Autel scanners reign supreme in the world of vehicle diagnostics. Why, you may ask? They come from a reputed manufacturing company that’s known for making quality products.
Autel scan tools allow you to check for basic and advanced issues and can inspect almost all vehicle systems, depending on the Autel diagnostic scanner you have.
Best Autel scanners reviews
| Product Name | Product Image | Editor's Picks | Our Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Autel AutoLink AL319 |  | Best Overall | 9.5/10 |
| Autel AutoLink AL619 |  | Runner Up | 9.5/10 |
| Autel MaxiLink ML619 |  | Great Pick | 9/10 |
| Autel MaxiScan MS300 |  | Best Budget Buy | 9/10 |
| Autel MaxiPRO MP808S Pro |  | Best for Professionals | 8.5/10 |
The most important thing is for you to buy the right scan tool for all your needs. With that in mind, we created the table above showing our top picks to help you choose the best Autel scan tool for you.
So, without further ado, let’s have a look at some of the best Autel code readers and scan tools on the market:
Autel AutoLink AL319 OBD2 scanner
The Autel AL319 is a well-balanced Autel scanner that can carry out basic functionalities.
This Autel code reader is affordable and covers a wide range of vehicles.
Features
Common features: The AutoLink AL319 can check and reset engine light codes, display I/M Readiness Status, live sensor data, show live PCM data, freeze frame data, etc.
Apart from this, it can also auto-detect your vehicle’s identification information using the VIN feature.
DTC definitions: This Autel scan tool can pick up both generic (P0, P2, P3, U0) and manufacturer specific codes (P1, P3, and U1).
This feature makes it easier for you to understand codes as it tells you about the problem in simple words. This makes it easy to interpret the output.
Visual and audible indications: The Autel AL319 has LEDs and a built-in speaker that flashes and beeps when the system detects a fault.
Vehicle coverage
The Autel AutoLink AL319 covers all OBD2 compliant vehicle models manufactured in 1996 and later. It also supports CAN and EOBD compliant vehicles.
Verdict
The Autel AutoLink AL319 OBD2 scanner is a good choice for DIYers who want a simple scan tool or code reader to cater to basic issues. The AL319 does not offer advanced features.
Pros
- Free updates forever.
- 1-year warranty.
- Lightweight.
- Offers audible and visual indication for car I/M readiness checks.
Cons
- Extremely short cord.
Autel AutoLink AL619 OBD2 diagnostic scanner
The Autel AL619 is another excellent tool for people who may often encounter ABS/SRS issues. It provides a number of common features that will keep your car in good condition.
Features
Common features: The Autel AL619 can read/reset engine light codes, read live data, freeze frame data, O2 sensor/EVAP test, etc. It can also pick up a vehicle’s identification information automatically.
ABS/SRS: This scan tool will read ABS related codes and tell you what the problem is. Moreover, it can also find SRS related issues such as loose doors, poorly looked seatbelts, damaged sensors, etc.
DTC lookup: This Autel scanner provides a DTC feature which you can use to see code definitions and find out where the problem is.
Vehicle coverage
The Autel AL619 covers all OBD2 compliant vehicles that were manufactured from 1996 onwards, including Asian, domestic, and European brands.
Some of the supported vehicles include Chrysler, Volvo, VW, Renault, Land Rover, Subaru, Mitsubishi, Peugeot, BMW, GM, Ford, Mercedes, Nissan, Citroen, Fiat, Jaguar, Hyundai, Kia, Toyota, and Honda.
It supports CAN models as well.
Verdict
The Autel AutoLink AL619 OBD2 diagnostic scanner is ideal for both beginners and DIYers. It will help diagnose basic problems in your car and ABS/SRS issues as well.
Pros
- Lifetime free updates.
- Prints data through a computer.
- Supports mode 6.
- Offers ABS/SRS in more than 50 vehicle brands.
Cons
- Doesn’t support hybrid cars.
