Why We Picked the Autel MS906TS Scan Tool for Our Shop
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- čas přidán 7. 06. 2022
- Choosing a scan tool in today's market is a big decision for any shop or serious 'DIY' consumer. The functions, hardware quality and software package that come with a scan tool will determine its value.
Update downloads and software subscriptions also must be considered. Many manufacturers have "cloud" based subscriptions and technical services that quickly double or triple the purchase price of a tool.
In the current market, ADAS and TPMS have added more demands to scan tools. After considering all of these variables and researching available products, we picked the Autel MS906TS scan tool for its features, rugged construction, software quality, tech support and price point.
This coverage explores the use, troubleshooting parameters and navigational ease of the Autel MS906TS. We do all vehicle service and maintenance in-house. For our shop's purposes, this scan tool is the cost effective solution for diagnostics, troubleshooting and overall vehicle maintenance. Whether a smog inspection is looming or we're following our high priority preventive care, this Autel® tool saves us time and considerable expense.
The miles on our vehicles range from 107,000 to 191,000 miles, and we plan to keep them. Safe and reliable, our 1999 Jeep® Cherokee, 2005 Ram-Cummins 4x4 truck and the 2003 Volkswagen TDI Jetta deliver top performance. A scan tool like the Autel MS906TS helps us maintain this "fleet" and stay ahead of trouble.
Autel MS906TS article coverage is also available at the magazine: 4wdmechanix.com/why-we-picked...
For more information and how-to visit www.4WDmechanix.com and forums.4WDmechanix.com. - Auta a dopravní prostředky
Nice introduction to mid-level scanner capabilities. We chose to go with the non-TPMS MS906bt and a separate TPMS scanner, bt608.
Thanks, GaryG...I appreciate the feedback...My Autel MP408 MaxiScope with OAK accessories kit completes the troubleshooting and diagnostics package. The only add-on planned (at least for the moment!) is an in-cylinder transducer. I picked up a vacuum/pressure pulse sensor for intake and exhaust tests. I am an oscilloscope advocate (first used a traditional "engine analyzer scope" in 1969) and will be covering equipment like our scanners and the MP408 in my Teachable courses (roadandtrailready.teachable.com).
Thanks for the video,its a choice that im trying to work out which unit I require,I have a Hyundai Elantra 2012 and they have an electronic throttle body and Im trying to lift my rpm a bit and I know that it can be done with a scanner as Ive watched a video demonstrating this but that unit was an Autel MK 908 Pro ll which was quite pricey so if anyone knows a brand or model that can do that without spending an arm and a leg please give me a heads up and I would greatly appreciated as trying to find this info is like pullin teeth. Thanks heaps mate
David L...You're correct about the MS906TS and other models not having the broad range of features found in the Autel 919 and Ultra scan tools. These two upper tier tools with VCMI now have a built-in oscilloscope, VOM, waveform generator, CAN BUS tester and other functions that are not found in the 906 and other earlier editions. Autel has made a quantum leap into high-end scanners. The best way to drill down on features is Autel's own "store" at store.autel.com/collections/automotive-diagnostic-tools. Concerning your need for a scope that does ECU/ECM programming, compare the features and cost of each Autel scan tool model. Retail pricing is substantially less from tool suppliers, most folks shop for the best price. Autel's site lists MSRP.
Another factor that's crept into the picture is the escalating annual software renewal subscription costs. Autel is certainly not unique here. Autel is far less costly than competitors with mandatory "cloud-based subscriptions". For an automotive shop doing late vehicles with ADAS and needing the latest updates, the Autel subscription update cost is readily offset by billable charges for service work. For a 'DIY' user, which has been a sizable Autel market to date, the cost of subscription updates could be an issue.
The good news is that you own the Autel software download(s) that you purchase and can decide whether or not you want to update the software with an annual subscription renewal. The tool's current functionality does not end with the subscription period. You may find that the 2012 Hyundai Elantra data included in the initial software download is sufficient for your work and needs.
