That's so true. A good scanner is great to point you in the right direction. But sometimes people think that they can just swap parts based on codes and that's bad.

Thank you very much for this video... I am a qualified mechanic and have been looking for reasons to justify a purchase like this for years, i am a qualified low level mechanic but the thing is when i got my qualifications cars back then where very simple and we had similar scan tools in our learning environment and we did touch on those subjects the thing is cars then didnt have as many control modules as they do now back then it was more of a premium feature in cars wich left me very confused and having used autodata and similar softwares when i was learning, it left me confused when it came to looking at these scan tool to buy for my own personal use Long story short i havnt bought one of these due to confusion and i only stumbled upon this video after looking at an autel product and you just removed all the doubt ive had over the years about buying a product like this Thank you so much

Thanks. Appreciate that you explained why you need a bi-directional scanner. I am taking an online class for auto electrical diagnostics and most of the videos that I see from pros on You-Tube have a bi-directional scanner and Pico scope so I am doing my research to make sure I buy something that will advance my learning.

So far, this is the best info on a scanner period. Why? You "DO" need to understand your car has systems not just switches. The use of live data and it's results are written into the diagnostic flow chart. Step 1, ck for codes XX, XX, etc. Can you communicate with the "BCM" body control. Press window down! Does scanner show down? Yes/No, Press special functions and command window down? Yes/No. Skip to step 11. Yes, a computer on four wheels, with room for the driver, 3 friends and some of your crap! This is the way they are built. People ask why. Easy!!! Parts go up, even under warranty. Labor goes up, even under warranty. How long does it take to correctly confirm the root cause? Way quicker than ever before. Remember, the cost of warranty repairs is figured into the cost of every vehicle. If you can reduce the time it takes for the new kid out of tech school to correctly fix the root cause, the manufacturer saves money, improves the customers satisfaction! Win/Win! I have been repairing vehicles since the late 60's/70's. I have been an ASE Master Tech since 78. 38+ years later, I start teaching & holding tech seminars on 30 subjects for over 100 techs in an evening for ACDelco. Now, advanced charging systems, serial data or alternative fuels. These are not your Grandfathers Chevy Pickup! These are the results of heavily regulated government restrictions placed on vehicles. What does "SAS" has to do with emissions? Nothing, except effect EPA Milage that is done by the manufacture! Yes, not the EPA($). What army of techs and equipment would that take? We are not talking "Emission's Testing" just those lucky states that require you to test for bad stuff out the tailpipe. Manufactures even wash vehicles, empty the fuel tank & washer bottles and seal them in a room for 3 days and cool / heat / then let resume air temp while monitoring vapors outside the tailpipe! This is serious because the government will not let them sell that model for that year if it fails and cannot be fixed! Besides, GM anyhow, sells the same model (Except RH drive) in 64 other countries. So, this brings us full circle back to a proper scanner. Live data as seen by the PowerTrain Module is right or 1-2 or more is wrong. Some set codes when started, tested, and fail! Other codes are stored in a snapshot (Fail-Records) on the second failure. It gets complicated quick. So, please pay attention to what he says in the video. As if you have equipment like this, you are able to figure it out once, how much did you save? They cost of the tool, perhaps! You-Bet-Cha!!! DK, ASE Master Tech since 78, retired. Building my own 56 year old pickup, but with 2003 Tahoe engine, PCM & BCM! I need a scanner also.

I bought the MS906BT last year and it’s been great. The bi-directional functionality is main reason I bought it. Meaning it can initiate tests and calibrations to clear codes.

actually on my chevy if I get out of the car and close the drivers door when it's running with the fob in my pocket it beeps the horn 4 times way faster then I ever could. Once again very nicely done and I could actually see what you were doing IM a retired master EVT tech.But the new technology is amazing

I appreciate your being so thoughtful for views that don't care for foul language. Thank you.

