Autel MaxiScan MS300 Diagnostic Vehicles
My 2004 Nissan Sentra failed smog because of an error code related to the thermostat and "service engine light" was on. The technician wanted $85 to diagnose it and who knows how much to fix it. I imagine the entire job would set me back around $150 at least.
I googled the error code on the smog test print out and found out it was most most likely a thermostat issue. I also learned that I'd need an OBDII scanner to read and erase the error code. I bought a thermostat at the auto part shop for $14 and this scanner for $18 shipped (amazon prime). I googled instructions on how to replace the thermostat. Unscrewed the housing, popped in the new one, screwed it back on, drove the car around for 20 minutes (service engine light was still on) and then parked and turned it off. Then I followed the instructions, which was to attach the scanner to the OBDII connector under the steering wheel. It fired right up, then I turned the ignition on (but didn't start it) it read everything and said there were no errors. Then I used it to erase the existing error code. BAM, service engine light went off and stayed off. Because I erased the computer data to wipe out the service engine light, I had to drive the car around a bit and wait for the self-diagnostic tests to run and build up data. This took about 45 minutes of driving time over the course of 2 days. The scanner was able to tell me when the tests were ready so it could be taken to the mechanic to re-do the smog test. Car passes smog, and I saved at least $100 and peace of mind knowing that I didn't get ripped off by a shady mechanic.
I don't know what else the average do-it-yourselfer would need from an OBDII scanner, but this is all I will probably ever need. It worked perfectly and exactly how the instructions said. I'm not sure if they changed the instructions or if other reviewers were reading their manuals wrong, but the instructions I got said to do exactly what they all said, however they stated that the instructions were differet. Shrug. It's pretty easy. Just stick it in the car, wait for it to be ready and then turn the ignition on without starting it.
Overall, it's a fantastic device. Everyone who drives a new car should have one. Between this and google you can probably solve a lot of small but costly problems with your car. I think the mechanic was pretty pissed that I went and bought this and did it myself for less than $40 total
I was impressed with this compact unit that is very powerful. Does just what I need, troubleshoots codes, allows for reset and testing of system. You cannot beat the price of this unit! I bought it for a Gen 3 4Runner and am very happy with the purchase. The instructions were easy to follow. Based upon older reviews that said the directions suck, they must have rewritten or revised, because it was easy to understand step by step! Highly recommend this product for the basic need of resetting codes and getting the trouble codes, and basic test of system.
BalasHapus
BalasHapusI bought this to investigate the occasional engine light codes on our family's two cars ('99 BMW 323i and 2005 Toyota Corolla). Considering I've used it about a half dozen times so far, it's already paid for itself and then some. All of the problems so far have been simple and easy to fix myself- loose gas cap, dirty MAF sensor, bad spark plugs, etc. I would have paid thousands of dollars for a mechanic to diagnose and repair these problems if I didn't have this reader. I've also used this on my friends' 2004 Accord and '98 Protege, again saving them hundreds of dollars. This is the secret auto mechanics don't want you to know. The $100 they are charging you to "read" or "diagnose" your engine light literally involves 5 minutes of labor and an OBD reader that is fundamentally no different than this one. They would like to keep everyone in the dark and pay their exorbitant fees, but fortunately you don't have to be a victim. Even if you never own a single wrench, this is the best investment you can possibly make to maintain your vehicle and will save you hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars in labor charges alone.
BalasHapusMost of the features have been covered extensively in the ~180 reviews here, so I won't reiterate them here. I will say that despite only having two buttons, it's easy to navigate the menus once you play with it for a few minutes. This unit is powered by the OBD-II port itself, so you don't have to worry about batteries. It does allow you to reset your 'check engine' light. As far as the CD is concerned, I knew it would be a POS so I automatically threw it out. All you need is to write down the code(s) it generates, and then type them into Google and you will have you answer (and often the solution!). You can also go to a vehicle forum specific for your make (e.g. toyotanation.com) with your code(s) and ask what to next, people are generally very helpful on these forums. Even if it's something you can't fix yourself, at least you will have an idea what is going on with your car so your mechanic can't take advantage of you and overcharge you for parts/services you don't need. Lastly, it's important to understand that all these OBD-II readers will only read OBD-II codes as generated by your vehicle as required by law. If you are having a very technical issue, no generic OBD-II reader will read the manufacturer-specific codes that are generated separately from the OBD-II codes. To read these manufacturer-specific codes, you will need to go to your dealer or a certified mechanic with an appropriate computer/reader. Similarly, a generic OBD-II reader will generally not allow you to reset other diagnostic lights like your airbag sensor or ABS brakes; again, you will need a manufacturer-specific diagnostic tool to do this. However, if you are having those kinds of problems, you will most likely be visiting a professional mechanic anyways. Use this reader to figure out when can fix things by yourself and when you need to seek a professional.
As a professional technician i found that sometimes i just needed a quick scan of the code/codes and the ability to clear. This does just that. And it is also the least expensive i have found. I highly recommend it.
