models | Most models produced between 2000 and ~2018 | Check Carly's official compatibility list for your specific VIN. |
| Process Name | Battery Registration | Distinguish from more complex "Battery Coding." |
| Information Needed | Battery Ah Capacity (e.g., 90Ah), Battery Type (e.g., AGM) | This info is printed on the battery label. |
| Key Benefit | Extends new battery life by optimizing charge cycles | Prevents system from over/under-charging the new battery. |
Before starting, always check Carly's official website for the most up-to-date compatibility list for your car's VIN. If your model falls outside its support range, a professional mechanic with advanced tools would be the safer choice.