Lou: Great video knowledge is power. I could not agree more with your assessment of the skill sets of employees. Being a part changer is not the way a proper mechanic should work. This diagnostic tool is great when compared to a 50 dollar fault code reader. Good job Thanks and keep the videos coming I will use this as an instructional video for my staff. Joe

This is pure gold. You hit the nail on the head. If it isn't telling you what to physically do, people are lost and complain about a product being bad. Skilled labor is just that.. skilled, which in the right scenario could be priceless. Troubleshooting is a basic skill of life that I often find to be non-existent in individuals. Good troubleshooting skills will make you stand out. Just like the old parable, The Old Engineer with the Hammer, and knowing how to use the tool. Good stuff man!

Love to see more videos utilizing the MS906BT

Thanks Lou, this video gave me direction as to how to use the 906bt. I just bought this mainly to maintain my own vehicles but can help others as well. I solved my first problem by watching this video 3 times to ensure I was doing it correctly. A memory seat module on an 04 caddy cts. Thanks for the help I hope many more videos with this scanner are coming 😊

You a boss , i just bought one today and im hooked on this videos . Thank you for taking time to make videos for people that are new to this .

This kind of information is normally behind a pay wall ,i wish all the best for this channel . It's an obvious subscription from me

Awesome video! I’ve been thinking about buying one of these but couldn’t justify it since I don’t know how to use it. Looking forward to more of these videos!

You could use a different tittle to your video, Like..."If you don't know how to use a scanner, Don't buy one". I can honestly say that some domestic mechanics can afford buying a pricey scanner yet they don't know how to use it and even worse, they don't know the terminology of auto mechanics. I have worked on cars for a long time and am guilty as hell not knowing everything because I don't specialize on power train, electrical systems, suspension, etc. You have done an amazing video explaining how to operate a scanner. ME?, I just learned so much from it. THANK YOU!!!!!!!!!!

Excellent Video Lou. I was a mechanic\tech since for 45 years. Did many hours of diagnostic work the old fashioned way. I've been looking into a new scanner and considering this one. I still work with on antique vehicles as my specialty 1960's back. I laugh silently at some techs who should be listening to you, in their hands the scanner is a dangerous thing sir. Stay safe and I'll be watching to learn more and because I like the way you present the information and explanations. Thank you sir. P.S. We all still make mistakes. Lets pray they are the small non damaging variety. If I'm not SURE of what the outcome should be, I put down the wrench and go back to my manuals online. I'm past 70 and still doing repairs because I love the work and won't let technology make Me OBSOLETE.

Nice to view a video which the guy actually knows details of what he is teaching ! Thnx.

I subscribed especially because of what you said at the end of the video. I am a single Mother and I've learned to fix a few of my cars on my own. Didn't have a choice. Not going to get into the whole story. I am not an expert, but I've shocked a few people in my life. Thank you very much for sharing your knowledge. It's people like me who need it. I say that with with the most very heartful respect. God Bless.

Lou, I really appreciate your videos sir. I'm 71 and worked for most of my life as a Mechanic/Tech, either on automobiles and trucks, and finally on heavy equipment. I mostly enjoy your way of disseminating the information. Most often in simple terminology that none tech types can understand. I'm not as young as you, though we have the same hair style. I wonder if you have ever considered presenting a video explaining to the non technical types the danger of Scanners. I bought a Maxisys MK906BT for my birthday last year. I'm not dead so I still like repairing my own vehicles and the scanner has been a real joy. My point is this, I would never let my granddaughters by friend use it on his car without me right there. He's a computer wizard, but nowhere close to a auto technician. I have seen people (some who are supposed to know what they are doing) literally create more problems with a scanner than they fixed. However I have never seen any kind of cautionary guidance video anywhere. Perhaps I am mistaken, but it does concern me considering that all kinds of online shops are selling these to the general public. Have a great day and please continue to educate the folks out here. That way we won't see so many burning Audi's on the side of the highways. God Bless, and stay safe dang it.

Lou great video, you have showed more than anybody I know as far as explaining how this Autel Scanner works ,fixing to get my second scanner but it’s always good to know how damn good a scanner can be an 90 percent is the tech using it .Keep up the great videos .Hopefully Autel sees this video an gives you a big break on your next scanner or maybe free updates ,you sure sold me .

