 Handheld Code Reader £15.99-£95 |
 Medium Scanner £125-£215 |
 Home Scanner £300-£599 |
 Medium Diagnostic Tools £549-£1199 |
 Advanced Diagnostic Tools £1199-£1999 |
 Flagship Diagnostic Tools £2499-£3199 |
When you want to know what’s wrong with your vehicles, or try to do repairs by yourself, a car diagnostic tool is required. Autel, as one of the leaders in the automotive diagnostic industry, has been praised by global customers, and its diagnostic tools are widely used in workshops around the world.In fact, it’s no joke trying to find the right one from dozes of product pages, especially for novice mechanics. So, the article will introduce Autel diagnostic products step by step based on price and functional levels to help you choose the right tool for you.
Autel's current product series sold in the UK are Maxisys, MaxiCOM, MaxiPro, MaxiDAS, Maxicheck, MaxiDiag, AutoLink,MaxiScan according to the diagnostic level.
In the same series, the larger the number, the higher the diagnostic level.
Autel MaxiScan MS300/Autel MaxiScan MS309
Price: £15.99-£18.99
MaxiScan series are the Autel lowest-level OBD2 code reader currently, with models MS300 and MS309, capable of do some basic but necessary works, such as Turn Off Check Engine Light, Read & Erase Fault Codes, Check Emission Monitor Status, etc. Specific product comparison table as follows.
Both MS300/MS309 are priced below £20, plug-and-play, friendly for pre-2015 vehicles, and perfect for car DIYers and beginners to:
- Read/Clear fault codes(DTCs) to deal with emission-related issues
- Check the Emission Monitor Status for ready Smog Tests
- Reset a sudden Check Engine Light
Autel AutoLink AL519/Autel AutoLink AL519
Price:£55.00-£95.00
The larger the number, the higher the diagnostic level, and the wider the vehicle coverage. Compared to the simplest MS300/MS309, Autel AutoLink series, AL519 and AL619, covers more vehicles and new capabilities including All 10 Modes of OBDII Tests, One-Click Smog Check, Turn off Check Engine Light (MILs), etc. Upgraded from AL519, AL619 adds ABS/SRS diagnostic functions in response to market demand. The Specific product comparison table is as follows.
| Model |
 |
 |
| Live data | √ | √ |
| Read & erase DTCs | √ | √ |
| Retrieve the VIN | √ | √ |
| Freeze frame | √ | √ |
| I/M readiness status | √ | √ |
| C.A.N. capability | √ | √ |
| Datastream | √ | √ |
| Vehicle information | √ | √ |
| On-screen DTC definitions | √ | √ |
| Code lookup function on tool & printing capabilities | √ | √ |
| DTC cause/tips | √ | √ |
| Bi-directional testing + Advanced Mode 6 | √ | √ |
| I/M readiness key | √ | √ |
| ABS diagnose | / | √ |
| SRS diagnose | / | √ |
| Check engine light | √ | √ |
| Oil light reset | √ | √ |
| EVAP codes | √ | √ |
| Price | £55 | £95 |
Generally only the code reader in auto parts stores are equipped with full OBD2 diagnosis, as they can get complete OBD2-related data to handle more complex issues. If you don't want to pay the stores, you can choose AL519/AL619 to solve most emissions and engine-related problems. If the budget allows, AL619 is more recommended as you probably cannot avoid such common ABS/SRS warning lights or troubles.
