Best Autel Scanners 2023 [Comparison Chart & Review]

Are you confused by so many options of Autel scanners available and unsure which one best suits your needs? 

Fear not, as this review is here to help solve your problem. 

Let’s keep scrolling to find out which Autel scanner is worth your investment!

Table of contents:

• Best Autel Scan Tools 2023: Overview Table
• Autel Scanner Series: Product lines
• Autel Scanners Comparison Chart (+ FREE PDF Download)
  1. Autel MaxiSys vs. MaxiM vs. Maxicom vs. Maxicheck
  2. Best Autel Scanners for Professionals
• 5 Best Autel Scan Tools: Reviews

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Best Autel Scan Tools 2023: Overview Table

Autel offers a wide range of quality products, making it difficult to choose just 3-5 that meet all needs. However, I have selected the best options that cater to various budgets, diagnostic levels, and scanner types. Simply use the filter to find your most suitable one.

Products	Budget	Fit for	Type
Autel AL319	Under $50	Home mechanics	Code reader	Check Price
Autel MS309	Under $50	Home mechanics	Code reader	Check Price
Autel AL619	$50 – $100	Home mechanics	4-system scan tool	Check Price
Autel AP200	$50 – $100	Home mechanics/ DIYers	Full system scan tool	Check Price
Autel ML629	$100 – $300	Home mechanics	4-system scan tool	Check Price
Autel MD306	$100 – $300	Home mechanics/ DIYers	Full system scan tool	Check Price
Autel MK808S	$300 – $500	DIYers	Bi-directional scanner	Check Price
Autel MX808S	$300 – $500	DIYers	Bi-directional scanner	Check Price
Autel MK808Z	$300 – $500	DIYers	Bi-directional scanner	Check Price
Autel MK808BT Pro	$500 – $1000	DIYers/ Professionals	Bi-directional scanner	Check Price
Autel MP808BT Pro	$500 – $1000	DIYers/ Professionals	Bi-directional scanner	Check Price
Autel MS906 Pro	$1000 – $2000	Professionals	Bi-directional scanner	Check Price
Autel MK908 II	$1000 – $2000	Professionals	Bi-directional scanner	Check Price
Autel IM508	$1000 – $2000	Locksmiths	Key programmer	Check Price
Autel MS908S PRO II	$2000 – $3000	Professionals	ECU Programmer	Check Price
Autel Elite II Pro	$2000 – $3000	Professionals	ECU Programmer	Check Price
Autel MS Ultra	Above $3000	Automotive shop	ECU Programmer	Check Price
Autel MC Ultra Lite	Above $3000	Automotive shop	ECU Programmer	Check Price
Autel IM608 Pro II	Above $3000	Locksmiths	Key programmer	Check Price

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Autel Scanner Series: Which Level Should I Pick?

Autel Product Lines:

1. MaxiScan – Cheap car code readers
2. AutoLink – Affordable OBD2 scanners
3. MaxiLink – Affordable OBD2 scanners
4. MaxiAP – Affordable wireless OBD2 auto scan tools
5. MaxiCheck – Affordable auto service tools
6. MaxiDiag – Affordable auto diagnostic tools
7. MaxiPRO – Excellent auto diagnostic reset tools
8. MaxiDas – Perfect automotive diagnostic scanner
9. MaxiCOM – Auto service tools for pros
10. MaxiSys – The high-end art of automotive diagnostics
11. MaxiIM – professional diagnostic tools with IMMO key programming

Type 1. Autel MaxiScan – Cheap car code readers

Autel scanners in this range are very affordable, often costing less than $100. They can help you diagnose and define vehicle Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) and view freeze frame data, check I/M readiness as well as monitoring status. If you have American, Asian, and European vehicle brands and models 1996 or newer, then these code readers can help you.