Pretty decent tool, when we first got ours I was feeling pretty disappointed and was going to return it for a refund... I gave it a second chance and I have fixed so many cars with this now. My biggest complaint is all the features are not on one menu, you really need to go down multiple menu rabbit holes to find what you want to do. 2nd complaint is the battery seems to go down quickly 3rd complaint the screen feels like cheap plastic and scratches very easily. 4th complaint cpu processing tasks takes a while.

Very helpful in becoming a tech and leaving the parts charger mentality.

You so hit the nail on the head with this video. I was looking thru the GM service manuals and saw, as you said, very few if any switches or other user electrical controls communicated directly with an end item. So, it seems that the scanner helps to see that the "code" running inside a control unit is reacting to user inputs...or not in order to command the end item. Thanks again awesome job.

Great video and advice. You covered all important aspects of the tool. thanks

There are people out there that may not know much about these scanners, but watch yours and other videos like this since they want one. They may want to go a cheaper route with a tablet base scanner thinking it would do what you just did like actuate the windows, not knowing they need a bi-directional scanner in order to have those functions. Not all are bi-directional. I myself have an Xtool D8 scanner, but I love these types of scanners

Just found your channel. Thank you for making this video and going through the process. Definitely getting this scanner

great video, just purchased one of these 906's, not the bluetooth model, up to now very impressed

Damn, I was a little conflicted on buying this or not until i saw your video. Im sold thank you

Awesome video. Don't be a parts changer. Learning the fundamentals is a must.

Thank you! Excellent video. Amazing the way you teach. New to the car industry and have learn that every car and every day it's a new challenge.

good video i purchase same scanner last year and i love it learning little by little hope to see more videos like this 😎👌

great job explaining these things dude

At first i was mad that this was clickbait. But then I was very happy it made me click because what you are saying is very valuable.

keep up the work brother....this is your brother from another mother down in Savannah Ga

Good video! I have spent a lot of money on scanners and the worst experience I have had was unfortunately with an Autel scanner. It just stopped whilst underwarranty and the supplier and Autel made every attempt to avoid attending to it under warranty. I still have this new scanner which is useless. So I won't buy one of their products ever again. I have found many better companies to deal with that offer much better products. I only hope no one else has a similar experience with Autel as I did, because it was really bad.

Great video. I love customers who think scanning a fault code is a diagnosis.

Thank you Lou! Much appreciate it!

Thanks, Last year I bought the same scanner. This year it’ll look like I know what I’m doing.

Good info. I’m looking into buying an Autel. I’m going back and forth on the MS and the Mk 906

Good content and the notion of why to buy a scan tool. You're quite correct, we need to know basics plus before plugging in a scan tool. I'm not an auto mechanic by trade but was blessed/cursed with the ability to diagnose and repair the junk in the yard. The 2023 maxi check 808s I ordered is on its way and I followed along to get a sense of what's inside. I spent a lot of time in a Curtis remote tool for all electric vehicles in the airline industry we built. These Autel scanners are similar in function once inside and perhaps more intuitive than a Curtis. The scanner will hopefully help here in the yard and also my son's wife has a fleet of Chrysler vans that may need the bi-directional ability to help trace troubles when they arise. Thanks Lou!

Great video!! I've been doing a decent amount of research on which scanner to upgrade to and I've definitely been eyeing this one for a while.

I just received the mx808 as a gift. Helpful video. I Was able to pin point an hvac actuator issue via live data. Thanks.

2:26 exactly! That is why I coined the phrase "parts replacers" because they replace parts hoping the problem goes away. The trouble is, few are good at diagnosing problems.

Good on you man, awesome vid and a good intro (for me) to your stuff!

Thinking of buying one of these £800 down from £1600 Mainly I like the idea of being able to do my own servicing, battery changes and brake changes and resetting the service lights/bms etc without needing to go to the shop. The live data/data logging function is something I’m also very interested in given I’ve spent 3 years doing a motorsport engineering degree with data acquisition and analysis being a major part

Keep on doing this your videos helps a lot 💯👍🏾

Just bought one last night and nervous but this video help alot

Sweet! I purchased the MK808Z-BT. I was about to replace the entire ABS unit, but the scanner removed all the air that was in the unit. All good, that's really some basic stuff. Your video shows some really good stuff. Thanks!