Autel Maxicheck Pro/Autel MaxiDiag MD806/Autel MaxiDiag MD806 Pro(MD808 Pro)
Price:£129.00/£149.00/£165.00/£215.00
Compared to the above model, these handheld scanner extends the capability of common reset services services such as Oil Reset, ABS Auto Bleed, etc, some up to 7 kinds, which is great for those who service their vehicles a few times a year, and maybe save money on an Autel handheld tool without going to the repair shop for diagnostic and reset services. The Specific product comparison table is as follows.
| Model |
 |
 |
 |
 |
| OBDII Diagnosis | ||||
| Engine System | √ | √ | √ | / |
| Transmission System | √ | √ | √ | / |
| Anti-lock Braking System | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Supplemental Restraint System | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Electrical Park Brake System | / | √ | √ | / |
| Tire Pressure Monitoring System | / | √ | √ | / |
| Steering System | / | √ | √ | / |
| Air Conditioning System | / | √ | √ | / |
| Battery Management System | / | √ | √ | / |
| Chassis System Division | / | √ | √ | / |
| Brake Assist System | / | √ | √ | / |
| Security System | / | √ | √ | / |
| Reset Services | ||||
| Oil Service Reset | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| SAS Reset | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| EPB Service | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| BMS Reset | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| DPF Reset | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Throttle Adaptation | √ | √ | √ | / |
| Adjust A/F | √ | √ | √ | / |
Some important differences can be seen from the table:
Autel MD806 can diagnose 4 systems, namely Engine System, Transmission System, Anti-lock Braking System(ABS) and Supplemental Restraint System(SRS).
Autel Maxicheck Pro can only diagnose 2 systems, namely ABS and SRS system.
Maxicheck Pro does not support Throttle Adaptation and Adjust A/F.
MD808 Pro is the offline sales version of MD806 Pro, which is completely the same in function but different price due to the cost.
Regarding the reset services, not all reset services are available for your vehicle. So, a pre-sales consultation is highly recommended to make sure everything you want will work on vehicles, please provide vehicle VIN for us for matching.
Autel Maxicheck MX808/Autel MaxiCOM MK808BT/Autel MaxiCOM MK808TS
Price:£330.00/£429.00/£579.00
This series is positioned as Home Diagnostic Scanner, perfect for those who need daily maintenance, code reading, code clearing, reset services, (TPMS diagnosis), etc. Starting from this series, the diagnostic work is performed based on Android-based tablets. Compared with the handheld code reader, there are big breakthroughs in the functions and services---from few systems diagnostic to all systems diagnostic, from few reset services to dozens of services.
The tablet series not only covers more car models but also comes with many useful applications, such as Data Log allowing users to upload diagnostic reports to Autel technicians for answers, Remote Desk providing remote control assistance, Cloud Service, etc., which can greatly improve work efficiency.
What's more, since June 2022, expensive active tests and special features have been added to these tablets, making them the most cost-effective OBD2 scanners on the market.
The Specific product comparison table is as follows.
| Model |
 |
 |
 |
| CPU | ROCKCHIP RK3188 | ROCKCHIP RK3188 | ROCKCHIP RK3188 |
| RAM | 4G | 4G | 4G |
| ROM | 64G | 64G | 64G |
| Battery Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | 5000mAh |
| Android Version | Android 11.0 | Android 11.0 | Android 11.0 |
| Screen Size | 7 inch | 7 inch | 7 inch |
| Screen Resolution | 1024*600 | 1024*600 | 1024*600 |
| Camera | / | / | / |
| VCI | Main cable | VCI Mini | VCI Mini |
| Main Functions | |||
| Baic Features(Read/Erase Code & View Live Data) | √ | √ | √ |
| Service Functions | √ | √ | √ |
| Special Function | √ | √ | √ |
| Bi-Directional Control(Active Test) | √ | √ | √ |
| TPMS Functons | |||
| Advanced TPMS Diagnostics for Complete TPMS Health Check | / | / | √ |
| Activate 98% of all Known TPMS Sensors | / | / | √ |
| Program Autel MX Sensors | / | / | √ |
| Extensive OBD Relearn Coverage | / | / | √ |
| On-screen Relearn Procedure | / | / | √ |
| Other Functons | |||
| Auto VIN | √ | √ | √ |
| Remote Desk | √ | √ | √ |
| New Functons | |||
| Endoscope Function(MV108) | √ | √ | √ |
| Battery Test(BT506) | √ | √ | √ |
| Autel Cloud Service | √ | √ | √ |
| Price | ￡300.00 | ￡429.00 | ￡579 |
The relationship between these models is clear at a glance, as their names suggest: MX808+Bluetooth VCI=MK808BT; MK808BT+ Complete TPMS Function=MK808TS.