In summary, you can use them to do the following:

• Detecting what causes Check Engine Light to come on and reset it back.
• Retrieving generic codes (P0, P2, P3, and U0), pending codes, and manufacturer-specific codes (P1, P3, and U1) and clearing them.
• Retrieving VIN, CALID, and CVN.
• Viewing freeze frame data and display DTCs and I/M emissions.

Who are the marketed users?

The typical products in this line include Autel MS300 and Autel MS309. These are mainly recommended to car owners for home garages. If you are just starting in auto diagnostics, then Autel MaxiScan tools are the best for you.

Read more: Autel MS309 Vs. Autel MS300 Vs. Launch Creader V+: Don’t go for it if you’re not a newbie

Type 2. Autel AutoLink – Affordable OBD2 scanners

Autel AutoLink product series consists of OBDII auto scanners that support 1996 and newer vehicles with OBD2 or CAN port. With them, you can do the following:

• Read I/M readiness and check readiness status
• Retrieves and clear generic codes (P0, P2, P3, and U0), pending codes, and manufacturer-specific (P1, P3, and U1) codes.
• Diagnose the cause of MIL, clear the code, and reset it.
• Check DTCs and view freeze frame data
• Reads live PCM data stream
• Retrieves VIN, CIN, and CVN
• Other products in this series, such as AutoLink AL619, can diagnoses ABS/SRS systems

Who are the marketed users?

The products in this series are available for below $100 but offer just enough functionalities that a car owner or beginner DIYer can find helpful. You can check AutoLink AL319, AutoLink AL519, or AutoLink AL619, depending on what you have on the budget.

Read more: Autel AL519: Full OBDll Scan Tool with Mode 6 Review

Type 3. Autel MaxiLink – Affordable OBD2 scanners

Autel MaxiLink is a series of OBD II/EOBD auto scanners that supports all the 10 OBD2 modes. They support 1996 or newer American, Asian, and European cars with OBD2 and CAN protocols, including the SAE-J1979 protocol. With them, you can do the following:

• Check State Emission readiness status and device cycle verification
• Determine the cause of MIL and reset it
• View freeze frame data
• Read live PCM data stream
• Graph data
• Read, store, and playback live sensor data
• Print data on Windows PCs
• MaxiLink ML629 can read and reset DTCs for ABS, SRS, Engine, and Transmission.

Who are the marketed users?

This series of products has very affordable and powerful auto scanners ideal for auto mechanics and car owners. We have Autel ML629, Autel ML619, Autel ML529 that you can consider.

Read more: Autel MaxiLink ML619: ABS & SRS scan tool (upgraded AL619) review

Type 4. Autel MaxiAP – Affordable wireless OBD2 auto scan tools

This series consists of a wireless vehicle scanner. These products have either an Android or iOS operating system and come with Bluetooth (BT) OBDII connector and a MaxiAP200 app. These scanners can help you scan and quickly diagnose problems with almost all American, European, and Asian car brands and models. Their functions include:

• Full OBD2 functions
• 19 specific functions, including Oil Reset, EPB, BMS, ABS, SAS, DPF, TPMS, IMMO, among others
• Auto VIN automatic identification
• Sharing and printing vehicle diagnostic and repair reports
• Keep records of all vehicles previously tested

Who are the marketed users?

I strongly recommend Autel AP200, Autel AP200C, and Autel AP200M to car owners and DIY auto mechanics.

Read more: Autel AP200C vs. Autel AP200: Never buy it before reading this detailed comparison and review

Type 5. Autel MaxiCheck – Affordable auto service tools

Autel MaxiCheck is a series of auto scan and diagnostic tools used for OBD2 and specialized systems scan and diagnostics. The devices are equipped with a crystal clear TFT color screen to display the data read from vehicle systems. With them, you can be confident to do the following:

• Full OBD2/EOBD functions
• Open and close EBCs
• Read and reset codes for EPB/SBC
• Turn off ECU, Bake, and Oil Service lights
• Monitor the performance of EPB/SBC Caliper
• Rese SAS and service intervals
• Monitor ABS and Diesel Particulate Filter
• Read, record, and playback OBD2 live data
• Register and reset the battery
• Specialized system functions such as EPB, Oil Service, ABS, SRS, BMS, DPF.
• Diagnoses EPB/SBC Caliper, handle IMMO

Who are the marketed users?

