For car owners and DIY mechanics, having a reliable diagnostic scan tool is invaluable. The Autel MaxiDiag series, including models like the US703 and MD801, has garnered attention for its capabilities and affordability. This article delves into user reviews and expert insights to explore the Autel MaxiDiag US703 diagnostic scan tool, helping you determine if it’s the right choice for your automotive needs.
The Autel MaxiDiag US703 is often discussed in conjunction with other models like the EU702, JP701, and FR704, as well as the MD801. Understanding their relationship is key to evaluating the US703’s potential. Forum discussions reveal that the MD801 is essentially a 4-in-1 tool, encompassing the functionality of the JP701 (Japanese cars), EU702 (European cars), US703 (US cars), and FR704 (French cars). This means the US703 is a component within the broader MD801 package, focusing specifically on US vehicle compatibility.
User Experiences and Compatibility: Focusing on Volvo and Beyond
While the “US703” designation implies a focus on American vehicles, user discussions reveal broader compatibility, particularly within the context of the MD801. A user in a Volvo forum, “99v40,” inquired about the MD801’s compatibility with a 1999 Volvo V40. The response from another forum member, “gatos,” highlights the versatility of these tools.
Gatos explained that the hardware across JP701, EU702, US703, and FR704 is identical, with the differences lying in the software loaded for specific car markets. Gatos, owning a JP701 (Japanese market version), successfully loaded Volvo software (EU702 equivalent) and other European car software, effectively transforming their tool into a multi-region scanner. This suggests that the MD801, which includes the US703 software, should also be compatible with a range of vehicles beyond just US makes, depending on the software files available.
Volvo Compatibility: Petrol vs. Diesel Considerations
The forum discussion touches on a crucial point regarding European vehicle compatibility, specifically for Volvo: the distinction between petrol and diesel engines. Gatos noted that the EU702 (and by extension, likely the US703 and MD801 with EU software) works well with petrol cars for engine code reading and resetting. However, there were limitations reported with older diesel Volvo models, particularly the 1.9D engines in S40 and V40 models up to 2004.
According to Gatos’s firsthand experience, while the EU702 could reset SRS and service lights and access the ABS system on these older diesel Volvos, it could not read engine codes. This limitation is attributed to the “odd configuration” of the Bosch ECU in these specific diesel models. It’s important to note that this issue seems specific to older 1.9D Volvo engines and may not apply to later diesel models like the S60 D5 discussed in the forum.
For Volvo owners, especially those with petrol models or newer diesels (post-2004, excluding the specific 1.9D engine), the Autel MaxiDiag US703 (within the MD801 or potentially as a standalone unit if software is interchangeable) appears to offer good compatibility for reading and clearing engine codes, SRS lights, and accessing ABS systems.
SRS and ABS Functionality: Key Selling Points
A recurring theme in user discussions is the desire to reset the SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) light and address ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) issues. Users like “cheshired5” and “rob27” specifically mentioned purchasing the MD801 to clear SRS warnings. Cheshired5 reported successfully clearing an SRS warning on their Volvo S60 D5 on the first attempt, highlighting the tool’s effectiveness for this common issue.
The ability to reset SRS lights is a significant advantage for DIY car maintenance. Traditionally, SRS light resets often require a trip to a mechanic, incurring costs. The Autel MaxiDiag US703 and MD801 offer a cost-effective solution for this, potentially “paying for itself” after just one SRS reset, as one user noted.
Fault Code Reading and Clearing: Diagnosing Car Problems
The primary function of any diagnostic scan tool is to read and clear fault codes, aiding in the diagnosis of car problems. Forum users like “99v40” explicitly stated their need for a tool to read fault codes. The discussions confirm that the Autel MaxiDiag series, including the US703/MD801, is capable of reading and clearing codes for petrol engines.
However, as mentioned earlier, limitations might exist for certain older diesel engines. For general petrol engine diagnostics, users seem satisfied with the code reading and clearing capabilities of these Autel tools. The ability to read “generic EOBD codes” alongside manufacturer-specific codes (like Volvo codes) further enhances their diagnostic utility.
MD801 vs. EU702 vs. Other Scanners: Navigating the Autel Lineup and Alternatives
The forum thread naturally leads to comparisons between different Autel models and alternative scan tools. Understanding these comparisons helps in making an informed purchase decision.