If only to deal with routine maintenance without TPMS issues, you only need to choose one from the wired version MX808 and wired + wireless version MK808BT. Of course, if the budget is not enough, MX808 will not disappoint you. If TPMS diagnosis is required, choose MK808TS, you will enjoy both Bluetooth capability and TPMS function, coming with Free 4 TPMS sensors.
Autel MaxiPro MP808BT/Autel MaxiPro MP808K/Autel MaxiPro MP808TS
Price:From ￡549.00/￡599.00/￡799.00
The MP808 series is designed for car DIY enthusiasts or small repair shop mechanics, configured with advanced functions such as code reading and clearing, reset services, Bidirectional Control (Active Test), Guided Function & Refresh Hidden Features for specific cars, etc. MP808 series products has the exact same diagnostic capability as MS906 but cost less, which is a more cost-effective choice. The Specific product comparison table is as follows.
| Model |
 |
 |
|
| CPU | ROCKCHIP RK3188 | ROCKCHIP RK3188 | ROCKCHIP RK3188 |
| RAM | 4G | 4G | 4G |
| ROM | 64G | 64G | 64G |
| Battery Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | 5000mAh |
| Android Version | Android 11.0 | Android 11.0 | Android 11.0 |
| Screen Size | 7 inch | 7 inch | 7 inch |
| Screen Resolution | 1024*600 | 1024*600 | 1024*600 |
| Camera | / | / | / |
| VCI | VCI Mini | Main Cable | VCI Mini |
| Main Functions | |||
| Baic Features(Read/Erase Code & View Live Data) | √ | √ | √ |
| Service Functions | √ | √ | √ |
| Special Function | √ | √ | √ |
| Bi-Directional Control(Active Test) | √ | √ | √ |
| TPMS Functons | |||
| Advanced TPMS Diagnostics for Complete TPMS Health Check | / | / | √ |
| Activate 98% of all Known TPMS Sensors | / | / | √ |
| Program Autel MX Sensors | / | / | √ |
| Extensive OBD Relearn Coverage | / | / | √ |
| On-screen Relearn Procedure | / | / | √ |
| Other Functons | |||
| Auto VIN | √ | √ | √ |
| Remote Desk | √ | √ | √ |
| New Functons | |||
| Endoscope Function(MV108) | √ | √ | √ |
| Battery Test(BT506) | √ | √ | √ |
| Autel Cloud Service | √ | √ | √ |
| Price | ￡549-￡599 | ￡599 | ￡799 |
The same logic can be seen in the series: MP808(K)+Bluetooth VCI=MP808BT; MP808BT+Complete TPMS Function=MP808TS.
MP808K is equivalent to MP808 with a box of non-OBD2 standard adapters, making it work on OBD1 vehicles. MP808(K) connects the tablet and vehicle via cable while MP808BT/MP808TS connects via Bluetooth VCI. If you need TPMS, MP808TS comes with the same TPMS capabilities as the handheld TPMS tool TS508, which is worth a try.
Autel MaxiSys MS906BT/Autel MaxiCOM MK906BT/Autel MaxiCOM MS906S/Autel MaxiSys MS906 Pro/Autel MaxiSys MS906TS
Price:£929.00/£899.00/£929.00/£1199.00/£1199.00
If you want to do high-end repairs or customize your car, 906 series can provide an optimal solution at a reasonable price. The series comes out with more powerful hardware configuration, except for the old MS906, these scanner are equipped with Bluetooth VCI and double battery life(or more). Compared with MP808 series, the biggest breakthrough of MS906 series is that it can do advanced Online ECU Coding for some specific models, such as BMW, Porsche, VW, etc. Best choice for DIY enthusiasts and small-to-medium auto repair shops who need pro ECU Coding, more advanced features, and wider vehicle coverage. The Specific product comparison table is as follows.
