Product Description

The MaxiScan code reader supports all OBD2 protocols, including the newly released Controller Area Network (CAN) protocol. Though it is small, it is able to retrieve same information as large expensive scanners. This code reader reviews the emission readiness status of OBD monitors and determines the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) status as well as turns off check engine light. It comes with free CD software with over 7000 DTC definitions and is powered via detachable OBD2 cable.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #40 in Automotive
• Size: Small
• Color: Red
• Brand: Autel
• Model: MS300

Features

• Retrieves generic and manufacturer specific Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC), includes definitions lookup software on CD and displays DTC definitions on screen
• Features an easy-to-read backlit LCD screen, multilingual menu and DTC definitions and standard 16-pin OBD-II connector; no additional cables are needed
• Retrieves VIN (Vehicle Identification No) on 2002 and newer vehicles that support Mode 9; powered by cars electrical system, so no batteries required
• Supports the CAN (Controller Area Network) protols and all other current OBD-II protocols
• Works with all OBD-II compliant U.S., European and Asian vehicles (OBD-II is standard on all cars sold in U.S. post-1996)

Amazon.com Product Description
The MaxiScan MS300 CAN OBD-II Code Reader provides auto enthusiasts and do-it-yourselfers with an easy, portable and economic way to check Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) and their definitions for OBD-II compliant vehicles. OBD-II is the second generation of onboard diagnostics and has been a mandatory requirement for all vehicles sold in the US since 1996, both domestic and imports. The MS300 supports all current OBD-II protocols--communications between your car's components and systems--including the newly released Controller Area Network (CAN) protocol. The included CD containing 7,000 DTC definitions allows you to troubleshoot a wide variety of generic, manufacturer-specific and pending trouble codes, and drawing power from your car's own electrical system the unit does not require batteries or an AC adapter. Simply plug it in via its standard 16-pin OBD-II connector at the first sign of trouble and start diagnosing, regardless of your post-1996 car's make or model.

Complete Features:

• Works with all 1996 and later OBD-II compliant US, European and Asian vehicles
• Reads and clears generic and manufacturer specific Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) and turns off check engine light
• Supports multiple trouble code requests: generic codes, pending codes and manufacturer specific codes
• Supports CAN (Controller Area Network) and all other current OBD-II protocols
• Reviews the emission readiness status of OBD monitors
• Determines the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) status
• Retrieves VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) on 2002 and newer vehicles that support Mode 9
• Utilizes standard 16-pin OBD-II connector meaning no additional connectors or cables are necessary
• Includes CD software with over 7000 DTC definitions
• No batteries required: Unit is powered via detachable OBD-II cable
• Retrieves vehicle information (VIN, CIN and CVN)
• Display: Backlit LCD, 2-line, 8 characters
• Dimensions: length 113 mm/44", width 74 mm/29", height 21mm/083"
• Weight: 027Kg/050lb

Customer Reviews

Inexpensive & gets the job done
I purchased this because my car failed an inspection due to a DTC for the catalytic converter. Rather than dropping the +$200 the mechanic wanted, I bought this and was able to reset the codes. Then I drove around until the reader said that all the eleven OBD II Readiness Monitors (or I/M Monitors) defined by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) were ready. Viola - it passed inspection.

The reader does have all the bells and whistle such as telling the description of the DTC codes, but it does have the generic ones in the back of the manual & there is software on the CD which I didn't need but looks like it includes a list of manufactures DTC's in addition the generic.

The support site is: http://www.auteltech.com/supports.htm & there is download there for the software as well.

Excellent tool, manual needs some editing (see note below)
First of all, I must state that the scan tool worked well for my cars. Once connected it will:

- display diagnostic codes
- erase ALL codes
- retrieve I/M readiness status
- display the VIN number on 2002 or newer vehicles
- rescan

The MS300 supports the OBD II or OBD2 (On-Board-Diagnostics II) system and it understands all OBD2 protocols that a car may use: PWM, VPW, KWP2000, ISO9041, EKWP2000 or CAN. Once the proper protocol is detected, the MS300 is ready to display whatever Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC) the car computer's memory may be holding.

It should be noted that:

# it only retrieves codes already stored in the computer
# it does NOT provide any 'real-time' monitoring
# it is completely stand-alone and no Web-updates are possible
# it does not have printing capabilities
# it is powered through the car's own DLC (Data Link Connector)

The manual while not completely accurate does offer sufficient information to successfully connect and operate the device. It also includes a printed list of over 1000 generic Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC) definitions. 8000 more manufacturer specific DTCs can be found on the CD with more information at the company's own Web site.

In my case, I was able to diagnose within minutes the source for the 'Service Engine Soon' warning on my dashboard:

P0442 - EVAP Emission Control System Leak (Small)

I erased the codes and, if the warning reappears, I will know EXACTLY what to tell the technicians.

Given that I purchased this during one of Amazon's lightning deals, the price was right and I feel that I am getting a lot of value out of this little tool. The manual's small shortcomings do not compel me to subtract a star so, it's a 5-star device for me. I am happy I ordered it.

_________________________________________

Note: Sep. 1, 2009

It does NOT work on a Honda Insight 2010. No matter how many times I try, all I get is a 'LINK ERROR'.

Does the job. Don't let the instruction manual fool you.
I thought I had a bad unit with LINK ERROR on two different cars. You will never see the MAXISCAN MS300 display on the LCD, as described in the manual. Here are the real steps to follow:

1. With the ignition off plug it in. I immediately saw CAN OBD2 on the LCD.
2. Turn the ignition switch to the ON position. This is the position just before you crank the starter. Do not start the vehicle.
3. Then press the ENTER button on the reader which starts the scan.
4. Use the SCROLL button on the reader to view the results.

This is a handy tool, but almost any auto parts store will do a free code scan for you (Auto Zone, O'Reilly, Champion...), so that might be a cheaper way to go if you don't expect to use it much. An auto repair shop can charge you $100 or more to do the same, depending on where you are in the country.

The manufacturers website http://www.auteltech.com/index.htm and manual appear to be done by a novice "Chinese to English" transalator, so can be cryptic as best and totally misleading at worst.

Note that just resetting the code will not let you pass inspection. The sensors have to return a ready/OK code for the emissions test. It takes driving several miles for the sensors to retest and get back to the ready/OK status.