Thank you for the video it was very helpful

I agree most scanners are junk..you need coding, adas, bi direction controls etc now a days. Most of the lower end Autel’s are code readers. The 906 and up is way to go...But yes the person needs to have a diagnostic path and follow it using reasonable deduction. Also need wire diagrams as well.

thanks a lot for your useful information I was looking for a scanners like this and you are good sir thanks

Yes, 100% Agree. Thanks !

Was a beautiful video bro. Recently graduated tech school, grabbed a job at a school bus DOT shop. Prep buses to pass inspection is my daily duties. Buses come in with check engine light, are then scanned by supervisor of shop, then the problem can be tackled BUT ONLY after supervisor scans the bus. I said how come only you can scan the buses? No other tech here scans whether new or seasoned, no one scans but you? He said “THEY ALL REFUSE TO BUY THEMSELVES A SCANNER. Even the guy wit 17 years here!” So i told myself i will make it my business to own my own scanner and scan my own buses when the time calls for it. My supervisor uses either the 906bt or 906 pro, i have to check again. But i see him do EVERYTHING with it and i would love to learn to do the same when i get my own. So this video was GOLD sir. Appreciate your time and “agressive teaching”🤣💪🏽

Great video...hands down. Made me by my first one

although an older video, its a darn good one.. im actually looking into an autel scanner and this model one too. what you explained here Lou is dead on.. if you know how to use your equipment, life is easier haha

I just found this exact one on Walmart (walmart sold, not 3rd party) for $1075. Can’t wait to use it.

You are a gifted teacher, thanks!

I own a small body shop. I think this scanner will be a good upgrade to my shop

Great demo!

This is a great scanner it reduces my time by 50% in the worst scenario. in the best scenario it in the 85 precentile in recognizing a fault. Car parts are too expensive to be guessing on a BMW . or any very expensive car. There are systems on cars that you cannot diagnose or reset with out an OBD tool so by the tool and make three times as much money. There are millions of cars on the road so trust me you or this guy are not the only Mechanic with knowledge .

I just purchased that Autel unit, haven't received it yet, saw your video, and was like..."AWWW F@#$ !!!". Thanks for the info, and actual good things to say about the unit.

So well explained. Thank you so much

I was an mechanic for 15 years before getting into trucking back in 2004. I still from time to time work on my own vehicle and help others with theirs. Due to technology getting to where it's at even in used vehicles, I have been now looking to getting a scan tool. I really like what I've seen with the Autel scanners and would like to get one with bidirectional capability but being I no longer work in automotive on a dally basis see it feasible to purchase something like you have which now is over $1200. Was wondering if you could recommend something or if that's the minimum for bidirectional

Extremely helpful video thanks

Very good teacher! A+

Awesome, thanks for sharing!

Thanks bro, I only learned by mistakes to just ordered a similar device thanks for the advice in using it

Please continue to show how to operate this scanner, I am learning how to use it

Lou - thanks for the excellent orientation on the Autel mid/high end tools. I see you are a BenzTech. I need an Autel or Carsoft for SBC deactivation, ABS bleeding, battery replacememt and other MBZ service functions on vehciles up to 2016. Is the Mx808 sufficient or do I need a higher end/newer model (especially considering bi-directional)? Thank you for reading and a good video. Much appreciated.

Thanks for the video. I've been using one for a while but never thought to use it for windows! I just had a vehicle with a failed window switch. My first step was to pull the door panel and manually check the switch. This would have saved me a ton of time in the diag! I had the tool there and didn't even think to use it! HA! I just happened to watch the video because I was curious why someone would say the autel was useless, but learned something!

EXCELLENT

This is educational thanks , am watching these reviews am about to purchase a scan tool for mainly Toyota Hilux diesel & Petrol , Nissan Atlas small trucks 24volts and regular SUVS. this was a great review.