To be clear, I'm very satisfied with my Autel MS906TS. The build quality is exceptional, and available functions are very worthwhile, especially at its price point. However, I'm also grateful that I have the Autel MP408 oscilloscope and OAK accessories kit. I can readily get by with this tier of scanner, though I will be buying a standalone signal or waveform generator. Yes, it would be great to have the oscilloscope and other 5-in-1 VCMI features of the 919 and Ultra, but shops must make scanners and other diagnostic tools pay for themselves. For the shop that can, the Autel 919 or Ultra would be my pick.
tanks please update more video about autel
You're welcome...I'll keep posting videos as I use these tools.
Thank you for bringing up this topic in such a wonderful and smooth way. I have a question and I hope you can help me sir. I've had the same device for 6 years, and it worked fine, but four months ago the company sent me a software update. After completing the update, the Bluetooth connection feature with the OBD device was cancelled. After looking through the software driver files, I found the Bluetooth driver to be empty. Is it possible to install a new driver for Bluetooth? Thank you for your generosity. 🙏
You're welcome, and thanks for the feedback. Have you tried reloading the software update? I would try that first and see whether the Bluetooth restores. If that does not work, it would be worthwhile to contact Autel customer or tech support with this issue. They may have a download or "patch" to share or suggestions on how to make a third party Bluetooth driver work with the software. Let us know how this turns out and what caused the issue. Thanks.
Thank you for your quick response, Mr. Moses. At that time, I received a notification from the company saying that you must update the software. Indeed, I made this (fateful) update 🤭. After completing the update, I found this problem: I cannot connect via Bluetooth! When I go to the Bluetooth file, I find it empty. I am using it via a USB cable.
Thank you very much for your cooperation
Have you re-paired the VCI to your Bluetooth? This could be a pairing issue. You have USB, which is good. Try the pairing steps. Be sure that the Autel VCI app is available for pairing. See if that restores the Bluetooth. This would be similar to pairing a cell phone and Bluetooth app.
does this scanner do diesel actual fuel rail pressure and desired fuel rail pressure? Does this scanner do injector balance readings?
If the software follows fuel rail pressure for a given model/engine, that is a live data function. Basically, if the OEM sensors and software can monitor fuel pressure, this scanner can provide similar data. As for injector balance, the MS906TS is able to "kill" individual cylinders, which provides an audible sense that the cut off injector had been pulling a load. (You can hear the engine lose the cylinder.) We used to call this a "dynamic compression test" on older gasoline engine testing with an oscilloscope engine analyzer. Today, however, the PCM/ECU/ECM compensates for the idle rpm drop, so you cannot determine the actual power loss (percentage) with an individual cylinder shut off. This is a still a useful, quick test of whether the injector is functioning or not. For simulated compression testing, I use my Autel MP408 oscilloscope to test starter motor voltage/amp draw variances as each piston comes up on its compression stroke. (The gasoline engine or CRD's fuel pump is disabled during this test to prevent firing.) The more amp load, the higher the compression. This is highly useful.
Hi great video, do you know if the scanner can rest the DPF eolys counter for the dpf additive fluid on a Volvo? Many thanks
I'm not sure, as this has to do with Autel's software parameters for your Volvo. (The functions depend on Autel software.) For my '03 Jetta TDI, I'm still experimenting with whether the VW "Group" sequences can be duplicated or if I need the Ross-Tech VCDS package. Try reaching out to Autel tech support for clarification. Let us know what you discover.
@@RoadReadywithMosesLudel will do just waiting for my ms906 to arrive and I will see what she can do. I have vcds for my Vw it’s a great bit of kit. The only thing that has reset the eolys counter so far is Volvos version of vcds Vida dice 🎲 but didn’t want to buy loads of different cables. But if this new 906 can’t do it. It will still be a great upgrade from my mk808
@@vw_mods_4711 Let us know how this works out...For my needs, I'm very pleased with the MS906TS and its functions. The build quality is excellent. You will certainly find it an upgrade in any case. If I were doing late model vehicle commercial work, day in and out, the "Ultra" would be great. However, you need a lot of business to pay for that scanner and its annual software subscriptions. In your case or mine, our vehicles are covered with the included software that comes with the MS906TS.
