BSI reset

[deepfat]

I have a prob with the central locking and as I have no diagnostic kit (as yet) I thought I would try the (low cost) BSI reset first, the convoluted instructions start with disconnect the neg (-) terminal, how? The battery in my old 06 C3 was easy to get at whereas this one is cocooned in plastic, how do I access the neg terminal? and can it be done by disconnecting the easy access positive (+) terminal instead. Once I have overcome these initial problems and done the reset is there anyway of knowing if it's been successful or not i.e. do the dash lights flash or is there some other indication of success?.

Lastly I've been looking to get some diagnostic kit and frankly I'm confused, do I go for the (expensive) kit that promises to read every car known to man or the cheaper ones more dedicated to the Citroen systems. Being a pensioner the cheaper option appeals but again which one and from which supplier, I've read these are Chinese copies so it would really help if someone said I got an XYZ system from Joe Bloggs and it works well. I promise not to blame anyone and if your reluctant to stick your head above the parapet a PM would work just as well.

Thanks in advance Peter

[GiveMeABreak]

Hi Peter

The BSI reset procedure (BSI Reset / Battery Disconnect / Reconnect Procedure) I put together has to account for most of the vehicles types where the battery can be located in different places and for vehicles with and without hands free access and starting - so is a little long-winded as it has to factor in all these variants. However, yes on some vehicle types the negative terminal of the battery is inaccessible without essentially removing the battery, so in these cases it is acceptable to remove the positive terminal instead, but make sure it is well-shielded with a rag and not allowed to come into contact with anything. As the situation you describe affects mostly later vehicles (with everything becoming more compact in the engine bay) I will add this reference regarding the accessibility of the negative cable to the guide now.

As for diagnostics - this has to be a matter of choice. The Diagbox software requires the Lexia kit VCI hardware kit to operate and a laptop (dedicated ideally to diagnostics due to the messy installation). The hardware interfaces that are sold in retail outlets on the web are all cloned units of the original interface that costs thousands.

Availability of good quality units are becoming harder to source, so there are alternatives out there like the one you mention where you purchase the hardware unit and then pick a licence for the vehicle manufacturers you need, which keeps the cost down.

It also depends on the functionality you need. Have a chat to Jim at easydiagnostics and he will be able to advise you. There's also a discount for FCF members too - see this link should you decide to purchase from them (we are not affiliated).

Easydiagnostics Equipment Discount for FCF Members