Step-by-Step Guide: Installing BMW Scanner 1.4.0 Drivers on Windows 10 & 11
Your computer will boot into Windows normally, but will now allow unsigned driver installation until the next restart. Step 3: Install the Drivers via Device Manager
Many of these scanners require a small physical modification to work with certain models (like the E46 or E39). If you can only see a few modules (like DME or EWS) but others are red/missing, you likely need to solder pins 7 and 8 together
Many aftermarket BMW Scanner cables require you to open the OBD2 plastic shell and solder pin 7 and pin 8 together. Older BMWs split K-line diagnostics across these two pins. Without bridging them, the software cannot read the car's modules. 2. Windows Automatically Overwrites the Driver bmw scanner 140 drivers
What (e.g., Windows 10, Windows 11) are you using?
in an Administrator Command Prompt and restart to allow unsigned drivers. Manual Driver Selection Find the "BMW Scanner" or "USB Serial Port" in Device Manager Choose "Browse my computer for drivers" right arrow "Let me pick from a list". Point to the specific FTDI driver folder and select the Hardware Connection : The scanner typically requires the car's ignition to be ON
These newer drivers do not recognize or support the older, often cloned FTDI chips used in aftermarket BMW Scanner cables. Step-by-Step Guide: Installing BMW Scanner 1
Some software versions require the scanner to mimic a serial COM port.
Hold down the while clicking Restart in your Windows Start Menu.
| Chip | Driver | |------|--------| | | FTDI VCP driver (official) | | CH340 | CH340/CH341 USB-to-Serial driver | Older BMWs split K-line diagnostics across these two pins
For owners of older BMW and Mini E-series vehicles, the BMW Scanner 1.4.0 (also known as PA Soft 1.4.0) is one of the most versatile and affordable OBD2 diagnostic interfaces available. However, many users face significant challenges with its driver installation on modern Windows systems. This guide provides a complete reference to help you get the scanner working reliably with your vehicle.
John was thrilled with the results. He had saved himself a trip to the dealership and a potentially expensive repair bill. He was also impressed with the ease of use and the wealth of information provided by the BMW Scanner 140.
Modern Windows 10 and 11 operating systems require digitally signed 64-bit drivers. The software package included on the mini-CD with your scanner usually lacks these signatures, causing Windows to block installation.