BalasHapusFirst of all, I must state that the scan tool worked well for my cars. Once connected it will:
BalasHapus- display diagnostic codes
- erase ALL codes
- retrieve I/M readiness status
- display the VIN number on 2002 or newer vehicles
- rescan
The MS300 supports the OBD II or OBD2 (On-Board-Diagnostics II) system and it understands all OBD2 protocols that a car may use: PWM, VPW, KWP2000, ISO9041, EKWP2000 or CAN. Once the proper protocol is detected, the MS300 is ready to display whatever Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC) the car computer's memory may be holding.
It should be noted that:
# it only retrieves codes already stored in the computer
# it does NOT provide any 'real-time' monitoring
# it is completely stand-alone and no Web-updates are possible
# it does not have printing capabilities
# it is powered through the car's own DLC (Data Link Connector)
The manual while not completely accurate does offer sufficient information to successfully connect and operate the device. It also includes a printed list of over 1000 generic Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC) definitions. 8000 more manufacturer specific DTCs can be found on the CD with more information at the company's own Web site.
In my case, I was able to diagnose within minutes the source for the 'Service Engine Soon' warning on my dashboard:
P0442 - EVAP Emission Control System Leak (Small)
I erased the codes and, if the warning reappears, I will know EXACTLY what to tell the technicians.
Given that I purchased this during one of Amazon's lightning deals, the price was right and I feel that I am getting a lot of value out of this little tool. The manual's small shortcomings do not compel me to subtract a star so, it's a 5-star device for me. I am happy I ordered it.
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Note: Sep. 1, 2009
It does NOT work on a Honda Insight 2010. No matter how many times I try, all I get is a 'LINK ERROR'.
I had a check engine light on my Toyota Camry 2001. I did a little research and found out that a computer scanner called an OBD II can be used as a diagnostic tool for most cars on the road today (1996 and newer with some exceptions). I decided to buy this affordable scanner rather than pay a mechanic $70 to $100 (plus sales tax, shop fees, and all their other nickle and dime fees) to read the code. When I got the Autel MaxiScan delivered, I read the instructions a couple of times. Then, I went out to the car and looked for the place to plug it in, which was right under the steering wheel. I plugged it in, turned the ignition key half way, pressed a few buttons on the scanner, and presto! It read P0401, which means egr flow insufficient. As it turns out, that is a common problem with 2001 Toyota Camrys. I cleared the engine light with the scanner, and unfortunately the engine light came back about 125 miles later. The P0401 code also came back.
BalasHapusI still have to resolve the problem, but at least I am not at the mercy of a mechanical telling me what is wrong with my car, or charging me a nice chunk of change for that information. If you get a check engine light on your car, I recommend you get this scanner and read the code before you go to an auto mechanic.
Good Reader... for the money
BalasHapusDoes 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.
I have an Odyssey with the dreaded check engine light, P0420 code. This scanner worked on the first try and is allowing me to try the workarounds found on the internet to get the light to go off. I will say that if you don't follow the exact sequence in the manual for connecting and starting the scan you will see the Link Error message. Just follow the instructions and it should work. Can't beat the price (vs. $150 for Goodyear and the dealer to read it) and it beats going to autozone every time I want to check it the codes and see if the sensors are ready.
BalasHapusSuper simple operation with lots of capability. Scans all kinds of different OBDII formats, and the new CAN2 format. Quick and easy to pull codes, and clear them.
BalasHapusIt doesn't have the one line description of what the code is, but I find that fairly useless anyway as some are car specific and details vary even onthe generic codes from car to car. Just pull the code and google it. I could hand this to my grandfather and with out saying a single work, he could make it work.
My 2004 Nissan Sentra failed smog because of an error code related to the thermostat and "service engine light" was on. The technician wanted $85 to diagnose it and who knows how much to fix it. I imagine the entire job would set me back around $150 at least.
BalasHapusI googled the error code on the smog test print out and found out it was most most likely a thermostat issue. I also learned that I'd need an OBDII scanner to read and erase the error code. I bought a thermostat at the auto part shop for $14 and this scanner for $18 shipped (amazon prime). I googled instructions on how to replace the thermostat. Unscrewed the housing, popped in the new one, screwed it back on, drove the car around for 20 minutes (service engine light was still on) and then parked and turned it off. Then I followed the instructions, which was to attach the scanner to the OBDII connector under the steering wheel. It fired right up, then I turned the ignition on (but didn't start it) it read everything and said there were no errors. Then I used it to erase the existing error code. BAM, service engine light went off and stayed off. Because I erased the computer data to wipe out the service engine light, I had to drive the car around a bit and wait for the self-diagnostic tests to run and build up data. This took about 45 minutes of driving time over the course of 2 days. The scanner was able to tell me when the tests were ready so it could be taken to the mechanic to re-do the smog test. Car passes smog, and I saved at least $100 and peace of mind knowing that I didn't get ripped off by a shady mechanic.
I don't know what else the average do-it-yourselfer would need from an OBDII scanner, but this is all I will probably ever need. It worked perfectly and exactly how the instructions said. I'm not sure if they changed the instructions or if other reviewers were reading their manuals wrong, but the instructions I got said to do exactly what they all said, however they stated that the instructions were differet. Shrug. It's pretty easy. Just stick it in the car, wait for it to be ready and then turn the ignition on without starting it.
Overall, it's a fantastic device. Everyone who drives a new car should have one. Between this and google you can probably solve a lot of small but costly problems with your car. I think the mechanic was pretty pissed that I went and bought this and did it myself for less than $40 total