For DIY car enthusiasts and home mechanics looking to step up their diagnostic game, a professional-grade car scanning tool can be a game-changer. Among the various options available, the Autel MS906TS stands out as a popular choice. Having personally used the Autel MS906TS for over four years, primarily on European vehicles, I can offer a hands-on review to help you decide if this tool is the right investment for your needs.
The Autel MS906TS is positioned as a mid-to-high-level diagnostic scanner, offering a wide range of capabilities beyond basic code reading. It’s designed to handle tasks such as advanced diagnostics, service resets, and bidirectional controls. While it doesn’t offer module coding – a feature typically reserved for more expensive, professional tools and requiring manufacturer subscriptions – it covers a broad spectrum of diagnostic needs for DIYers. Initially purchased for around $1300, its value lies in its comprehensive functionality for tackling complex car issues.
My experience with the MS906TS has been primarily focused on European brands, including BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Range Rover. Across these makes, the tool has consistently delivered on its promises. For Mercedes-Benz, it proved invaluable in diagnosing and resolving issues with air suspension systems, NOx sensors, and DEF (Diesel Exhaust Fluid) heaters, among other general maintenance tasks. On BMWs, its main utility was for simpler tasks like resetting maintenance lights and assisting with brake jobs. When it comes to Range Rovers, the scanner has been crucial in diagnosing DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) problems, performing throttle body relearns, and activating solenoids to pinpoint emissions-related fault codes.
One of the most significant advantages of the Autel MS906TS is its live data and graphing capabilities. These features have proven indispensable in understanding complex faults by allowing real-time monitoring of sensor data and system parameters. Visualizing data trends through graphs makes it significantly easier to identify intermittent issues and pinpoint the root cause of problems.
However, like any tool, the MS906TS has its drawbacks. Firstly, the cost of updates is considerable. While the initial purchase includes a period of updates (in my case, two years), renewing this subscription can cost a significant portion of the original tool price – roughly half to two-thirds. This cost factor should be considered, especially if you work on newer vehicles and require the latest software and vehicle coverage. Secondly, the tool lacks comprehensive instructions. Navigating its functions can sometimes be a process of trial and error, as each car manufacturer’s diagnostic interface within the tool can differ significantly. While this can be frustrating initially, it’s important to recognize that this variability is often due to the car manufacturers’ systems themselves, rather than a limitation of the Autel tool. Despite these points, the physical tool itself has proven durable, with excellent battery life and consistent speed over years of use.
In conclusion, the Autel MS906TS is a robust and capable car scanning tool, particularly well-suited for DIY mechanics working on European vehicles. Its extensive diagnostic functions, live data, and graphing capabilities offer significant advantages in diagnosing and repairing complex car issues. While the cost of updates and the learning curve due to lack of instructions are factors to consider, the tool’s overall performance and reliability make it a worthwhile investment for serious DIYers seeking a professional-grade scanning solution, provided module coding is not a primary requirement.