| Model |  MS906S |
 MS906BT |
 MK906BT |
 MS906 Pro |
 MS906TS |
| Hardware | |||||
| CPU | Exynox 5260 | Exynox 5260 | Exynox 5260 | Exynos 8895 | Exynox 5260 |
| RAM | 2GB | 2GB | 2GB | 4GB | 2GB |
| ROM | 64GB | 64GB | 64GB | 128GB | 64GB |
| Battery Capacity | 10000 mAh | 10000 mAh | 10000 mAh | 11600 mAh | 10000 mAh |
| Android Version | Android 4.4.4 | Android 4.4.4 | Android 4.4.4 | Android 7.0 | Android 4.4.4 |
| Screen Size | 8.0 inch | 8.0 inch | 8.0 inch | 8.0 inch | 8.0 inch |
| Screen Resolution | 1024*768 | 1024*768 | 1024*768 | 1920*1200 | 1024*768 |
| Camera | Rear 8.0 Megapixel | Rear 8.0 Megapixel | Rear 8.0 Megapixel | Rear 16.0 Megapixel Front 5.0 Megapixel |
Rear 8.0 Megapixel |
| VCI | V100 | V100 | V100 | V200 | V100 |
| Software | |||||
| Basic Diagnostic Function | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Service | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Special Functions | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Bi-Directional Control(Active Test) | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Online ECU Programming | / | / | / | / | / |
| Online ECU Coding | / | √(BMW, Porsche, VW) | √(BMW, Porsche, VW) | √(BMW, Porsche, VW) | √(BMW, Porsche, VW) |
| BMW Brush Hidden | / | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| VW, Audi, Skoda Brush Hidden | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| VW, Audi, Skoda, Seat, Bently, Man LD Guide function | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Extended function | |||||
| Oscilloscope function (requires MP408) | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Endoscope function (requires MV105/MV108) | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Battery Test | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Remote Expert | / | / | / | √ | / |
| Complete TPMS Function | |||||
| Quick Mode & Advance Mode | / | / | / | / | √ |
| Activate TPMS sensors | / | / | / | / | √ |
| Read sensor data | / | / | / | / | √ |
| TPMS health check | / | / | / | / | √ |
| Read/clear TPMS DTCs | / | / | / | / | √ |
| Scan TPMS sensor ID | / | / | / | / | √ |
| Manual input OE ID into MX-sensor | / | / | / | / | √ |
| Program MX-Sensor by auto creating sensor ID | / | / | / | / | √ |
| Read Sensor ID by OBD and copy ID into MX-Sensor | / | / | / | / | √ |
| Relearn by OBD function | / | / | / | / | √ |
| Relearn procedure guide on the tool | / | / | / | / | √ |
| Read TPMS live data | / | / | / | / | √ |
| Tire Type/Pressure selection | / | / | / | / | √ |
| Other TPMS special functions | / | / | / | / | √ |
| Other Features | |||||
| Remote Desk | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| DoIP/CAN | / | / | / | √ | / |
| D-PDU/RP1210 | / | / | / | / | / |
| Pre & Post Scan | / | / | √ | √ | √ |
| New Features | |||||
| Language | Only English | Only English | Multi-Language | Only English | Only English |
| Autel Cloud Service | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Wifi Printer | / | / | / | √ | / |
| Price | £929.00 | £929.00 | £899.00 | £1199.00 | £1199.00 |
From the table, the five scanners can be divided into three levels in hardware and software, namely MS906S, MK906BT/MS906BT/MS906TS, and MS906 Pro.
Upgraded from the wired scanner MS906, MS906S is configured with Bluetooth VCI and double battery life. But MS906/MS906S does not support ECU Coding function.
MK906BT and MS906BT are built on different-size tablets but have the same function. MK906BT supports 13 languages but MS906BT only supports English. MS906TS is equivalent to MS906BT+TS508, and can perform complete TPMS functions.