Products in this series are marketed for auto technicians and experienced car owners who handle specialized system diagnoses. The recommended products we have here are the Autel MX808TS, Autel MX808, and Autel MaxiCheck Pro.

Read more: Autel MX808: All System and Service Car Diagnostic Tool Review

Type 6. Autel MaxiDiag – Affordable auto diagnostic tools

Autel MaxiDiag is a series of auto-scan and diagnostic tools designed to take your experience to a new level. They include Autel MD808 Pro, Autel MD806, and Autel MD806 Pro. With them, you can perform all the OBD2 functions and the following specialized system functions:

• Oil service reset
• Battery registration and reset
• Parking brake pad relearn after replacement
• Steering angle sensor relearn
• Turning off ECU brake light
• Diesel particulate filter regeneration functions
• Control and test Transmission, ABS, SRS, EPB, and DPF systems
• Monitor O2 and I/M readiness
• 10 OBD2 functions

Read more: Autel MD806 Vs. MD808 Pro Vs. MD802: Which a home mechanic shouldn’t buy?

Who are the marketed users?

Autel MaxiDiag diagnostic tools are ideal for home mechanics and experienced DIYers.

Type 7. Autel MaxiPRO – Excellent auto diagnostic reset tools

Autel MaxiPRO product series are Android-based auto scan and diagnostic tools designed by Autel Tech to help car owners and auto technicians effectively diagnose systems. Typical products in this list include the following:

Autel MaxiPRO product series have the following capabilities:

• OE-level system coverage for all electronic systems
• Complete tool for live data viewing, active testing, ECU information retrieval, etc.
• Automatic VIN identification
• TPMS diagnostics with DTC description
• TPMS health check
• Activate TPMS sensors
• OBD relearn coverage

Who are the marketed users?

The superior special functions of these tools make them ideal for professional auto mechanics and advanced DIYers.

Read more: Autel MP808TS: All-system diagnostic tool with TPMS service functions review

Type 8. Autel MaxiDas – Perfect automotive diagnostic scanner

Autel MaxiDas consists of auto scan and diagnostic tools powered by the Android Operating system that offers maximum convenience and high efficiency when diagnosing vehicles. They are equipped with 7-inch LCD screens for displaying live data and graphing information. These tools perform advanced system diagnostics and reset services, including the following:

• Automatic VIN identification
• OE-level system diagnostics for all electronic systems
• View live data, get ECU information, perform an active test, among other functions
• Free access to cloud-based vehicle diagnostic and repair tips
• Manage all operations, including keeping data files, customer information, and serviced vehicle records.

Who are the marketed users?

Autel MaxiDas are designed for auto technicians and advanced DIYers. DS808K is one of such tools you can add to your toolbox.

Read more: Autel MaxiDas DS808K: Professional automotive diagnostic scanner review

Type 9. Autel MaxiCOM – Auto service tools for pros

Autel MaxiCOM features auto scanners and vehicle diagnostic tools designed to help you perform a range of functions. With this product series, you can perform all OBD2 functions and the following advanced functions:

• Complete capabilities for actuation tests, adaptations, codes, live data, and ECU coding
• Live data display as graphs, texts, analogue, and digital for easy viewing and analysis
• Capable of recording and playing back data results with one touch.
• Cloud-based data management system for customers, vehicles, scanner data, and technician notes.
• Wi-Fi technology for printing recorded data

Who are the marketed users?

Autel MaxiCOM consists of products such as Autel MK908P, Autel MK906BT, and Autel MK808. These tools are recommended to professional auto technicians and experienced car owners for home garages.

