Autel MS609TS

[SuzukiGS750EZ]

Autel MS906TS

Hey guys. Is JB tools a good place to buy an autel unit? What CAN'T this unit do that the more expensive units can? Can I get anything better NEW in the $1,500 range? I work on all makes and models, nothing specific. I want bi directional capabilities as well (obviously).

 

[richfinn]

https://www.autel.com/diagnostictools

 

[SuzukiGS750EZ]

https://www.autel.com/diagnostictools

I've been there, that doesn't help much...

 

[richfinn]

Is it the 906ts your looking at?

 

[SuzukiGS750EZ]

Is it the 906ts your looking at?

Yes. I'm just curious what it can do, bi directional wise, commanding things and whatever else they don't really "explain" on there. I've only used snap on units and there were the shop owners.

 

[PMT314]

The level of functionality differs drastically between manufacturers. I will say that from what I’ve seen first hand, they do have a wealth of functionality on euro vehicles (specifically VW).
With that being said, Autel software does have a feature they call the “function viewer” that tells you all of the functionalities based on specific year/make/model. The unfortunate part is I don’t now how you can access this database of information without the actual unit.

 

[richfinn]

Yes. I'm just curious what it can do, bi directional wise, commanding things and whatever else they don't really "explain" on there. I've only used snap on units and there were the shop owners.

You mixed the number up in the thread title

 

[SuzukiGS750EZ]

You mixed the number up in the thread title

I'm just not doing good these last few days lol

 

[SuzukiGS750EZ]

The level of functionality differs drastically between manufacturers. I will say that from what I’ve seen first hand, they do have a wealth of functionality on euro vehicles (specifically VW).
With that being said, Autel software does have a feature they call the “function viewer” that tells you all of the functionalities based on specific year/make/model. The unfortunate part is I don’t now how you can access this database of information without the actual unit.

How does the launch x431 (whatever model x431) compare?

 

[Lassen Forge]

I've used both the Modis and the 906, and depending on the vehicle, the Autel is fine for most stuff. You still have to keep your software updated, and have all the interface cables.

 

[2ndGearRubber]

Autel is like a snap on tool, with more stuff and good euro.


I can't remember a time where my modis had something my autel didn't.

 

[SuzukiGS750EZ]

Autel is like a snap on tool, with more stuff and good euro.


I can't remember a time where my modis had something my autel didn't.

Can the 906 change pcm vin # and program modules and such? Keys/ fobs?

 

[2ndGearRubber]

Can the 906 change pcm vin # and program modules and such? Keys/ fobs?

It can learn Fobs; key programing/cutting is a different story. PCM vin writing is a programing level thing, you'd need a J-box and a subscription to the OEM. I can't think of any PCM you can just write a VIN for. It can initialize modules, and relearn adaptive behaviors. It's not going to program a new BCM.

 

[SuzukiGS750EZ]

It can learn Fobs; key programing/cutting is a different story. PCM vin writing is a programing level thing, you'd need a J-box and a subscription to the OEM. I can't think of any PCM you can just write a VIN for. It can initialize modules, and relearn adaptive behaviors. It's not going to program a new BCM.

So its worth the money? The next one up is $3k. It'll probably drive the car lol. I don't need something I can mess up the car with, I've never used a tool at that level.

 

[SuzukiGS750EZ]

Updates look expensive? Do you pay a year subscription or are updates paid update by update?

 

[tvl]

In reference to your question regarding JB Tools, I have ordered from these folks 3 times in the past 5 weeks …...…. fast shipping and all items came well packaged.

One of the items I ordered was the Autel MS906BT. I have had no issues with the scan tool or with registration & updating!

Hope this is helpful!

PS: You're not required to update the unit each year and the unit will continue to operate normally. Of course, if you need to keep up with newer auto models each year, then a yearly update is a must. For me, the unit is for home use only. Unless, I replace or purchase a newer auto, I will only perform updates as needed.

 

[2ndGearRubber]

So its worth the money? The next one up is $3k. It'll probably drive the car lol. I don't need something I can mess up the car with, I've never used a tool at that level.

