Autel MaxiScan MS300 CAN OBD-II Code Reader

Product Description

The MaxiScan code reader supports all OBD2 protocols, including the newly released Controller Area Network (CAN) protocol. Though it is small, it is able to retrieve same information as large expensive scanners. This code reader reviews the emission readiness status of OBD monitors and determines the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) status as well as turns off check engine light. It comes with free CD software with over 7000 DTC definitions and is powered via detachable OBD2 cable.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #14 in Automotive
• Size: Small
• Color: Red
• Brand: Autel
• Model: MS300

Features

• Retrieves generic and manufacturer specific Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC), includes definitions lookup software on CD and displays DTC definitions on screen
• Features an easy-to-read backlit LCD screen, multilingual menu and DTC definitions and standard 16-pin OBD-II connector; no additional cables are needed
• Retrieves VIN (Vehicle Identification No) on 2002 and newer vehicles that support Mode 9; powered by cars electrical system, so no batteries required
• Supports the CAN (Controller Area Network) protols and all other current OBD-II protocols
• Works with all OBD-II compliant U.S., European and Asian vehicles (OBD-II is standard on all cars sold in U.S. post-1996)

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com Product Description
The MaxiScan MS300 CAN OBD-II Code Reader provides auto enthusiasts and do-it-yourselfers with an easy, portable and economic way to check Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) and their definitions for OBD-II compliant vehicles. OBD-II is the second generation of onboard diagnostics and has been a mandatory requirement for all vehicles sold in the US since 1996, both domestic and imports. The MS300 supports all current OBD-II protocols--communications between your car's components and systems--including the newly released Controller Area Network (CAN) protocol. The included CD containing 7,000 DTC definitions allows you to troubleshoot a wide variety of generic, manufacturer-specific and pending trouble codes, and drawing power from your car's own electrical system the unit does not require batteries or an AC adapter. Simply plug it in via its standard 16-pin OBD-II connector at the first sign of trouble and start diagnosing, regardless of your post-1996 car's make or model.

Complete Features:

• Works with all 1996 and later OBD-II compliant US, European and Asian vehicles
• Reads and clears generic and manufacturer specific Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) and turns off check engine light
• Supports multiple trouble code requests: generic codes, pending codes and manufacturer specific codes
• Supports CAN (Controller Area Network) and all other current OBD-II protocols
• Reviews the emission readiness status of OBD monitors
• Determines the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) status
• Retrieves VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) on 2002 and newer vehicles that support Mode 9
• Utilizes standard 16-pin OBD-II connector meaning no additional connectors or cables are necessary
• Includes CD software with over 7000 DTC definitions
• No batteries required: Unit is powered via detachable OBD-II cable
• Retrieves vehicle information (VIN, CIN and CVN)
• Display: Backlit LCD, 2-line, 8 characters
• Dimensions: length 113 mm/44", width 74 mm/29", height 21mm/083"
• Weight: 027Kg/050lb

Customer Reviews

Inexpensive & gets the job done
I purchased this because my car failed an inspection due to a DTC for the catalytic converter. Rather than dropping the +$200 the mechanic wanted, I bought this and was able to reset the codes. Then I drove around until the reader said that all the eleven OBD II Readiness Monitors (or I/M Monitors) defined by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) were ready. Viola - it passed inspection.

The reader does have all the bells and whistle such as telling the description of the DTC codes, but it does have the generic ones in the back of the manual & there is software on the CD which I didn't need but looks like it includes a list of manufactures DTC's in addition the generic.

The support site is: http://www.auteltech.com/supports.htm & there is download there for the software as well.

Does the job. Don't let the instruction manual fool you.
I thought I had a bad unit with LINK ERROR on two different cars. You will never see the MAXISCAN MS300 display on the LCD, as described in the manual. Here are the real steps to follow:

1. With the ignition off plug it in. I immediately saw CAN OBD2 on the LCD.
2. Turn the ignition switch to the ON position. This is the position just before you crank the starter. Do not start the vehicle.
3. Then press the ENTER button on the reader which starts the scan.
4. Use the SCROLL button on the reader to view the results.

This is a handy tool, but almost any auto parts store will do a free code scan for you (Auto Zone, O'Reilly, Champion...), so that might be a cheaper way to go if you don't expect to use it much. An auto repair shop can charge you $100 or more to do the same, depending on where you are in the country.

The manufacturers website http://www.auteltech.com/index.htm and manual appear to be done by a novice "Chinese to English" transalator, so can be cryptic as best and totally misleading at worst.

Note that just resetting the code will not let you pass inspection. The sensors have to return a ready/OK code for the emissions test. It takes driving several miles for the sensors to retest and get back to the ready/OK status.

Does the job
Good Reader... for the money
Does CAN
Reads generic and specific codes
2 line backlit display thats easy read
simple for novice users
Reads VINs
35 bucks
Clears your engine light
gives status of readiness monitors

And thats pretty much it..... Its basic and it works.

Just dont expect it to have any other features.