Autel MaxiLink ML619 OBD2 scanner
The Autel ML619 is a more advanced scan tool and can handle both manufacturer and generic codes, and even comes with a 16GB memory card to store data.
Features
Common features: This Autel code reader can read and clear engine light codes and playback data as well. Apart from that, this scan tool will read live data, freeze frame data, and check I/M readiness as well.
Anti-lock braking system: This Autel diagnostic scanner will find sensor faults, wiring damages, and other problems in the ABS. You can reset the code after fixing the problem.
SRS: This scanner can also read and clear airbag related codes.
Code definitions: You can use this feature to understand what a code means. This removes the need to go online and search for a code as explanations are given in simple English.
Vehicle coverage
The Autel ML619 supports all OBD2 compliant vehicles made during 1996 and later. Some of the supported brands include Mitsubishi, Rover, Ford, GM, Honda, Holden, Acura, FIAT, Audi, and Nissan.
The Autel MaxiLink ML619 supports CAN models, too.
Verdict
The Autel MaxiLink ML619 OBD2 scanner is a great option for DIYers looking for a scanner to solve ABS and SRS related issues, as well as perform all the more basic functionalities.
Pros
- Free updates.
- LED lights for a quick understanding of results.
- Shows graphical data.
- Supports all 10 OBD2 test modes.
Cons
- Doesn’t read live ABS sensor data.
Autel MaxiScan MS300 OBD2 scan tool
If you are a beginner and feel overwhelmed by too many buttons and features on a scanner, then the Autel MaxiScan MS300 is just the tool for you. It has a simple 2-button design with limited functions that are commonly used.
Features
Read Check Engine Light: the Autel MS300 will read all sorts of engine light codes and erase them once the issue is fixed.
DTC: The highlight of this scanner is that it holds about 7,000 code definitions. You will have no problem in understanding what the problem is.
Easy to use: The scanner has two buttons: one to select and one to scroll.
It serves as a great tool for beginners since it is very easy to operate.
Vehicle coverage
It supports all OBD2 cars manufactured in 1996 and later.
Verdict
The Autel MaxiScan MS300 OBD2 scan tool is a great pick for beginners looking for a diagnostic tool that is easy to use.
Pros
- The cable is super durable and doesn’t bend or break easily.
- Supports all OBD2 protocols including CAN.
- Palm-friendly scan tool.
- Supports auto-VIN in vehicles made from 2002 onwards.
Cons
- Doesn’t support ABS/SRS code reading.
Autel MaxiPRO MP808S Pro OBD2 diagnostic scan tool
This Autel MaxiPRO MP808S Pro diagnostic scanner is an advanced scan tool that offers a blend of both basic and advanced features. You can also use it wirelessly without any trouble.
Features
Common features: The MP808S Pro scan tool offers all the basic features you would expect, such as CEL codes, freeze frame data, auto-VIN, etc. and even has a one-click auto-scan feature which scans all vehicle systems with just a single touch.
ABS/SRS: The tool can read and reset ABS/SRS light. Both these systems are crucial for safety. ABS prevents accidents while SRS (airbags, seatbelts etc.) prevents passengers from getting injured in the case of accidents.
SAS: Thanks to this feature, the Autel MP808S Pro can detect problems in the steering angle sensor system of your car and is also able to reset the SAS light once the issue has been resolved.
DPF: The Autel MP808S Pro scanner can identify soot buildup in the exhaust and other issues found in the DPF.
EPB: It can also diagnose issues in the electronic parking brake system.
TPMS: This advanced scan tool can also monitor tire pressure related issues and reads related codes.
Key programming: With this feature, you can create and program a unique key to successfully turn on the car’s ignition.
Oil reset: It will read and reset oil light after the oil is replaced.
Cloud-based report management system: The Autel MaxiPRO MP808S Pro comes with an extensive cloud-based management system that stores, inputs, arranges, and shows data, reports, and codes.
