When it comes to mileage correction on BMW instrument clusters, particularly for EEPROM chips like the 35160WT and 35128WT, two tools dominate the conversation: the Xhorse VVDI PROG and the CGPRO 9S12 programmer. Here’s an in-depth comparison to help you decide which tool is best for your needs.
Background:
The Challenge of 35160WT and 35128WT EEPROM chips, such as the 35160WT and its variant, the 35128WT, are commonly found in BMW dashboards and store critical data, including mileage information. Modifying this data, particularly for mileage correction, is a delicate process due to the chips’ security features. Some use the R270 programmer with a custom board to erase the first two lines of data on 35160WT chips. While effective for the 35160WT, this setup couldn’t handle the more complex 35128WT. To explore premium options, you will need VVDI PROG or CGPRO.
VVDI PROG:
The VVDI PROG is a robust tool known for its flexibility in reading and writing EEPROM data. Here’s how it performs for mileage correction on 35160WT and 35128WT chips:
How It Works
Standard Setup: The VVDI PROG, in its standard configuration, doesn’t require additional boards for basic operations. Using its software, you select the “EEPROM” special function and choose the chip type (e.g., 35080 or 35160). The tool can read the EEPROM content, including the chip’s ID, and transfer this data to a custom VVDI 35160 chip.
Mileage Correction: To adjust mileage, you can either: Replace the original EEPROM with VVDI’s custom chip (priced around £10), which allows erasing the first two lines where mileage data is stored.
Attempt to modify the existing chip. However, with standard accessories (e.g., the basic adapter board), the VVDI PROG often fails to erase or write to the original 35160WT chip, even when soldered.
Additional Adapters: VVDI offers a specialized adapter for the 35160WT, which may improve performance but significantly increases costs. This adapter has unique circuitry, unlike generic adapters, but it is discontinued.
Pros
Extensive chip support, including CAS and FRM modules.
Software is freely downloadable, allowing users to explore its features without purchasing the device.
High flexibility for reading EEPROM dumps.
Cons
Requires additional software for advanced operations like mileage correction or CAS module unlocking.
Standard accessories are insufficient for reliable 35160WT programming.
Verdict
The VVDI PROG is a powerful tool for technicians comfortable with additional software and hardware investments. However, its inability to reliably modify original 35160WT chips without costly add-ons is a drawback.
CGPRO: User-Friendly but Falls Short
The CGPRO is marketed as a more user-friendly alternative, with integrated features that simplify mileage correction. However, its performance on 35160WT and 35128WT chips was disappointing.
How It Works
Software Advantage: The CGPRO’s software is more intuitive, allowing direct mileage adjustments after reading the chip. It supports multiple reading modes and comes with a variety of adapters for different chips.
Mileage Correction: For the 35160WT, the CGPRO failed to erase the first two lines of data, where mileage is stored in “Mode 1” chips. This was surprising, as my older R270 succeeded in this task. For the 35128WT, commonly found in BMW G-series vehicles, the CGPRO also struggled. Claims of success (e.g., by a YouTuber) often involve chips in “Mode 2” or “Mode 3,” where mileage data is stored differently, not in the first two lines.
Unique Features: The CGPRO supports CAS/FRM cloning and key programming, and its software requires an internet connection to verify a valid license.
Pros
User-friendly software with built-in mileage correction functions.
Wide range of adapters included.
Slightly cheaper than VVDI PROG (~$435 with all accessories).
Cons
Failed to erase mileage data on 35160WT and 35128WT chips in Mode 1.
Limited reliability, with the manufacturer claiming an 80% success rate for certain chips.
Internet dependency for software may be inconvenient.
Verdict
The CGPRO is easier to use than the VVDI PROG, but its inability to reliably handle 35160WT and 35128WT chips makes it less dependable for BMW mileage correction.
| Feature | VVDI PROG | CGPRO |
|---|
| Price | ~$429 (before add-ons) | ~$435 (all-in) |
| Software | Extensive read/write functions; needs external software to modify data. | More optimized; built-in mileage calculation and modification. |
| Ease of Use | More complex, requires additional knowledge and tools. | More straightforward and integrated. |
| 35160WT Performance | Reliable only with proprietary replacement chips (extra cost). | Failed in testing; inconsistent. |
| 35128WT Performance | Requires external software and method (e.g., emulator). | Only works on Modes 2 & 3; impossible on Mode 1. |
| Best For | Users who need a versatile dump reader and are willing to invest in the ecosystem. | Users seeking an all-in-one tool for supported chips, understanding its hit-and-miss nature. |
Key Insights on 35160WT and 35128WT Chips
Both tools struggle with the 35160WT and 35128WT due to their security features. For 35160WT chips in Mode 1, mileage data in the first two lines is nearly impossible to erase or reduce, though increasing mileage is feasible. For 35128WT chips, particularly in BMW G-series vehicles, success is limited to chips in Mode 2 or Mode 3, where mileage data is stored elsewhere. A common workaround is using an emulator chip to bypass these limitations, but this adds cost and complexity.
Recommendation
VVDI PROG: ~$429 (additional adapters or chips increase costs).
CGPRO: ~$435 (includes more accessories).
Alternative: The Yanhua ACDP2 is a more expensive but comprehensive tool that we’ve found to be more reliable for BMW mileage correction and other tasks.
For budget-conscious technicians, the CGPRO is easier to use but less reliable for 35160WT and 35128WT chips. The VVDI PROG offers greater flexibility but requires additional investments. Neither tool is a complete solution, and success depends on the chip’s mode and your willingness to invest in accessories or emulator chips.
Final Thoughts
Both the VVDI PROG and CGPRO have their strengths, but neither fully delivers on the promise of seamless mileage correction for BMW’s 35160WT and 35128WT chips. The VVDI PROG is better for those needing versatility and willing to navigate additional software and hardware, while the CGPRO suits users prioritizing ease of use. However, for consistent results, I recommend exploring the ACDP2 or sticking with proven older tools like the R270 for specific tasks. Always verify chip compatibility and consider the total cost of ownership before investing.