@@RoadReadywithMosesLudelHi just to let you know it does work you can do it in the diagnostic tab! Not service
Great news...added value in your new tool! Others will benefit from your Volvo comments...At the price range, the MS906TS works! I will let folks know whether the scanner's software follows the OEM VW "Group" approach. The scanner's architecture is solid. It's just a matter of the software's parameters. So far, your Volvo needs have been met. Thanks for sharing!
Do you have to pay every year to used these OBD ? If you dont pay every year or monthly Does it still works ? Does it Scan for Fuel Pressure Does it Scan for
Compression testing Like Sparks ? So if you dont update for example does that still works ?
Yes, Autel offers an annual software subscription with updates. There is a fee for renewal of the subscription. My MS906TS scanner came with the first load of software and coverage. The coverage and updates were live for a year. After a year, if I did not renew the subscription, updates stopped. For some users, the original software load and updates during the first year are enough. A commercial shop that keeps adding newer model vehicles to its customer base would require an annual subscription renewal. If the original software has all the information you need, the software does remain active in the scan tool after the first year. The only risk is that any corrections or updates that might come with later software are not in the scanner unless you renew the subscription. For example, my MS906TS covers our 2003 Jetta, 2005 Ram 3500 and the 1999 XJ Cherokee (each is OBD-II). The original software seems to be reliable and works well. If we were to purchase a 2024 vehicle and did not have the latest software, that vehicle would not be in the scan tool's software. A subscription renewal would be needed for the latest vehicle coverage...Regarding the tests the tool can perform, that always depends on the OBD-II information available to the vehicle's ECM/ECU or PCM. If there is a fuel pressure sensor in the system feeding information or live data to the vehicle's onboard computer, the MS906TS will display and monitor that reading and PIDs. Available data and tests for my vehicles provide a lot of OBD-II information. (Contact Autel if you need to know more about what the scan tool can test on your vehicle or vehicles.) As for diagnosing the ignition or compression, any ignition data that normally streams to the ECM/ECU or PCM as part of OBD-II diagnostics can be read and displayed by the scan tool. However, this scan tool by itself is not an oscilloscope. It will partner with the separate Autel MP408 oscilloscope module for electrical tests, displaying or monitoring spark firing lines, tailpipe pressure tests or readings from an in-cylinder pressure transducer. To understand how the MS906TS MaxiSys scan tool works with the MP408 oscilloscope module or an Autel digital inspection camera, download a copy of the MS906TS instructions at: www.autel.com/u/cms/www/202212/010837130cp4.pdf. This PDF also explains all of the MS906TS functions and tests. I did a video on the use of my Autel MaxiScope MP408 at: czcams.com/video/_-2rYaPhOVU/video.html. Regarding compression tests, you can perform a "dynamic compression test" with the MS906TS scan tool. Here, you switch off each cylinder's injector in sequence. The scan tool measures the rpm drop for each cylinder. If a cylinder shows very little rpm drop (less than the other cylinders tested), and if the fuel supply/injector and spark are good for that cylinder, the cylinder is not pulling enough load. Compression at that cylinder is likely low and should be checked with a traditional compression gauge or a cylinder leakdown test. Valve lift should also be checked at that cylinder.
