Neither of our cars was showing a trouble code, so I don't know how the MaxiScan works to actually retrieve a code, but it functioned exactly as advertised on my 2003 Saab 9-3 Sedan, retrieving all the information claimed. The manual instructions were correct, though I was confused a bit at first because I misread them.
The only real disappointment for me is the code database. The one on the CD doesn't cover Saab, and I could not get the one on the web site to open at all (404 errors.) The manual does cover all the generic codes, and if I really needed to find a manufacturer code, I probably could somewhere.
Don't believe the part about "detachable cable" in the Amazon Product Description - the cable is NOT detachable.
Monday, November 30, 2009
Autel MaxiDiag US703 Great bang for the buck. Easy to use and reads ABS codes
The scanner powers up quickly and overall seems a bit faster than the Actron. It's easy to use; as a guy I've yet to open any kind of manual for the Autel, yet was able to read by my check engine and ABS codes that are popping up on my vehicle. In playing with the Actron the other day I pulled up the screen to read all live data at once and scrolling down was very, very slow and the tool would lag when it was asked to display the next page of data. The Autel 703 scrolled through all the live data without any lag. I haven't exported any data to a PC yet so I can't tell you how well that works. On screen descriptions were provided for both PCM codes and ABS codes.
I have an Actron 9185, which is the same as the 9190 without all the OBD 1 connectors for pre-1996 vehicles. The Actron is a great tool, but I needed to read ABS codes and the Autel was about $50 more than the Actron ABS reader only, and the Autel 703 reads ABS, Airbag, and Tranny codes, so for the extra few bucks I figured it's worth a try, and I can always sell the Actron. I paid about $50 more for the Actron 9185 than I paid for the Autel 703.
The tool is new and there don't appear to be any updates on the manufacturers site. I do expect Actron to have more frequent updates based on other online reviews. The Autel 703 DOES NOT come with the connectors to connect to pre-1996 vehicles though the software supports them. I have not seen the cables for sale anywhere.
As a hard core DIY mechanic that likes to troubleshoot and fix almost everything with my vehicles, I would recommend the Autel 703 because of the number of systems it reads, and at a lower price point than other products.
I have an Actron 9185, which is the same as the 9190 without all the OBD 1 connectors for pre-1996 vehicles. The Actron is a great tool, but I needed to read ABS codes and the Autel was about $50 more than the Actron ABS reader only, and the Autel 703 reads ABS, Airbag, and Tranny codes, so for the extra few bucks I figured it's worth a try, and I can always sell the Actron. I paid about $50 more for the Actron 9185 than I paid for the Autel 703.
The tool is new and there don't appear to be any updates on the manufacturers site. I do expect Actron to have more frequent updates based on other online reviews. The Autel 703 DOES NOT come with the connectors to connect to pre-1996 vehicles though the software supports them. I have not seen the cables for sale anywhere.
As a hard core DIY mechanic that likes to troubleshoot and fix almost everything with my vehicles, I would recommend the Autel 703 because of the number of systems it reads, and at a lower price point than other products.
Sunday, November 29, 2009
Autel MaxiScan MS300 I really can't say
I really can't say for certain if this item is good or not. I believe I had a false positive warning light. This product did shut the warning light off though. It seemed to have performed the proper scans but there were no codes at the end, and the light shut off, so I assumed that it was a false positive warning. It most likely would have cost me more money for an automotive technician to shut the light off, and possibly tell me something was wrong when there wasn't. It is a good tool to have though in the future if it happens again.
Autel MaxiDiag JP701 Auto scanner
These scanners are primarily for use on Aisan vehicles but do work on euro vehicles eg saab jaguar.The jp701 are very easy to use and are excellent value for money.To date I have not found any updates and contact with manufacturer is very dificult.
Saturday, November 28, 2009
Autel MaxiScan MS300 Works well, except on a Honda
I purchased this to check and correct problems with a 2005 Scion tC. The unit worked great and I was able to cross reference the code given with the one in the book that comes with the MaxiScan. Long story short, it worked great.
I am also able to get it to communicate with a 2010 Mazda without issues. I have also tried it on a 2008 Honda Civic but was not able to get this unit to communicate, even though I followed the same proceedure as with the other cars.