Yup, I feel it is. I make a living with mine.


Unless you need to do programming, which is relatively rare. Cost/occurrence means I don't do programming, not worth the cost outlay. It sees a dozen cars a week for various issues. Outside of programing, I can't see any way a scan tool could "mess up" a car.


It's 600 for a year worth of updates, so for 1 calendar year from your purchase date, you get all available updates. If you skip update, or lapse, no penalty, the tool works as it always has. Aside from a pop-up window saying "your updates expired".

 

[SuzukiGS750EZ]

Yup, I feel it is. I make a living with mine.





Unless you need to do programming, which is relatively rare. Cost/occurrence means I don't do programming, not worth the cost outlay. It sees a dozen cars a week for various issues. Outside of programing, I can't see any way a scan tool could "mess up" a car.





It's 600 for a year worth of updates, so for 1 calendar year from your purchase date, you get all available updates. If you skip update, or lapse, no penalty, the tool works as it always has. Aside from a pop-up window saying "your updates expired".

So is it 600 a year as a subscription or say one update every 2 months at 100 a pop? Are the updates worth $600...

And what are the odds I buy this 906ts & they come out with a newer or upgraded model?

 

[tvl]

So is it 600 a year as a subscription or say one update every 2 months at 100 a pop? Are the updates worth $600...

And what are the odds I buy this 906ts & they come out with a newer or upgraded model?

I'll chime in for now: It's a yearly subscription ……… ONE time each year

FYI: I have found where you can get the update subscription at a discounted price or $442 - however, that is for the MS906BT

 

[pbon]

If you skip 5 years of updates and then want an update do you have to pay for 5 updates or just one?

 

[tvl]

W

Do these models get replaced often?

I'll have to plead ignorant on this one!

However, I did contact Autel before purchasing my 906BT in January and ask if they knew if the 906 series was "flagged" to be discontinued in the near future. The rep simply replied he did not know of any replacements, but he also implied they were normally kept in the dark regarding such matters. He did state that he had heard rumors that Autel was going to introduce a new model later this year, but nothing more!

On the other hand, whether they discontinue the 906 series or not, the unit will continue to function and I would assume they would still support software updates for some period of time. FWIW: I'm really not worried about the 906 being replaced or discontinued as I believe I will still get very good use out of it!

 

[tvl]

If you skip 5 years of updates and then want an update do you have to pay for 5 updates or just one?

I do know the answer to this one: In your scenario, 5 years later you will purchase a ONE year subscription and that will then bring you up to date!!!!

 

[SuzukiGS750EZ]

Re: W

I'll have to plead ignorant on this one!



However, I did contact Autel before purchasing my 906BT in January and ask if they knew if the 906 series was "flagged" to be discontinued in the near future. The rep simply replied he did not know of any replacements, but he also implied they were normally kept in the dark regarding such matters. He did state that he had heard rumors that Autel was going to introduce a new model later this year, but nothing more!



On the other hand, whether they discontinue the 906 series or not, the unit will continue to function and I would assume they would still support software updates for some period of time. FWIW: I'm really not worried about the 906 being replaced or discontinued as I believe I will still get very good use out of it!

It's my luck that I always buy a new piece of technology and the next one has that ONE thing that makes it a better value lol.

 

[tvl]

So if I can get the 906ts for 1500 and pay next year for updates, it's $2100. The elite is 2500 with two years of updates. But realistically, the 906ts does what I need, the elite looks like it connects to more European modules? Decisions decisions... ugh.

But do remember ONE thing: the higher the model number (or the more advanced the unit), the higher the price of yearly updates!

 

[Lassen Forge]

The subscriptions get updated roughly annually.

Bottom line - Yes, it's worth the money. You won't be sorry.

 

[SuzukiGS750EZ]

Oh also, does it come with support for all models or do you need to purchase each model?

