Autel MaxiScan MS509 Review

Autel MaxiScan MS509 Best handheld I've seen
I have been pleasantly surprised with this tool. I have used the $1000 scanners and didn't get as much data from them. If this lasts as long as it's expensive counterparts, every diagnostic/drivability mechanic in the country should have one.


Autel MaxiScan MS509 good scanner
i have ford 2007 cr. victoria and 2006 bmw x5
this scanner help me find cods and
fix my car.i save a lote of money.

Autel MaxiScan MS509  Works Great Initial Thoughts. Very Promising!
I am reviewing the Autel MaxiScan MS509. I had done a considerable amount of research on ODB-II scan tools. The big consideration was do I look simply for a code reader and reset device OR do I look for a real-time diagnostic tool. I had no less than six different models from various manufacturers on my "short" list. Previously in the automotive repair industry I was familiar with the protocols with OBD scan tool devices. I spent time reading Amazon reviews, OBD forum sites, youtube etc. [I went through a lot of Visine from staring at the PC monitor for extended periods!]. I went with this model largely on credible reviews, features and price. Amazon's price is respectable but if you dig into the issue you will be able to find one thru an importer. I got mine direct from where they are made overseas [$60].
I just received it and these are my initial impressions: Good heft and build quality, feels like a real "professional" grade tool, came with all the accessories you should need except 9V battery. I hooked it up to my wife's '99 Jeep GC which is supported by SAE J1850 protocol and was able to quickly navigate the tool set up and DTC scan/test options. The live data stream mapping is a great feature. I will be trying it out on my '09 Dodge Ram which is CAN supported and should get even more information from that protocol. This spring/summer I plan on scanning as many of my friends and neighbors cars that I can to get proficient with it. I will make occasional updates as I work with this tool. I know some folks have had issue with specific scan tools, the only bad thing about reading too many reviews is that after awhile one goes into "information overload" and you have a hard time making a decision. So far I think this is a solid choice, I'm not saying there are not better choices so don't get all wound up if you disagree with me. Tech. has come a long way from 10 years ago which was the last time I used a shop-owned scanner that my employeer paid $4500. for! It was a Snap-Off brand and at the time thats what they were all going for, all the updates were with plug in modules [$100 plus each!] that you had to buy from the traveling tool rep. Now updates are via the internet and usually free or low cost. That eliminates the middle-man and his mark up but it reduces good customer service since you are dealing with a corporation five states away that does not give a rat's A@@ about you [usually]. I can't speak to Autel's customer service yet, but I did send them an email yesterday requesting information on the latest firmware updates available....we will see what the outcome is. If anyone wants any other [specific] information I will do my best to answer.

Autel MS509 Best Price
I am a retired automotive tech and shop owner, as well as a 35 year FAA Aircraft Airframe and Powerplant mechanic (as well as FAA Maintenance Inspector), so I pretty much know which end of a wrench to grab, and have seen a lot of technology.

I needed a graphing scanner to find a problem that freeze-frame data just wasn't picking up, so despite having several other scan-tools, I decided to try an Autel MS-509.

I must say that I am AMAZED! This thing has exceeded my wildest expectations in spades!

I have a 2001 Volvo that was suffering from severe surge and hesitation, and NOTHING would pin down the problem, including the dealership's many-thousand-dollar VIDA computer system. Volvo recommended replacing the coil packs, the plugs, and the MAF sensor just to narrow down the usual suspects. Not cheap!

Hooking up the MS-509 and using the super-simple menu (very intuitive vs. other units that I must have the manual open to use), I was able to graphically depict ALL relevant parameters (PINS) and by observing them live while driving the vehicle, the cause was immediately obvious.

Needless to say, I now consider my other scanners and code-readers surplus (including two that cost considerably more, and the other that cost a multiple of the Autel unit).

I sat in total amazement holding this unit in my hand using its ability to live-chart virtually any functions I wished (among them MAF, Throttle Position, Ignition Advance, O2 Sensor Readings, RPM, and MORE).

Simply the MOST analyzer/scanner I think you can buy for (double or triple?) the price!


Autel MS509 Very useful tool.
I use it about once per month. We have a Jeep, Ford pickup and a motorhome. User interface is kind of arcane and difficult to use, that would be my only problem with this unit.