Compared to the above models, MS906 Pro has been greatly improved in RAM, ROM, battery capacity, Android version, screen resolution, camera, VCI, etc. And more intelligent service functions are added to better assist your diagnostic work.
Prices vary widely, and it's wise to position yourself for your needs:
If you need TPMS diagnostic, MS906TS or the newest model MK906 Pro-TS(listed later) is for your choice. If not, or you already have professional TPMS diagnostic tools but want to try the latest Autel tools, MS906 Pro with newest processor is highly recommended.
If you only need ECU Coding, choose MK906BT or MS906BT, according your language need. If not, or the budget is not enough, choose MS906 or MS906S.
Autel MaxiCOM MK908/Autel MaxiSys MS908S Pro/Autel MaxiSys Elite II
Price:£1199.00/£1799.00/£1999.00
908 series features the high-end functions such as ECU Coding, Adaptation, Refresh Hidden Functions, (ECU Programming for Benz/BWM), etc, perfect for medium-sized repair shops and experienced car DIYer enthusiasts who have high requirements for car modification and maintenance. The Specific product comparison table is as follows.
| Model |  MK908 |
 MS908S Pro |
 MK908P |
 Elite II |
| Hardware | ||||
| CPU | Exynox 5260 | Exynox 5260 | Exynox 5260 | Exynos 8895 |
| RAM | 2GB | 2GB | 2GB | 4GB |
| ROM | 64GB | 64GB | 64GB | 128GB |
| Battery Capacity | 15000 mAh | 11000 mAh | 15000 mAh | 15400 mAh |
| Android Version | Android 4.4.2 | Android 4.4.2 | Android 4.4.2 | Android 7.0 |
| Screen Size | 10.1 inch | 9.7 inch | 10.1 inch | 9.7 inch |
| Screen Resolution | 1920*1200 | 1024*768 | 1920*1200 | 1536*2048 |
| Camera | Rear 8.0 Megapixel | Rear 8.0 Megapixel | Rear 8.0 Megapixel | Rear 16.0 Megapixel Front 5.0 Megapixel |
| VCI | Bluetooth Box | MaxiFlash Elite | MaxiFlash Elite | MaxiFlash Elite |
| Software | ||||
| Basic Diagnostic Function | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Service | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Special Functions | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Bi-Directional Control(Active Test) | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Online ECU Programming | / | √(Benz, BMW) | √(Benz, BMW) | √(Benz, BMW) |
| Online ECU Coding | √(BMW, Porsche, VW) | √(Benz, BMW, Audi, Porsche, VW) | √(Benz, BMW, Audi, Porsche, VW) | √(Benz, BMW, Audi, Porsche, VW) |
| VW, Audi, Skoda Brush Hidden | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| VW, Audi, Skoda, Seat, Bently, Man LD Guide function | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| McLaren, Tesla diagnostics | / | √ | / | √ |
| Extended function | ||||
| Oscilloscope function (requires MP408) | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Endoscope function (requires MV105/MV108) | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Battery Test | / | √ | / | √ |
| Remote Expert | / | √ | / | √ |
| New Features | ||||
| Language | Multi-Language | Only English | Multi-Language | Multi-Language |
| Autel Cloud Service | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Wifi Printer | / | / | / | √ |
| Price | £1199.00 | £1899.00 | £1834.00 | £1999.00 |
Each scanner has its own characteristics, choose according your needs:
MS908S Pro or Elite II is a optimal solution for those who need ECU Programming. If the budget allows, it is recommended to choose Elite II, equipped with the newest Intelligent Diagnosis (since June 2022), superior hardware and multiple languages.
If you’re not sure if ECU Programming is required, MK908 provides another flexible choice---when encountering programming problems, purchase J2534 Programming device additionally to bind MK908, and you will get ECU programming function.