 

[toddmorr]

I do know the answer to this one: In your scenario, 5 years later you will purchase a ONE year subscription and that will then bring you up to date!!!!

interesting. I guess Autel knows it's business, but that's a significant disincentive to buying an update. Unless you're working on a lot of 1 yr old cars, just wait a few years to buy an update. Would think they'd be better off pricing the update a lot lower to encourage annual updates, and thus capture the pure profit of an update........but whatever.

 

[Showkey]

AUTEL updates are very dependent on where you purchase.
Some sellers include “updates for life”.
Some sellers offer no updates as they secondary market sellers or counterfeit.

As for discontinued models AUTEL literally as 100’s of models.......with a lot of overlap in capability.

Updates, if your DIY guy on several vehicles that are several years old.......once the tool works.........there are few reasons to update.
If your making a living with the tool .........you need updates.

If your not an experienced high level technician..........then buying a high level expensive tool is a mistake at this point. Learn to read and interpret live data stream....learn good data values from bad values is far more important skill than bidirectional communication tool.

 

[2ndGearRubber]

interesting. I guess Autel knows it's business, but that's a significant disincentive to buying an update. Unless you're working on a lot of 1 yr old cars, just wait a few years to buy an update. Would think they'd be better off pricing the update a lot lower to encourage annual updates, and thus capture the pure profit of an update........but whatever.

I think it's brilliant. I update every other year, and stay "current" in the aftermarket world.

 

[2ndGearRubber]

https://www.aeswave.com/images/products/20330.png

If you gotta have programing, then the elite is better. IMO outside a high-volume diagnostic shop, programming/flashing modules is a waste of money. Huge waste for DIY.

A 906ts to an elite 908 is 2 grand.

 

[SuzukiGS750EZ]

Jb tools has the maxisys elite at $2,600, $1,100 more than the ms906ts. That's why I'm curious if it's worth the extra money up front.

 

[Lassen Forge]

Re: Autel MS906TS

https://www.aeswave.com/images/products/20330.png

If you gotta have programing, then the elite is better. IMO outside a high-volume diagnostic shop, programming/flashing modules is a waste of money. Huge waste for DIY.

A 906ts to an elite 908 is 2 grand.

Second Gear is on the money. IF you plan on flashing modules, or you plan on doing so in the future, then go with the elite. For what we do the 906 works fine, and for what we do it's not worth it - you'll have to assess the depth you want to go to and if what you plan on doing is worth the extra $$

Of course, if you have money burning a hole in your pocket, you could get the elite and show it off here, making all of us (who aren't Autel-adverse) drool.

 

[SuzukiGS750EZ]

I just wanted to update you guys.... I made the purchase...

I originally ordered a MK908 but soon realized it's not supported by autel in the US. So i decided to go with the MS906TS since it does do ADAS as well as TPMS. I figured i'd future proof myself a bit. It is a US model as well, so i have support from autel in New York. Hopefully it serves me well and is money well spent. I decided against the elite since i don't want to have to subscribe to each manufacturer to code. So that was out of the quiestion. The 906TS seemed to be the only model that fit my budget and requirements. I've done so much research in the past few days i think i could sell the things for a living.....

 

[enrare]

Anyone know what capabilities the Autel units have for Dodge Cummins application? I looked into purchasing a scan tool several years back and at that time from what I remember the scan tools had limited abilities for anything related to the Cummins engine. Dodge and Cummins pretty much had access to the ECM locked down to only dealership level scan tool. Maybe something has changed

 

[Showkey]

Don’t know about Cummins .......but........AUTEL does a very good job on Mercedes diesel in both Dodge and MB products like Sprinters. ( Many scan tools do not speak Mercedes specific codes and only show a very limited OBDII data stream and generic codes)

 

[Rated ///M]

I can't clear engine codes on my 18 Cummins 2500.

I have the 908 and love it!

 

[SuzukiGS750EZ]

Re: Autel MS906TS

It'll be here today, I guess I'll see how much I like it! I've already got a list of things to do lol

 

[SuzukiGS750EZ]

Re: Autel MS906TS

Love the tool. Already done a bunch with it.