Bidirectional control (active testing): This advanced scan tool can also perform bidirectional control or active testing, which allows you to take control of various electronic vehicle components and actuators in a vehicle directly from the scanner itself, without having to manually test components on the vehicle to diagnose problems, thus saving a lot of time when trying to diagnose issues or when troubleshooting.
ECU coding: The Autel MaxiPRO MP808S Pro has the ability to perform ECU coding, which is a very advanced function not found on many scan tools in this price range. ECU coding allows you to reprogram the ECU to customize various features and functions on your car, including anything from changing the brightness of the foglamps, to removing speed limiters and enabling/disabling the stop/start function on your vehicle. This is not a feature for beginners at all.
Vehicle coverage
This Autel scanner supports more than 150 vehicle brands from the US, Asia, and Europe for vehicles made in 1996 and later. It even comes with 11 different adapters so it will work with vehicles that many other OBD2 scanners won’t, and to ensure compatibility with as many vehicles as possible.
Verdict
The Autel MaxiPRO MP808S Pro OBD2 diagnostic tool is an advanced and reliable car diagnostic tool that offers many advanced and basic features. It is ideal for professionals, enthusiasts and mechanics.
Pros
- 1 year warranty.
- 2 years free updates.
- Auto detects car information.
- Includes advanced features such as bidirectional control (active testing) and ECU coding.
- Compatible with over 150 vehicle brands – includes 11 adapters to ensure compatibility with as many vehicles as possible.
- Supports diesel models too.
Cons
- Quite pricey – but worth it if you are looking for a very comprehensive scan tool!
Autel AutoLink AL519 diagnostic scan tool
The Autel AL519 supports all 10 modes of OBD2 and is a good fit for DIYers and enthusiasts.
Features
Basic features: The Autel AutoLink AL519 can read and erase engine light codes. It will show live data on the screen and can also pick up a car’s information through auto-VIN.
Apart from that, it can check and perform I/M readiness, freeze frame data, O2, and EVAP test.
DTC library: This feature makes it useful for new users. It contains an extensive library of codes that will tell you what a specific code means.
Vehicle coverage
It supports all cars manufactured in 1996 and later that are OBDII / OBD2 or CAN compliant.
Verdict
The Autel AutoLink AL519 diagnostic scan tool is a good pick for beginners and DIY users who want to save time. It is among the fastest Autel scan tools out there in this price range.
Pros
- The 6 feet long cord offers convenience and ease of use.
- Shows data in graphical form for easy understanding.
- The device is super fast and doesn’t freeze.
- Only takes 10 seconds to boot up.
Cons
- Some users have reported difficulties with updating the scanner with the latest software.
Autel MaxiLink ML529 OBD2 code reader
The specialty of the Autel MaxiLink ML529 is that it supports both OBD2 mode 10 and mode 6. This means that this tool covers almost all the basic features a scanner can offer.
Features
Full 10 OBD2 modes: This Autel diagnostic scanner supports all 10 OBDII / OBD2 modes.
It allows you to request powertrain data, freeze frame data, emission related data, oxygen sensor data, on-board monitoring data, driving cycles, and vehicle information.
In addition, it also allows you to perform a few basic resets, which is not common on most entry level code readers.
CEL read/reset: It can take care of basic engine light codes by reading and resetting them.
Auto VIN: Thanks to this feature, the scan tool will identify manufacturer specific codes and automatically pick up vehicle identification data.
Vehicle coverage
The Autel MaxiLink ML529 supports all OBD2 compliant vehicles that were manufactured in 1996 and later.
Moreover, it supports all the major OBD2 protocols.
Verdict
This Autel MaxiLink ML529 OBD2 code reader is a basic Autel scanner for beginners who want to sort out small issues in the engine module of their vehicles. It’s easy to use and quite affordable as well.
Pros
- Shows advanced codes in the powertrain system (Ford, Chrysler and GM cars only).
- Supports DTC lookup.
- The cord is long enough to sit in the driver’s seat and operate the scanner.
- Shows live data.
Cons
- Doesn’t support ABS/SRS.