Autel MaxiSys Ultra/Autel MaxiCOM Ultra Lite
Price:£3199.00/£2899.00
The series, as Autel’s flagship products, is configured with top-of-the-line hardware and software, suitable for medium and large auto repair shops, helping mechanics quickly perform diagnostics, create topology maps, etc. Currently, only Ultra and Ultra Lite are sold in Europe due to IP restrictions. The Specific product comparison table is as follows.
| Model |  Ultra Lite |
 Ultra |
| Hardware | ||
| CPU | Exynos 8895 | Exynos 8895 |
| RAM | 4GB | 4GB |
| ROM | 256GB | 256GB |
| Battery Capacity | 18000 mAh | 18000 mAh |
| Android Version | Android 7.0 | Android 7.0 |
| Screen Size | 12.9 inch | 12.9 inch |
| Screen Resolution | 2732*2048 | 2732*2048 |
| Camera | Rear 16.0 Megapixel Front 5.0 Megapixel |
Rear 16.0 Megapixel Front 5.0 Megapixel |
| VCI | MaxiFlash VCI | MaxiFlash VCMI |
| Software | ||
| Basic Diagnostic Function | √ | √ |
| Service | √ | √ |
| Special Functions | √ | √ |
| Bi-Directional Control(Active Test) | √ | √ |
| Online ECU Programming | √(Benz, BMW) | √(Benz, BMW) |
| Online ECU Coding | √(Benz, BMW, Audi, Porsche, VW) | √(Benz, BMW, Audi, Porsche, VW) |
| VW, Audi, Skoda Brush Hidden | √ | √ |
| VW, Audi, Skoda, Seat, Bently, Man LD Guide function | √ | √ |
| McLaren, Tesla diagnostics | √ | √ |
| Extended function | ||
| Oscilloscope function (requires MP408) | / | √ |
| Endoscope function (requires MV105/MV108) | √ | √ |
| Battery Test | √ | √ |
| Remote Expert | √ | √ |
| Flagship Product Features | ||
| Intelligent diagnostics (TSB technical bulletins, DTC guidance, fault prioritization, maintenance videos, etc.) | √ | √ |
| Diagnostic System Topology | √ | √ |
| Diagnostic standard D-PDU/RP1210 | √ | √ |
| Bus protocol DoIP/CAN FD | √ | √ |
| New Features | ||
| Language | Multi Language | Only English |
| Autel Cloud Service | √ | √ |
| Wifi Printer | √ | √ |
| Accessories | Free A Box of OBD1 No-Strandard Adapters | Free A Box of OBD1 No-Strandard Adapters |
| Price | 2899 | 3199 |
Ultra Lite has the same top-level hardware as Ultra, 4G RAM, 256G ROM, 12.9-inch touchscreen, front and rear dual cameras, etc. The main difference is that Ultra Lite is equipped with MaxiFlash VCI for Bluetooth communication while Ultra is equipped with VCMI for five integrated functions, including VCI, Oscilloscope, Waveform Generator, Multimeter, and OBD2 CAN BUS Tester. It is worth noting that if you need an Oscilloscope, Ultra is the only alternative that can carry an oscilloscope, because the Oscilloscope device MP408, compatible with other scanners, has been out of production.
Ultra Lite and Ultra are configured with same flagship features in software. Regarding Autel cloud service, there is no difference between Ultra Lite and Ultra sold in Europe.
Obviously, Ultra Lite is more cost-effective than Ultra. But, With the gradual release of IP restrictions, Ultra will extends more functions. If the price of the Ultra is within your budget, the top-of-the-line scanner Ultra is highly recommended.
Summary:
The introduction and comparison of Autel scanner are roughly seen on the above, from MS300 to Ultra. Please see product page for more details, just a click.
Before you order, we still need to inform you some precautions:
- More advanced scanner or newer releases means wider vehicle coverage;
- All functions vary by specific car model. Apre-sales consultationis highly recommended to make sure everything you want will work on vehicles, please provide vehicle VIN for us for matching. please 👉contact us.