Comparison with EU702 and MD801: Choosing the Right Model
The discussion clarifies that the MD801 is a more comprehensive tool than the EU702 or US703 alone, as it combines the software for multiple regions. If you anticipate working on vehicles from various regions (Europe, US, Japan, France), the MD801 offers broader coverage out of the box.
However, if your focus is primarily on US vehicles, or European vehicles (petrol, excluding the specific older diesel engine caveat), then a US703 or EU702 (or MD801 with the relevant software) might suffice. The price difference could be a deciding factor. Gatos advised, “If you can get hold of the MD801 cheaper than the EU702 then go for it. If it is more, then I would rather go for the EU702.” This suggests that price comparison is crucial when choosing between these closely related models.
Alternatives: Volvo DICE and Foxwell NT630
For Volvo-specific diagnostics, the Volvo DICE (Diagnostic Communication Equipment) is mentioned as a superior alternative, especially by Gatos. DICE, when used with VIDA (Volvo Diagnostic software), offers much deeper diagnostic capabilities, including programming and module configuration, beyond basic code reading and resetting. However, DICE often comes at a higher price point and may require more technical expertise to set up and use, including software installation on a laptop.
For a mid-range alternative, the Foxwell NT630 is mentioned by “bimmer49” as a tool that also works with Volvo ABS and SRS fault reading and clearing, offering competitive pricing. This suggests that Foxwell scanners are another viable option to consider, particularly if you need Volvo-specific functionality and want to explore alternatives to Autel.
Buying Considerations: Authenticity, Price, and Where to Purchase
The forum thread touches upon the issue of counterfeit Autel scanners, particularly the MD802. “bobthecabbage” raised concerns about fake or “grey import” MD802 units being sold online, sometimes even at prices that seem suspiciously low.
Authenticity and Price: Avoiding Counterfeits
The discussion suggests that genuine Autel scanners might be priced significantly higher than those found on platforms like eBay and Amazon, implying that very cheap deals could be a red flag for counterfeit products. While the thread doesn’t definitively solve the authenticity question, it highlights the importance of buying from reputable sellers and being wary of deals that seem too good to be true.
Where to Purchase: eBay and Manufacturer Direct
The user “99v40” mentioned buying their scan tool from eBay. Gatos suggested that buying from eBay might offer a degree of buyer protection, as returns might be possible if the tool doesn’t work as expected. However, purchasing directly from the manufacturer or authorized retailers is generally recommended to ensure authenticity and warranty support, although this might come at a higher price.
Conclusion: Is the Autel MaxiDiag US703 Right for You?
Based on user reviews and forum discussions, the Autel MaxiDiag US703 (especially within the MD801 package) appears to be a capable and versatile diagnostic scan tool, particularly for petrol vehicles and for tasks like SRS light resets and ABS diagnostics.
Pros:
- Multi-Vehicle Compatibility: The MD801, including US703, offers broad vehicle coverage (US, European, Japanese, French) depending on software.
- SRS and ABS Functionality: Effectively resets SRS lights and accesses ABS systems.
- Fault Code Reading and Clearing: Capable of reading and clearing generic and manufacturer-specific codes for petrol engines.
- Ease of Use: Standalone operation, no computer required for basic functions.
- Cost-Effective: Offers good functionality at a mid-range price point, potentially saving money on mechanic visits for common issues.
Cons:
- Potential Diesel Engine Limitations: May have limitations with reading engine codes on certain older diesel engines (specifically older Volvo 1.9D).
- Authenticity Concerns: Risk of encountering counterfeit products, especially when buying from non-authorized sources.
- Less Advanced than DICE: For Volvo-specific in-depth diagnostics and programming, Volvo DICE is a more powerful, albeit more expensive and complex, alternative.
Verdict:
The Autel MaxiDiag US703, particularly as part of the MD801, is a solid choice for DIY car owners and mechanics needing a versatile and user-friendly diagnostic scan tool, especially for petrol vehicles and common tasks like SRS and ABS maintenance. However, Volvo owners, particularly those with older 1.9D diesel models, should be aware of potential engine code reading limitations. For comprehensive Volvo diagnostics, considering Volvo DICE might be worthwhile, while Foxwell NT630 offers another mid-range alternative. When purchasing, prioritize reputable sellers to minimize the risk of counterfeit products and ensure you are getting a genuine and reliable Autel MaxiDiag scan tool.