I am also able to get it to communicate with a 2010 Mazda without issues. I have also tried it on a 2008 Honda Civic but was not able to get this unit to communicate, even though I followed the same proceedure as with the other cars.
Autel MaxiDiag JP701 Reads Jap and Euor ABS, AT, Air Bags and Engine
OBD readers at chain and retail stores usually only read American auto's ABS; for the money, this unit provides alot of capabilities.
Friday, November 27, 2009
Autel MS300 CAN OBDII Code Reader
Works as advertised. I was looking for a basic and compact device to read and erase codes. The MS300 fulfills those requirements.
Autel MaxiTrip TP100 MaxiTrip beats ScanGauge in my book.
I must say I did quite a bit of research on this unit when it came out but the price had me stray away from it. Last week I happened to be looking at the scangaue and I happeend to see it for sale on Amazon so I figured ok lets give it a try.
I received it today, unpacked it and rushed out to hook it up to the car.
First and most striking part was how similar it was to the scangauge from look of the display to the placement and the font of the words.
Then it took me nearly seconds to set it up and see what it was capable of. Now people have complained about innacuracy but this is not the case with this unit. The one I received is V1.1 and it is exact with the readings on my odometer when it comes to miles or distance traveled.
Second important feature was the fact that the unit can check vital systems in my car (2001 Cadillac Catera) and report wtih OK, NC or NA... I believe they call it readiness test. I noticed also that it was also able to read my VIN Number.
Thirdly the unit seems to have features that lack on the scangauge. For example when you are in GAUGE Mode, with the press of the side buttons you can switch between 3 or 4 pages and each one can be customized with whatever gauges you want to view.
So for me at start up I care about engine temp, open/closed loops, ignition, RPMs and intake air temp. Then once moving I can swap to the next page which shows Speed, Average Fuel Consumption, DTE etc.
Further more there are many other options under trip and settings that appear to be easy to use and well though out form user stand point.
So my first impressions of the unit is that its cheaper then my ScanGauge, its better in many ways, and appears to function as designed.
Further testing and comparisons will be performed and another review will be posted.
I received it today, unpacked it and rushed out to hook it up to the car.
First and most striking part was how similar it was to the scangauge from look of the display to the placement and the font of the words.
Then it took me nearly seconds to set it up and see what it was capable of. Now people have complained about innacuracy but this is not the case with this unit. The one I received is V1.1 and it is exact with the readings on my odometer when it comes to miles or distance traveled.
Second important feature was the fact that the unit can check vital systems in my car (2001 Cadillac Catera) and report wtih OK, NC or NA... I believe they call it readiness test. I noticed also that it was also able to read my VIN Number.
Thirdly the unit seems to have features that lack on the scangauge. For example when you are in GAUGE Mode, with the press of the side buttons you can switch between 3 or 4 pages and each one can be customized with whatever gauges you want to view.
So for me at start up I care about engine temp, open/closed loops, ignition, RPMs and intake air temp. Then once moving I can swap to the next page which shows Speed, Average Fuel Consumption, DTE etc.
Further more there are many other options under trip and settings that appear to be easy to use and well though out form user stand point.
So my first impressions of the unit is that its cheaper then my ScanGauge, its better in many ways, and appears to function as designed.
Further testing and comparisons will be performed and another review will be posted.
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Autel MaxiScan MS300 Saved mucho bucks with this device
Mechanic wanted 200 smackers to turn off check light for Scion. Saw this in the Golden Box special for 30 bucks and decided what the heck!
Showed all I needed was a new gas cap and shut off the idiot light.
SWEEEEEEETTTTT! Great money saver. Be your own mechanic in these hard times.
Showed all I needed was a new gas cap and shut off the idiot light.
SWEEEEEEETTTTT! Great money saver. Be your own mechanic in these hard times.
Autel MaxiTrip TP100 Performs as expected
I wanted a cheaper alternative to the scangauge that seems to work really well for a lot of folks. I had reservations ordering this unit because it was not clear to me that the unit is in fact back lit and that it gives instant mpg readout. It has those features and it is also well built.
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Autel MaxiScan MS300 Good Product!!
the product helped me solve my problems with the car and is a good solution to the diagnosis. sorry for Bad Ingles!!!
