Autel MK900-BT Scanner or Something Better?

[gmartin1215]

Hi,

I wanted to get a bi-directional scanner that can do more than my outdated OBDII Innova scanner that does not have bi-directional. I have considered getting a cloned Tech 2, but I wanted something that could be used for all my cars. With that, I landed on the Autel MK900-BT. Its a nice tool for about $530, but I am not certain if I should keep it or get something different/better, while still being around the same price point or better. One thing I don't like about the Autel is I only get updates for a year before having to pay for their subscription. Autel claims I'll still be able to use the tool when the subscription runs out, but won't get any new updates. I am fine with that because I am DIYer and not in a shop that will see not see newer models all the time.

Anyone have experience with the Autel MK900-BT or any other Autels? Any reason not to keep this scanner? Are there better scanners to consider?

 

[Fless]

It really depends on your needs. I have an Autel MaxiPRO MP808S-TS, about two years old, with which I'm happy. You can still use the scanner after the 1 year license expires, but won't get updates for newer vehicles. And there's that annoying renewal message (after expiration) on boot, which can be ignored. I may at some point pay the $200+ fee for another year and a full update, but that's not a pressing issue. One thing you want to watch about buying is to get the newer models that use the later versions of Android.

Ours was nearly $1k back then, but I see they're around $900 now -- my son and I share it -- but it also will program Autel TPMS sensors, as well as electronically set the TPMS wheel positions. Very handy for that.

Ivan at Pine Hollow Auto Diagnostics (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn4Ifss-t3wMT6VBzQoKPUA) has a video or two about scanner comparisons, as well as periodic discounts, usually around holidays, in his Amazon store. Obviously other reviews are around the 'net.

 

[Joseph Garcia]

Hi,

I wanted to get a bi-directional scanner that can do more than my outdated OBDII Innova scanner that does not have bi-directional. I have considered getting a cloned Tech 2, but I wanted something that could be used for all my cars. With that, I landed on the Autel MK900-BT. Its a nice tool for about $530, but I am not certain if I should keep it or get something different/better, while still being around the same price point or better. One thing I don't like about the Autel is I only get updates for a year before having to pay for their subscription. Autel claims I'll still be able to use the tool when the subscription runs out, but won't get any new updates. I am fine with that because I am DIYer and not in a shop that will see not see newer models all the time.

Anyone have experience with the Autel MK900-BT or any other Autels? Any reason not to keep this scanner? Are there better scanners to consider?

I just picked up that scanner, as the Prime Day price was too attractive to pass up. I haven't used it yet, so I cannot give you any personal observations at this time.

 

[j91z28d1]

off topic, but I really want to see that newer gear wrench scanner in person. the big selling point is one time buy, life time updates. I think it's 600$. I have the little 150$ dongle at work and it works great, used it on ford's, Toyota and gm's so far. does tons of stuff for a dongle and phone app.

I don't know if it flashes modules or anything but I still have the OBDx for that.

 

[Fless]

off topic, but I really want to see that newer gear wrench scanner in person. the big selling point is one time buy, life time updates. I think it's 600$. I have the little 150$ dongle at work and it works great, used it on ford's, Toyota and gm's so far. does tons of stuff for a dongle and phone app.

I don't know if it flashes modules or anything but I still have the OBDx for that.

I see a Gear Wrench scanner that has 3 years of updates, but $150/yr after. Link to the one you referenced?

 

[j91z28d1]

I see a Gear Wrench scanner that has 3 years of updates, but $150/yr after. Link to the one you referenced?

maybe I fell fell for their marketing and didn't look deep enough?

let me check when I get a miny

 

[j91z28d1]

maybe I fell fell for their marketing and didn't look deep enough?

let me check when I get a miny

yep, they got me. the dongle says

"No more missing features, no more hidden costs, and no more financial strain. With comprehensive coverage for over 180+ manufacturers, a 2-year warranty, and free lifetime software updates"

I just figured the bigger one was the same since at Sema that was their marketing gimmick. but it's only 3 years and then 150 a year after.

 

[fredcook]

I have an '08 and '13 Tahoe. I regularly use a TopDon Phoenix Plus 2 and TopDon's RLink J2534 passthrough. I also happen to have the Autel MK900. Not worth it in my opinion. I mean, it's "ok", but missing some features that I like. Topology view for one. Bi-directional controls have been sketchy using the MK900 on my Tahoe's, and a couple of relearns didn't go well (had to use the TopDon to run them again and fix things). I also prefer the user interface from TopDon. While that more a personal preference, I do feel TopDon is more intuitive. Also, TopDon customer support is really good. Live, U.S. based, human phone support. Autel support is, again, "ok", but the MK line is not considered a U.S. model, and sometimes support is hesitant to help, especially if you didn't get it from someone they approve of. TopDon doesn't have region specific models and they don't care where you bought it from. If it has their name on it, they support it.

As for using the Phoenix Plus 2 on the Tahoe's... it does a great job. In addition to all standard OBDII PIDs, it reads all of GM's PIDs. Its live data graphs and visual topology are great. All the service functions available on the Tahoe's are there, as are all the bi-directional actuations. You can test pretty much everything from the tablet. The only thing it won't do is code and program GM. You need a J2534 for that, just as you would with any brand of scan tool. Again, I have TopDon's Rlink J2434. It works without issues, and GM supports its use with Tech2Win and SPS2. If you need to get more serious, you can add TopDon's oscilloscope (Phoenix Scope) to the Plus 2. I did, and it's a pretty decent 4 channel automotive scope. I also added their battery/charging system tester and thermal camera to the Plus 2. Altogether, it's a nice toolset.

Phoenix Plus 2 – OE-Level Diagnostic Scan Tool with CAN-FD & Bi-Directional Controls | TOPDON USA

Unlock advanced diagnostics with the TOPDON Phoenix Plus 2, an updated version of the popular Phoenix Plus. With new CAN-FD support, this tool now covers a broader range of modern vehicles. It offers powerful ECU Coding, precise active testing, over 41 essential maintenance functions, and the...

www.topdon.us

 

[solli5pack]

Anyone have opinions on the Icon scanner from Harbour Freight?

 

[Fless]

Anyone have opinions on the Icon scanner from Harbour Freight?

Eric O at South Main Auto (YouTube) uses the ICON from time to time, and generally says good things about it. I think it might be based on the Launch software.

 

[solli5pack]

Eric O at South Main Auto (YouTube) uses the ICON from time to time, and generally says good things about it. I think it might be based on the Launch software.

Yeah. That's were I first noticed it. I think he's getting paid to use it but I still feel he gives an honest opinion. I'm looking to get a high end scanner at some point as well and it's on the list of ones I'm considering.

 

[Fless]

Yeah. That's were I first noticed it. I think he's getting paid to use it but I still feel he gives an honest opinion. I'm looking to get a high end scanner at some point as well and it's on the list of ones I'm considering.

I think he got it free because they sent it to him, but I'm under the impression that there's no additional remuneration.