Read more: Autel MaxiCOM MK808: Full-System OBD2 Scan Tool Review

Type 10. Autel MaxiSys – The high-end art of automotive diagnostics

Autel MaxiSys is a series of wireless auto diagnostic tools powered by Android. Their tablet design, widescreen, and advanced functions help maximize the technician’s intelligence.

This product line includes the following.

If you want to revolutionize auto diagnostics, you can do so with any product in this line. Some of the functions are listed below.

• Exceptional OE-Level functionality
• Advanced ECU coding and programming
• Live data viewing and graphing
• Active testing
• ECU information, adaptation, matching, etc.
• Comprehensive OBDII diagnostics
• Interactive data logging sessions with Autel tech support
• Step-by-step repair guidance
• Management of data files, customer information, and vehicle records.

Who are the marketed users?

These products are recommended for auto technicians who want advanced support when diagnosing vehicle systems. Autel MaxiSys Ultra has step-by-step repair guidance that helps solve the identified problem.

Read more: Launch X431 Torque Vs. X431 V PRO Vs. AUTEL MS906BT: Which are professional mechanics using?

Type 11. Autel MaxiIM – professional diagnostic tools with IMMO key programming

Autel MaxilM contains easy-to-use IMMO auto tools. These tools are equipped with service functions for immobilizer systems and special functions. The recommended products in the market include Autel IM508 and Autel IM608.

These products have the following capabilities:

• All auto system diagnostics and advanced maintenance services
• Guided and automated key learning
• Advanced key learning
• Read PIN/CS for all lost keys and generate keys
• IMMO ECU read and write and refresh and write
• Read and write transponder
• Read and write EEPROM/MCU
• OE-level diagnostics for a wide range of cars
• Advanced maintenance services such as Oil reset, BMS, EPB, DPF, SAS, and TPMS

Who are the marketed users?

Autel MaxiIM is a perfect solution for car shops and professional technicians who need a reliable IMMO and auto service tool.

Read more: Autel IM508: Must-have key programmer & scan tool review

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Autel Scanners Comparison Chart:

I will compare the most popular scan tools from different product lines to help you understand their differences easily. This will help you choose the most suitable tool for yourself.

Autel MaxiSys vs. MaxiM vs. Maxicom vs. Maxicheck: Popular Products Comparison Chart

[For mobile users: Rotate your phone and swipe left for full table]

	MaxiSys MS906TS Check Price	MaxiIM IM508 Check Price	MaxiCOM MK808S Check Price	MaxiCheck MX808S Check Price
	Under $1500	Under $1500	Under $500	Under $500
DIAGNOSTICS
All-system diagnosis	✅	✅	✅	✅
OE-level diagnosis	✅	✅	✅	✅
Live data	✅	✅	✅	✅
Diagnosis report	✅	✅	✅	✅
Topology Map	–	–	–	–
SERVICE FUNCTIONS
Number of functions	36+	28+	28+	28+
Reset functions	✅	✅	✅	✅
ABS Bleeding	✅	✅	✅	✅
SAS Calibration	✅	✅	✅	✅
DPF Regen	✅	✅	✅	✅
Battery Registration	✅	✅	✅	✅
TPMS Relearn	✅	–	–	–
TPMS Programming	✅	–	–	–
ADVANCED FUNCTIONS
Full Active Tests	✅	✅	✅	✅
Key Programming	✅	✅	✅	✅
ECU Coding	✅	✅	–	–
VAG Guide	✅	–	–	–
Advanced IMMO functions	–	✅	–	–
VEHICLE COVERAGE
Vehicle brands	All brands	All brands	All brands	All brands
Trucks	Light trucks	Light trucks	Light trucks	Light trucks
Diesel vehicles	✅	✅	✅	✅
FCA AutoAuth	✅	✅	✅	✅
CAN FD (+ adapter)	✅	–	✅	✅
HARDWARE/ DESIGN
Connection type	Bluetooth	Wired	Wired	Wired
Android OS	11.0	4.4.4	11.0	11.0
Processor	6-Core	1.6 GHz	2.4 & 5GHZ	2.4 & 5GHZ
Storage	2GB+64GB	32GB	4GB+64GB	4GB+64GB
Battery	10,000mAh	5000mAh	5000mAh	5000mAh
Screen size	8″	7″	7″	7″
AFTER- SALES SERVICE
Free update	1 year	2 years	1 year	1 year
Update fee (per year)	$124.5	$350	$124.5	$124.5
Warranty	1 year	1 year	1 year	1 year
Work w/o updates	✅	✅	✅	✅
	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price

