Header banner
Revain logoHome Page
Calvin Chavva photo
1 Level
1257 Review
56 Karma

Review on ๐Ÿ”ง Autel MaxiCOM MK906BT Diagnostic Scan Tool with MV108 [+$60]: Same Function as MS906BT/MK908, 2021 Newest Automotive Scanner for ECU Coding, 31+ Services & OE Full Diagnostics, Bi-Directional Control, ABS Bleed by Calvin Chavva

Revainrating 5 out of 5

Probably the best scanner for DIY

My Ride: Acura TL 6MT 2004 with ECU 2007 (programmed to higher requirements): production) for about 5 years, during which it is possible to automatically extract the VIN (after a software update ), read and clear the OBD-II code, recalibrate the VSA system and much more. However, he has no access to the remaining systems, mainly BODY ELECTRICAL. I came to the conclusion that I needed an improved semi-professional scanner. One reviewer noted that the MS906BT is better than the Honda HDS (Honda/Acura Dedicated Factory Diagnostics). When I first tried it, the MS906BT showed that many systems in my computer were NOT SUPPORTED. I thought it was because my TL was outdated; 15 year old car and I was almost thinking of returning it. However, as I played around with it, I found a section (the simplest scan mode; icon in the top left corner) that actually gave me access to many of the BODY ELECTRICAL systems, which is what I needed. In this MANY functions. Tablet. I liked the TEST/SETUP functions that allow you to send commands to many systems/components. For example, you can turn on the radiator fan, adjust the throttle, open/close the windows, operate the mirrors, turn on the interior and exterior lights, sound the horn, check the door lock actuators, etc., without using the vehicle controller. Check input/system output. Exit. The only supported item that didn't respond to me was the sunroof actuation test. MS906BT cannot program the ECU or map the keys to a new ECU as you must be a registered company (dealer, shop or locksmith) but you can program duplicate keys. . Also, this tablet has massive capacity for new cars (even my 2004 TL is well supported). While it doesn't come cheap, this is probably the best choice for those who have lost faith in the shops and have decided to do most of the maintenance on their cars when they can afford it. I've compared this model to more expensive models but the difference seems to be that the higher end models have a faster processor, a bit more memory, TPMS programming/calibration and apparently ECU programming/mapping capabilities for some Germans Brands and Ford have (unconfirmed). They're professionally priced ($2,000 and up) and likely overkill for DIYers. The VCI car communication interface (with built-in LED to identify the DLC connector in the dark) connects to the DLC/OBD-II connection. then connected to the tablet via BlueTooth. The tablet connects to the network via Wi-Fi, allowing you to register your device and download when software updates are available. The screen is very clear with a comfortable layout. If you're used to the iPad or other tablets, this is the cake to use. There are a lot of red connectors in the hard case, but these are OBD-I adapters so you might not need them. The packaging and instructions are of high quality and remind me of Japanese products from the 80s and early 2000s. Incidentally, I was given an iPad mini at work (airline), but it was not at all easy to use and is now gathering dust in my tool cabinet. I've never been a fan of tablets, but the MS906BT is a lot of fun to work with and I've copied some of my favorite songs onto a USB stick (although the music sometimes stops playing). Supported music file types: WAVE, MP3 and more, but WMA files are not supported, so I had to convert WMA files to MP3 (takes up much less space than WAVE). Chrome browser is installed so you can also access the internet. You can also use microSD. This is not just an OBD-II scanner, but a tablet with automotive diagnostics. This is where the high price starts, and for me it was money well spent. With dealerships/high-end stores charging upwards of $100 an hour, you'll get even more than a few visits to the dealership. As intended, the S7 Pro includes a tablet, power adapter, optional endoscopy camera, and VCI. CONS: - USB 2.0, not 3.0 or 4.0 (Type-C) - Low memory (only 30GB and about half of it). already dedicated to the OS) - VSA calibration seems to be missing (or I just couldn't find it), so I consider the Actron CP9580A-VCI expensive ($300-400), so don't lose it or break it - Customer Support / Der Service has yet to be assessed should I need it for a battery change etc. POLITICAL IMPRESSIONS: I hate to admit it, but some Chinese companies have eclipsed American and Japanese companies. Until now, even for quality products, I have hardly given 5-star ratings on China-made products as I support US and Japan manufacturing. Most still don't impress me, but Autel is way ahead of the US and Japan. The Japanese shot themselves in the foot while brutalizing the workers; an irreversible failure that could have killed the nation forever (almost all the giant electronics companies such as SONY, Panasonic, Mitsubishi Group, Hitachi, Toshiba, NEC, Sharp, Sanyo and others went down the drain). UPDATE APRIL 5, 2019: Turn off the VSA display after clearing all codes (neutralization/VSA recalibration), short the SCS line through the tablet and follow the service manual procedures (requires manual inputs via brake pedal and ignition software). This can also be done without the MS906BT by shorting 2 pins on the DLC.

Pros
  • Enjoyable
Cons
  • Legacy