Autel MaxiTrip TP100 Meets expectations.
I bought this unit in preparation for a 5th wheel RV trip. I have recently purchased a 2002 GMC 2500HD pick up powered with a Duramax LB7 Diesel motor. Not having a clue of the most efficient way to drive this truck to it's peak performance pulling five and a half tons through mountains I decided to get a quick and dirty performance monitor.
After 2500 miles Seattle to Wausau to Little Rock it performs as advertised The MaxiTrip gives instant MPG, torque, temperature and pressure data allowing me to efficiently control the throttle and gives me trouble codes (none so far).
All in all the low cost piece of technology gives me a larger comfort zone as I learn a new rig and put it through its paces on a familiar route. If it keeps giving the right stuff for the next 2500 miles it may earn another star.
After 2500 miles Seattle to Wausau to Little Rock it performs as advertised The MaxiTrip gives instant MPG, torque, temperature and pressure data allowing me to efficiently control the throttle and gives me trouble codes (none so far).
All in all the low cost piece of technology gives me a larger comfort zone as I learn a new rig and put it through its paces on a familiar route. If it keeps giving the right stuff for the next 2500 miles it may earn another star.
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Autel MaxiScan MS300 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.
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.
Autel MaxiTPMS TS301 GREAT TOOL,
THIS TOOL IS GREAT WORKS GREAT WITH ANY CAR WITH TPMS SAVES ME A LOT OF MONEY
Monday, November 23, 2009
Autel MaxiScan MS300 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.
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.
AutoLink CAN OBDII Code Reader Very happy!!!
It has worked on every car in which it has been connected. I work at a shop and have been using it at least once a day, for several months. Love it!!!
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Autel MaxiDiag US703 Great scanner
This scanner did well on abs and air bag functions. It cleared codes on both abs and air bag lights. It scanned obd2 live stream fine. The only thing that I noticed that it has to be set to metric instead of english to be accurate. The conversion isn't correct to english weights and measures. This isn't a deal breaker to me because of the abs and air bag functions. The obd1 function I haven't tried yet, because I haven't got the cables yet. Actron and autoxray cables should work on this scanner. This scanner is for more advanced mechanics because of the extra enhanced codes it gives, especially for abs and air bag. Haven't seen another scanner that can read and clear engine, transmission, air bag, and abs codes for this price, which means turning off those lights on the dash. I compared this scanner to a mac tools scanner and the autel scanner compared well for all that it does.
Autel MaxiScan MS409 Money well spent- er saved that is
Picked this code reader for it gives a brief narrative discription of what's wrong with which system- generalized information but good to know when you have no reference materials available to look up a code... The last time I needed to know what a code number was indicating was on a Dodge van when I was back deep in the NC mountains. Drove that van 400 miles home before I knew what the code indicated. That van blinks out code numbers.
Received this device yesterday. Read the code on a Lincoln/Ford product with the "service engine soon" light on last night, then, did some research on the Internet last night and looked at a DVD factory service manual I have for the vehicle... Picked up a $32.00 EGR pressure sensor at Auto Zone, installed it, cleared the code from the car's computer and now the vehicle is back in business running properly without the service engine soon light lit up.
Around here, would likely have spent significantly more for someone competent to fix the car for me than I spent on this code reader and the part. Can figure on $100 minimum at a dealership even with no overpriced parts... Am giving it five stars for it suits me just fine. It's sturdy/not cheap looking with a good nylon carry case and a USB cable for updates via the Internet. When I take that vehicle out of town next time, this device will likely be on board. May just keep it in the vehicle.
Harbor Freight tools sells an identical code reader for $100. (their regular, non sale price- saw it marked at $90 in a local HF store one day). So, the $80 I paid must be about right/reasonable for this unit. Folks that have a little know how under the hood would likely benifit from a code reader. They start around $40 for the cheaper models it looks like. Where I live, many repair shops will price gouge people that just don't know...
Received this device yesterday. Read the code on a Lincoln/Ford product with the "service engine soon" light on last night, then, did some research on the Internet last night and looked at a DVD factory service manual I have for the vehicle... Picked up a $32.00 EGR pressure sensor at Auto Zone, installed it, cleared the code from the car's computer and now the vehicle is back in business running properly without the service engine soon light lit up.