Autel MaxiCheck Pro OBD2 scanner
The Autel MaxiCheck Pro scan tool is an advanced scan tool that provides many features. It is easy to use and can cater to almost all your car problems.
Features
Common features: It offers a bunch of basic features such as CEL read/reset, freeze frame data, DTC, and I/M readiness, pretty much all the basic features you could expect.
ABS/SRS: The Autel Maxicheck Pro will not only read ABS/SRS related codes and reset them, but can even perform ABS brake bIeeding, which is not a feature you often find on a scan tool in this price range – usually, you would have to pay a lot more for this feature.
Oil reset: This OBD2 tool can read the oil light and help you reset and get rid of it after you change the oil.
EPB: You can read and clear EPB related codes such as component malfunction, sensor damage, etc.
DPF: The Autel MaxiCheck pro can also diagnose the DPF system and help you find the root cause of the problem. A faulty DPF can pollute the environment and damage the engine.
Battery reset: You will also be able to perform a battery reset after you install a new one with this scan tool.
Vehicle coverage
The Autel MaxiCheck Pro scan tool supports all OBD2 compliant vehicles manufactured in 1996 and later.
Verdict
The Autel MaxiCheck Pro OBD2 scanner is suitable for advanced DIYers, mechanics and professionals who want to find complex issues in their vehicles. It supports many advanced features and is quite quick as well.
Pros
- You can store diagnosis data by installing an SD card into the scanner.
- Updating the device is free (From the PC).
- 1-year warranty.
- EBC (Electronic Brake Caliper) and SBC (Sensotronic Brake Control) features are supported.
Cons
- The body is not the most durable.
Autel MaxiAP AP2500 Bluetooth OBD2 code reader
If you’re looking for a scanner with advanced capabilities at a really fair price, then the Autel MaxiAP AP2500 Bluetooth scan tool is an excellent choice.
Features
Common features: I/M readiness, active component test, graphical data, O2, and EVAP test are supported by this scanner.
TPMS reset: Poor tire pressure can lead to accidents and that is never what you want. With the Autel AP2500, you can monitor tire pressure to ensure safety.
Diesel particulate filter: Issues in the DPF system can affect the car’s emission pattern. This scanner will read DPF related codes and tell you where the problem lies.
EPB reset: The EPB system ensures your vehicle remains stationary when parked, especially on slopes. The problem with this system can be deadly as your car may move and cause accidents while parked.
With the AP2500, you can catch faults in the EPB system and reset the code as well.
ABS/SRS: The scanner can read and clear both ABS/SRS related codes.
BMS reset: Nowadays, you unfortunately can’t use a new battery without registering / resetting it. The Autel AP2500 lets you do this, making it possible to change your vehicle’s battery on your own.
Vehicle coverage
This diagnostic tool covers all OBD2 compliant American, European, and Asian vehicles that were manufactured in 1996 and later.
Verdict
The Autel MaxiAP AP2500 OBD2 code reader is ideal for nearly all car owners ands it offers a large number of advanced and basic features.
Pros
- Works wirelessly (Bluetooth supported).
- Updates are free.
- Auto detects manufacturer specific codes.
- 1-year warranty.
Cons
- An additional amount of $21.99 needs to be paid for use in another vehicle – only 1 vehicle per device / app.
Recommendation: Top 3 Autel scan tools
Our top pick is the Autel AutoLink AL319 because it can reset Check Engine Light and is easy to use. It offers a wide DTC library and shows both audible and visual indicators during alerts.
The next pick would be the Autel AutoLink AL519 which is very easy to use. It has wide vehicle compatibility that works on almost all vehicles manufactured in 1996 and later. Furthermore, the Autel AL519 supports all 10 modes of OBD2 test for a complete diagnosis.
Lastly, the Autel Maxilink ML619 is for users who want to perform basic functions and deal with ABS/SRS related problems.
Final thoughts
These were the best Autel scanners that we can find on the market today. Make sure to pick an Autel scan tool that works with your car and offers all the features that you need.