Click here to DOWNLOAD the FULL comparison chart in PDF (FREE)

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Best Autel Scanners for Professionals: Popular Products Comparison Chart

[For mobile users: Rotate your phone and swipe left for full table]

	MaxiSys Ultra Check Price	MaxiCOM Ultra Lite Check Price	MaxiIM IM608 PRO Check Price	MaxiSys Elite II Pro Check Price
	Under $4500	Under $4000	Under $4000	Under $3000
DIAGNOSTICS
All-system diagnosis	✅	✅	✅	✅
OE-level diagnosis	✅	✅	✅	✅
Live data	✅	✅	✅	✅
Diagnosis report	✅	✅	✅	✅
Topology Map	✅	✅	–	✅
SERVICE FUNCTIONS
Number of functions	40+	40+	38+	38+
Reset functions	✅	✅	✅	✅
Relearn functions	✅	✅	✅	✅
Calibration functions	✅	✅	✅	✅
ABS Bleeding	✅	✅	✅	✅
DPF Regen	✅	✅	✅	✅
Battery Registration	✅	✅	✅	✅
ADVANCED FUNCTIONS
Full Active Tests	✅	✅	✅	✅
Key Programming	✅	✅	✅	✅
ECU Coding	✅	✅	✅	✅
ECU Programming	✅	✅	–	✅
VAG Guide	–	–	–	✅
Advanced IMMO functions	–	–	✅	–
VEHICLE COVERAGE
Vehicle brands	All brands	All brands	All brands	All brands
Trucks	Light trucks	Light trucks	Light trucks	Light trucks
Diesel vehicles	✅	✅	✅	✅
FCA AutoAuth	✅	✅	✅	✅
DoIP & CANFD vehicles	✅	✅	CANFD only	✅
HARDWARE/ DESIGN
Android OS	7.0	7.0	4.4.2	10.0
Processor	8-Core	8-Core	6-Core	6-Core
Storage	4GB RAM & 256GB	4GB RAM & 256GB	64GB	4GB RAM & 128GB
Battery	18000mAh	18000mAh	15000mAh	11000mAh
Screen size	12.9″	12.9″	10″	9.7″
Wireless connection	✅	✅	✅	✅
Docking station	✅	✅	–	✅
Split screen	✅	✅	–	–
AFTER-SALES SERVICE
Free update	1 year	2 years	2 years	2 years
Update fee (per year)	$1695	$1295	$1599	$895
Warranty	1 year	1 year	1 year	1 year
Work w/o updates	✅	✅	✅	✅
	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price

Click here to DOWNLOAD the FULL comparison chart in PDF (FREE)

5 Best Autel Scanners: Detailed Reviews

1. Autel MK808S: Editor’s Pick
2. Autel AL319: Best cheap
3. Autel AP200: Best Bluetooth
4. Autel MaxiSys Ultra: Best for automotive shop
5. Autel ML629: Best OBD2

#1. Autel MK808S – Best Bi-directional Scan Tool Under $500

What Makes Me Like Autel MK808S?

1. Pull generic and manufacturer-specific codes from any system

Autel MK808S allows me to scan any systems on cars as long as they are supported. 