Around here, would likely have spent significantly more for someone competent to fix the car for me than I spent on this code reader and the part. Can figure on $100 minimum at a dealership even with no overpriced parts... Am giving it five stars for it suits me just fine. It's sturdy/not cheap looking with a good nylon carry case and a USB cable for updates via the Internet. When I take that vehicle out of town next time, this device will likely be on board. May just keep it in the vehicle.
Harbor Freight tools sells an identical code reader for $100. (their regular, non sale price- saw it marked at $90 in a local HF store one day). So, the $80 I paid must be about right/reasonable for this unit. Folks that have a little know how under the hood would likely benifit from a code reader. They start around $40 for the cheaper models it looks like. Where I live, many repair shops will price gouge people that just don't know...
Saturday, November 21, 2009
Autel MaxiDiag US703 Reviews
From a 22yr auto technician this is an Excellent product, does everything i need at a great price.
Autel MaxiScan MS409 Scan scan everywhere a scan cant you read the scan
Your driving down the road when you notice that bright orange or red light just lit up on the dash.
Now you start to wonder hmmm did I forget to tighten the gas cap or heck is the car even safe to drive, what do you do?
Well you can go to a dealer and let them tell you yeah you didn't tighten the cap and that will be $50.
Or
You get one of these babies and when the light comes on you pull off to a safe area and just plug it in. This model has not only the code number but what the code means in plain English a big plus no books to have look up stuff in its right there on the screen.
Also you can clear the code once your realize its the cap and save yourself that $50!
What if its something serious? Well now you know to call road side assistance and get that vehicle into a shop before some serious damage happens.
Another feature I like is it can be upgraded from the web and it also has the CAN protocol for the newer cars.
We had to turn around on a trip to Disney to get help when the light came on because we didn't know it was OK to drive. Turned out to be a bad spark plug wire and couple of wraps of electrical tape we were off again, and when we got home we could get the new wires.
The back lighting is nice for when its dark under the dash and the fact it will store the code for you comes in handy when you are inside and cant remember that code # again.
Vin numbers can be checked on certain model cars so you can see if the computer has been swapped out.
Now one thing I wish it would do is print, it has a USB cable to let you upgrade the software but how hard would it be to make it print the stored data?.
All in all its well worth the cost since you will make that money back in savings the first time you use it!
Now you start to wonder hmmm did I forget to tighten the gas cap or heck is the car even safe to drive, what do you do?
Well you can go to a dealer and let them tell you yeah you didn't tighten the cap and that will be $50.
Or
You get one of these babies and when the light comes on you pull off to a safe area and just plug it in. This model has not only the code number but what the code means in plain English a big plus no books to have look up stuff in its right there on the screen.
Also you can clear the code once your realize its the cap and save yourself that $50!
What if its something serious? Well now you know to call road side assistance and get that vehicle into a shop before some serious damage happens.
Another feature I like is it can be upgraded from the web and it also has the CAN protocol for the newer cars.
We had to turn around on a trip to Disney to get help when the light came on because we didn't know it was OK to drive. Turned out to be a bad spark plug wire and couple of wraps of electrical tape we were off again, and when we got home we could get the new wires.
The back lighting is nice for when its dark under the dash and the fact it will store the code for you comes in handy when you are inside and cant remember that code # again.
Vin numbers can be checked on certain model cars so you can see if the computer has been swapped out.
Now one thing I wish it would do is print, it has a USB cable to let you upgrade the software but how hard would it be to make it print the stored data?.
All in all its well worth the cost since you will make that money back in savings the first time you use it!