It is sold on the shoulder as I have loved it very much for my works that brother

Much informative

Thank you so much!

Hey man I just went out on my own in November and was borrowing a buddy's snap-on solus watched a few reviews and they where good but like you said you can't know everything but you have to know where to get the information got my follow

And price here in Finland for this same device more than 2 200 USD. And in addition it is so called workshop model for professionals.

Thanks for the video, it help me out in purchasing the 906ts

Great information,gives you an idea whether its great fit for what you need/expect a scanner would do..definitely subscribing!

Lou thanks man freaking 2004 yukon Denali random misfire no scanner feels like im in the blind. Decided to get the Ms808bt overnited it lol.

Helpful video thank you for that sir I hope you make video explain the function of which is better between autal906bt & lunch 431 v+ 🙏🏻

Nice video as always. I need a scanner that has both programming and diagnosing abilities within the range of 1200 to 1300 dollars, I normally work on Asian cars and Benz. Thanks in addy!

Parts changers (or big parts store employees) won't understand the humor behind this😂

Got a 2019 civic battery died while at gas pump put in new battery drove home put my multimeter and altenator was putting out 10v went and got a new altenator, every waring light came on put my elchepo scanner on and it had 2 lin codes and a abs code. It was at this moment I went online and purchased the autel mp808bt yes it was 840bucks. And the 506 battery altenator tester within 10 min I new the new altenator was faulty swapped it out all codes went away and all systems started working again (Lane keep assist , adaptive cruise, lane depart, ect) The reason I share this is I took the care to autozone advanced O'Reilly and all three said everthing was good. If you own. New vehicle you must own a good scanner know days even the altenator communicates threw ecm or pcm and can cause major issues just from bad new part. Thanks and again use your tool and educate yourself. Also note had I taken it to a dealer they would have said ecm or pcm was bad and charges me 1299 dollars spend 850 on a scanner and can do the work myself

Thank you very much buddy great job you’re the man I’m looking to buy one of those scanners hotel but I don’t have too much money I want to stay under $1000 I don’t know how much is that one you’re showing how much do you pay for the one the one who shown on the video?God bless you thanks again

I'm looking for one to do my range rover, every time i get one that says it covers it but then not my car I have an 06 with trans problems basically want to test the solenoids and monitor fluid temp, also have a mini cooper with all it footwell problems when it rains but trying not to sell my house to afford it. LOL Great video and common sense.

Awesome instructions bud keep it up

Hey Lou, Thank you for a great video, now I understand more about scanners. I really appreciated.

Thanks Lou I just made appt with your guy that sells these. Can I ask what you paid for that unit that’s the one I am leaning towards

Great video

By the way, thank you very much for one of the best help videos ive seen so far. Autel should make you a rep or at least send you some compensation!!!

Thanks Lou! UR Subscribed! Yep. Can longer afford to be a parts changer (like Scanner Danner sez)! You too are da' man!

Good diagnostic tools...I buy a a30m p85 is it good for a beginner?

Thank you, very clear

on the Autel Maxicheck pro, is it normal for it to not recognize a 2015 ford transit PCM when trying to get into the SAS menu ? Im Ultimately trying to recalibrate the steer angle sensor and it says the "unique power train control module is not recognized and i should try manual vehicle selection. (only the FORD transit connect shows up for available vehicle options in the scan tool. )

Hey great video I bought one 2 months ago! I had the same problem with sliding doors on 2005 odeysses!! Also can this scanner show anything about the starter circuit!! Thanks peace!!!!

I just found your video on R350, then this. Great video (accurate information with good tips for car owners like me that wants to work on their own cars). This video is great too, as to proper use and value of scanners. Thank you. What scanner would you recommend to cover most european cars, (MB, VW, Audi and BMW)?

This stuff is good! Thanks for bringing this topic and showing actual the value of a high quality scanner. A bit dissapointed to see you in a Dodge with this scanner :)

Wow that makes diagnosing quicker

Very good video Eddie 🇬🇧 uk