Not only can it pull generic codes, but it also reads manufacturer-specific codes. Some codes I found on different cars with this scanner are P1420, P1101, P1516,  B1318, B1650, B1442, etc.

In general, it could read most of the systems on my customers’ cars.

2. Perform car maintenance with 28+ service functions and bi-directional control

Autel MK808S is great for daily car maintenance and repairs because it features 28+ advanced service functions. 

I could perform major reset functions like oil reset, SAS reset, EPB reset, etc., to turn off the dashboard lights. 

Besides, I can assure you that it is worth every penny as it also supports bi-directional control. You’ll pinpoint any defective parts or do maintenance services by commanding the components to operate as you want.

Once, I controlled the brake to perform ABS bleeding, which worked like a charm.

3. Vivid and fast live data

The live data, especially the graphed one, can be used to pinpoint trouble areas better. 

It’s easy to watch its graph fluctuate thanks to the clear display. 

Also, the refresh rate is quite incredible because of the upgraded hardware. And I didn’t see any glitches while using the live data.

In addition, there’s an option to print it out for later diagnosis.

What I Dislike?

1. Unfriendly menu for beginners

Autel MK808S’s menu and design are not optimized in the right category. Finding functions through the menu can be difficult if you didn’t use Autel scanners before.

Compared to the less capable scanners, several functions are not as intuitive.

2. No manual included

There was no manual attached to the scanner when I first unboxed it. 

I had to print the manual through a link after contacting Autel support.

From my perspective, after reading through the instructions, you will find it easy to operate the scanner. 

Vehicle Coverage

Before purchasing the Autel MK808S, always check if it is compatible with your car. You can do so by checking the vehicle coverage on the Autel website or contacting them via [email protected].

Key Takeaway

If you are looking for a bi-directional scan tool under $500, I highly recommend the Autel MK808S. 

With its fast and accurate diagnostics, you can quickly identify any car’s issues and get it back on the road in no time.

Today’s best Autel MK808S prices:

Read more: Autel MK808S Review: Better Version Of Autel MK808 With Stronger Hardware

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#2. Autel AL319 – Cheapest Code Reader for Beginners

What Makes Me Like Autel AL319?

1. Save money by clearing trouble codes yourself

Autel AL319 allows you to read and clear engine and transmission codes only. Although it is unable to scan ABS and SRS systems, it’s worth the price of $40.

After checking on my customers’ cars, I realized that it was quick at scanning and giving the description of the codes. You can search for it online and fix the car yourself.

What’s more?

I quickly identified whether the trouble code was serious thanks to Autel AL319‘s color LED indicating light. No more fear and uncertainty of not knowing what was wrong with your car.

2. Identify the exact cause of the trouble code with live data 

Autel AL319 can read a lot of live data, which is amazing. It’s very useful when combined with your own research to identify and fix problems quickly. 

For example, I could check the voltage of a particular O2 sensor in real-time using the live data feature. 

This helped me figure out if the output from the catalytic converter is stable (which is good) or if it’s changing (which is bad).

3. Help you pass the smog check 

It’s really frustrating to go for a smog check and find out that the car’s DTCs are not ready for the test. This unit can tell you when they are ready, which is helpful.

No more wasting hundreds of dollars just to know this at a repair shop!

What I Dislike?

1. Short cable

The cord is too short (~2.5ft) to be put on the car console. As a result, it becomes challenging to use the scanner comfortably while performing readiness tests.

2. Cover vehicles up to 2017 only

The fact that the device is only for 2017 models and below is a major disadvantage. 

This limitation makes it difficult to use the scanner on your latest cars. But if you mainly work on older cars, Autel AL319 is your best bet.

Vehicle coverage

Make sure to visit Autel’s vehicle coverage page or contact their support team at [email protected] before purchasing Autel AL319. 