OBDII Pro Series Scan Tool AUL-AL510
Product Description
OBDII Pro Series Scan Tool The AutoLink Pro AL510® OBDII / EOBD Scanner, specially developed for the US market, supports all nine modes of OBDII functionality, displays on-screen graphing, and prints data on all OBDII compliant vehicles to enable technicians to accurately diagnose even the toughest problems. Sophisticated, yet easy-to-use, this professional grade scan tool is built to perform for todays demanding service needs. Works on all 1996 and later OBD-II compliant US, European and Asian vehicles Easily determines the cause of the Check Engine Light (MIL), utilizing all nine modes of OBD-II functionality Specialized continuous update screen for readiness monitors with an audible completion Memory/battery backup for off-vehicle data review and analysis Retrieves vehicle information (VIN, CIN and CVN) Supports CAN (Controller Area Network) and all other current OBD-II protocols Built-in OBD-II DTC lookup library Free professional software updates via the Internet Data printing via PC
Product Details
- Amazon Sales Rank: #25459 in Automotive
- Brand: AUTEL
- Model: AL510
Features
- Works on all 1996 and later OBD-II compliant US, European and Asian vehicles
- Easily determines the cause of the Check Engine Light ( MIL), utilizing all nine modes of OBD-II functionality
- Specialized continuous update screen for readiness monitors with an audible completion
- Displays DTC definitions on unit screen
- Views freeze frame data
Friday, November 20, 2009
Autel MaxiScan MS409 Value meets price
I've used this tool half a dozen times and found it to be quick and easy to use. Good value for the mmoney.
Autel.us
Product Description
The AutoLink Pro AL510® OBDII / EOBD Scanner, specially developed for the US market, supports all nine of the primary OBDII modes, displays on-screen graphing, and prints data on all OBDII compliant vehicles to enable technicians to accurately diagnose even the toughest problems. Sophisticated, yet easy-to-use, this ergonomic scan tool gives you world class power in the palm of your hand!
Product Details
- Amazon Sales Rank: #106505 in Automotive
- Brand: AutoLink
- Model: AL510
Features
- Works on all 1996 and later OBDII compliant US, European and Asian vehicles.
- Easily determines the cause of the Check Engine Light ( MIL).
- Turns off Check Engine Light (MIL), clears codes and resets monitors.
- Multilingual menu and DTC definitions - English, Spanish and French.
- Large easy-to-read backlit LCD screen.
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Autel MaxiScan MS509 Best Bang for the Buck
Autel MaxiScan MS509. A previous review was heavy on critisim for this unit. The problem the previous person had was that Toyota utilizes the J1962 OBDII connector on vehicles that ARE NOT OBDII compliant. Unfortunately you have to be a qualified mechanic who is in the game like I am to know this.
I use the MS509 in my workshop on all late model OBDII vehicles. The unit is fast uplinking to the PCM and just as quick checking for codes. Freeze Frame Data and Live Data are easily accessable and the little apprentice boy likes it because if he cannot understand the sensor code (i.e. IAC) he can push the ? mark button and it explains to him what he needs to know.
I have done one upload if updated software and it is pretty brainless to do.
Would recommend that you know a little bit about what your doing before to do any diagnostics on your own vehicle if you are a Do It Yourself handyman. Otherwise you could cause yourself grief and post reviews that are not a realistic evaluation.
Awesome Product for the Money.
I use the MS509 in my workshop on all late model OBDII vehicles. The unit is fast uplinking to the PCM and just as quick checking for codes. Freeze Frame Data and Live Data are easily accessable and the little apprentice boy likes it because if he cannot understand the sensor code (i.e. IAC) he can push the ? mark button and it explains to him what he needs to know.
I have done one upload if updated software and it is pretty brainless to do.
Would recommend that you know a little bit about what your doing before to do any diagnostics on your own vehicle if you are a Do It Yourself handyman. Otherwise you could cause yourself grief and post reviews that are not a realistic evaluation.
Awesome Product for the Money.
Autel Maxiscan
Product Description
This compact and professional reader has the same functions and benefits as large expensive diagnostic scanners. The MaxiScanTM MS310 OBDII/EOBD Code Reader provides the technician with easy and quick access to diagnostic trouble codes.
Product Details
- Amazon Sales Rank: #27506 in Automotive
- Brand: Autel.US
- Model: MS310
Features
- FREE internet software updates via USB Interface
- Retrieves generic (P0, P2, P3 and U0), manufacturer specific (P1, P3 and U1) codes and pending codes, and display DTC definitions on unit screen
- Works with all 1996 and later OBDII compliant US, European and Asian vehicles
- Turn off Check Engine Light (MIL), clears codes and resets monitors
- # Display complete live engine data steam and views freeze frame data
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