I bought the ms906pro-ts
I also bought the bore scope
I went to buy the MP408 oscilloscope to find out it’s discontinued with no plans of a new one coming out. Really frustrating
Also I just tried to program a new bladed key with a transponder in it on a 2013 gmc truck . Gives me the option to do it under Immo keys . For it to just say primary key numbers currently match /procedure not required. But has codes b3060:00 unprogrammed transponder
P0633:00 theft, turn key, not programmed
Called Autel told me I need to purchase im508 or im608 which is whole other scanner/programmer for keys and of coarse not cheap . I bought this so I could do keys too which it says it can , well maybe just some
In my eyes if certain vehicles keys can’t be programmed wish it would tell us
Great video by the way
Just venting with my frustration
I understand your frustration...Autel has shifted focus to the Ultra and 919, which have built-in oscilloscope functions. I had the MP408 before the MS906TS and actually like the standalone oscilloscope. (It's similar to a 4-channel PICO automotive scope at far less cost. PICO does offer a troubleshooting library, which the MP408 does not.) If you do want an MP408, search the market, there are suppliers who may still offer the MP408 and have them available. It's worthwhile to have the MP408 along with the optional OAK accessories kit. The later scan tools are terrific-and expensive. The annual subscriptions for software updates can be costly, too. I find that with my 1999 to 2005 vehicles, the original software that came with the MS906TS works well. I have not needed to update software yet. If you run a shop with an annual need to update for the latest vehicles, a subscription renewal would be necessary.
Thank you for the reply, I don’t know if it’s true but also heard the mp408 will only operate on the older Android operating systems 4.4
The ms906pro tc is
Android 7
I did find a mp408 brand new for $600 Canadian but just don’t know if worth it .
Might just sell my ms906 pro tc has updates until July 2025 and buy the ultra
Compare the cost and added value. The Ultra does have a built-in oscilloscope function, which is a major benefit. Subscription renewals are costly, though, so consider that in the overall cost. The MP408, if practical, does not require updates, it's a universal tool that addresses voltage-based devices and is not dependent on ECM/ECU data streams. (I highly recommend the OAK accessory kit upgrade if you do buy an MP408.) It's an entirely different premise with the oscilloscope. We're analyzing the actual sensors and electrical devices. Add a pressure transducer, and this can even include in-cylinder pressure testing of a running engine! Scanners and oscilloscopes complement each other but serve different goals. The Ultra makes sense if you need a high-end scan tool with many extra functions, including the oscilloscope and a signal generator.
My question is will it program keys for older model vehicles?I have the MX808 and that junk was the worst $500 I have ever spent!They've crippled that scanner so bad,you might as well make it a kids tablet!
Autel, like others, has moved to more sophisticated scanners (i.e. more costly but with many additional features for the latest generation vehicles). The 909, 919 and Ultra are the kind of tools that have the features you need. I like the MS906TS for my uses, our shop/studio is not dealing with a vast array of cars and trucks. Our personal vehicles are 1999 (Jeep Cherokee), 2003 (VW Jetta TDI) and 2005 (Ram/Cummins 3500) models. It works well for these vehicles and even later vehicles covered in the software. (No key programming, though.) For much more cost, the Ultra has features like a signal generator and built-in oscilloscope. Fortunately, I have the MP408 scope with OAK accessories.
@@RoadReadywithMosesLudel It's a b-directional scanner,it's just Autel crippled it from the start!I have the XTool Pro 100 and that will program just about any key and adjust mileage as needed!Autel is getting left in the dust with other manufacturers producing way better shop scanners.They've become a joke,and it shows!
@@SurgemanXI would say you are totally incorrect! Not all scanners serve the same purpose, I’ve have been through many Autel does a great job not over the top price great functions
I appreciate the overview but if you actually showed how you use the scanner this would have been a much more useful video.
Will do...Thanks for the constructive suggestion! I will share actual tests when performing them...
How much for the scanner
The official Autel website has full MSRP on these tools. Price is all over the board from different vendors. I suggest Google-ing for "best price". Stay with a known vendor for quality and product support. The scanner should come with a first year software subscription. Always be aware of the renewal cost for an annual subscription.
I've tried to no avail. Because the Bluetooth driver is empty, as if it was uninstalled. Thank you for your support sir. I am very sorry that I bothered you with my problem. I wish you a good night 🫡
Sorry you have not resolved the issue...I wish you success in finding an answer, perhaps through Autel.
Thank you, sir. I will try to contact the company, and I will inform you of the news🫡