Key Takeaway

If you’re a car owner looking to identify basic issues with your vehicle, Autel AL319 is an excellent tool I highly recommend. 

It’s easy to use, thanks to its compact size and clear display, making it a great choice for beginners.

Today’s best Autel AL319 prices:

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#3. Autel AP200 – Best Bluetooth Scanner for Home Mechanics

What Makes Me Like Autel AP200?

1. Scan your car with full-system diagnostics

With Autel AP200, I can look at every single module and pull up fault codes from all car systems like engine, transmission, ABS, SRS, TPMS, SAS, etc. 

The result was beyond my expectations! 

On many cars I tested, Autel AP200 can pull codes from

• 2017 Honda Civic 
• 2016 Toyota Tundra 
• 2010 BMW F10 n63Tu, etc.

It also supports reading SRS codes on my customer’s Suzuki, which is not covered by other Bluetooth adapters. 

2. No need to visit dealers using 19 reset functions

Autel AP200 supports up to 19 advanced service functions, helping you perform any needed tasks to erase different codes.

Some of the functions I tried on my customer’s cars are TPMS, EPB reset, throttle adaption, ABS bleeding, SAS calibration, etc.  

Thanks to ABS bleeding, I removed the air stuck in the ABS unit of the brake system on a 2016 Dodge Charger & Honda Civic, and a BMW 428i. 

Additionally, I performed battery registration on cars like a 2013 Mini Countryman and a 2008 BMW 335i.

3. Analyze your car’s problems with responsive live data

Combining live data with the fault codes, you’ll discover the real culprit causing the dashboard lights to pop up. For instance, I identified the faulty wheel speed sensor to clear a 2007 Ford Edge’s ABS light.

Note that the refresh rate will be low if you want to see many parameters at the same time. 

What I Dislike?

1. Cannot cover 2019 and later vehicles

The database only goes up to 2018, even though it is 2023 now.

This limitation is a major drawback for me since I work with the latest vehicle models. 

I hope Autel improves this by updating newer models soon.

2. Pay more if you work on the additional car brands

The fee to activate advanced features for another brand is $22/year.

However, Autel AP200 can be used as a generic OBD2 reader on most car brands.

Vehicle coverage

If Autel AP200 can’t work on your cars, it’s useless. So, make sure to visit Autel’s vehicle coverage page or send Autel an email at [email protected] before buying.

Key Takeaway

Autel AP200 is perfect for DIYers and home mechanics if you use it for just one car make. 

Along with the full-system diagnostic, its 19 service functions will help you perform any needed task on your car.

Today’s best Autel AP200 prices:

Read more: Autel AP200 Review: Full-System OBD2 Bluetooth Adapter

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#4. Autel MaxiSys Ultra – Best High-end Scan Tool for Professionals

What Makes Me Like Autel Ultra?

1. Advanced 5-IN-1 VCMI worth $2000

5-IN-1 VCMI is one of the main reasons I bought Autel Ultra. The VCMI is integrated with many functions like: 

• VCI connection (Wi-Fi/BT/USB): Fast and stable
• Oscilloscope: Analyze complex faults
• Waveform generator: Simulate signal modes
• Multimeter: Test electrical parts
• CAN BUS check: Check communication status

Each purpose I used from the VCMI is worth $2,000 paid!

2. Multitasking with split screen

Thanks to Ultra’s solid hardware, I could open two functions at once! 

It has a split-screen mode that lets me look at live data and use scope functions at the same time.

This helps me see the difference between the graphed data and the oscilloscope. Also, I could watch how the live data change when performing some active tests.

Dramatically improve the efficiency at my shop!

3. Identify the code easily with topology map

With topology map, I can take a quick look at the whole car’s system. 

The number of trouble codes is marked out to determine how many total codes I have. With just one click, you’ll know the trouble codes’ definition and possible causes.

In addition, Autel Ultra allows you to zoom in and out of the topology map when needed.

4. Longer battery life and a larger screen than Autel MS919

Autel Ultra has a battery life of up to 8-10 hours, making me not worry about charging the device frequently. 

It has a 12.9-inch touchscreen, which is larger than the Autel MS919, its predecessor.

What I Dislike?

1. Too expensive for personal use

Autel Ultra’s price is relatively high, making it unsuitable for personal use.  

If you don’t need Ultra’s fancy features or only work on a few cars, buying Ultra is not a good idea. 

2. Only 1-year free update

After one year of using the tool, if you want to keep some online functions, you have to pay $1,500. 

It’s kind of expensive and you need to consider it. 

Vehicle coverage

Before buying Autel Ultra, check vehicle compatibility on Autel’s website or email their support team at [email protected] for assistance.

Key Takeaway

Autel MaxiSys Ultra is best suited for car mechanics or repair shop owners who need to perform advanced tasks and improve their operations.

If you don’t want a docking stand or a split screen, I suggest the Autel MS919, a cheaper version of Autel Ultra.

Today’s best Autel Ultra prices:

Read more: Autel Maxisys Ultra Review: A Professional Scan Tool That Can Do Anything

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#5. Autel ML629 – Best 4-system Scanner for Home Mechanics

What Makes Me Like Autel ML629?

1. Perform 4-system diagnostics

Autel ML629 allows quick access to the engine, transmission, ABS, and SRS systems and the ability to read & clear these codes. Furthermore, it can pull enhanced codes in the Powertrain system for three specific brands: Ford, GM, and Chrysler. 

This scanner also provides an explanation of the fault codes, making it easier to identify system problems quickly.

Although it can’t work on 2017+ vehicles, I tested this scanner on some 2017 and prior cars and it worked perfectly.

• 2005 GMC Yukon XL
• 2006 Chevy SSR
• 2007 Mazda 3
• 2011 F150
• 2016 Hyundai Veloster, etc.

Besides, it even showed codes that were not triggering the CEL. 

2. Confirm the faulty parts using live data

With this scanner, I could use the live data to view the real-time data of multiple sensors and components in both modes:

• number 
• graph 

But please note that you can only graph two PIDs at once and can’t switch what you’re graphing while in graphing mode.

I also like that I could play back the recorded data or print it out via PC. It’s quite convenient if you want to share it with your mechanic. 

3. Retrieve your car’s VIN

This AutoVIN function lets me know cars’ VIN, which is useful when checking for manufacturer recalls or vehicle history reports. 

For example:

• its previous owners
• accidents
• repairs

What I Dislike?

1. Complex update process

The instructions provided in the manual were not helpful, and it took me a while to figure out how to update the tool. 

To update Autel ML629, you need an external SD card reader and follow many steps.

2. Cannot work on vehicles from 2017 and later

Like the Autel AL319, I tried ML629 on some newer cars, and this scanner didn’t cover vehicles from 2017 and later. This can be a problem if you are looking to diagnose newer cars. 

Vehicle Coverage

Please keep in mind that you need to check if Autel ML629 is compatible with your car before buying. Visit Autel’s vehicle coverage page or contact the support team at [email protected] to confirm.

Key Takeaway

If you want to find out the reason behind the blinking dashboard lights like CEL, ABS, and SRS, Autel ML629 can help you! 

Although it doesn’t offer advanced functions, Autel ML629 can provide the necessary features to perform tasks on your cars.

So for a home mechanic, it’s overkill; for an ASE Mech, it’s underkill!

Today’s best Autel ML629 prices:

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Conclusion

Thank you for scrolling down to the end of my best Autel scanners review!

Out of the five Autel scanners above, here are my top 3:

• Best code reader for beginners: Autel AL319
• Best scanner for DIYers owning one car makes: Autel AP200
• Best bi-directional scan tool for professionals: Autel MK808S

So, tell me, which scanner is suitable for your needs?

Or, if you still need clarification, I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments section below.