Visiting the mechanic every time you see the check engine light come on is costly and time-consuming. However, you can reduce the mechanic’s cost and trip by acquiring the Autel AP200 diagnostic tool.
Autel is a well-known OBD2 scanner brand all over the world. The Autel MaxiAP AP200 Bluetooth scanner is one of the best diagnostic software that you will come across. The device works by connecting the AP200 dongle to the AP200 software on an Android or iOS gadget. Unlike most OBD2 diagnostic devices on the market, the Autel AP200 OBD2 scanner is reliable, offers a stable connection, and covers multiple functions. Aside from that, it is made by one of the most trusted car diagnostic brands on the market.
Autel Maxiap AP200 Review in 2024
If you wish to understand the Autel MaxiAP AP200 OBD2 scan tool better, you’re in the right place. This review covers all the crucial points about the Autel AP200 scanner.
Who should buy the Autel AP200?
The Autel MaxiAp AP200 may be built for DIY enthusiasts, start-up mechanics, and car owners, but it’s not an excellent professional OBD2 mechanics tool. This is because it is convenient and straightforward to use. Besides, it also diagnoses various car makes and models. Additionally, it can be updated for free to have the latest software to diagnose the newest car models.
Technical Specifications:
| All Features | Autel Maxi AP200 OBD2 Software & Adapter |
| Works on: | Almost 1996 and newer OBDII-compliant vehicles |
| Suitable for : | iPhone & Android |
| Check the status of the MIL and other additional information: | Yes |
| Display the VIN, CVN, and other information of the test vehicle: | Yes |
| Read and Clear stored: | Yes |
| Service functions: | Steering angle sensor calibration, Oil Life Reset, EBB, DPF regeneration, SAS, brake control system, and many more |
| Vehicle Service Type: | Infiniti, Suzuki, Mazda, Toyota, Acura, Isuzu, Lexus, Hyundai, Mitsubishi, Subaru, Nissan, Honda, KIA, Daewoo, Daihatsu, Ssang Yong, GTR, Scion
European: Jaguar, Volvo, Renault, EURO-Ford, Opel, Landrover, Saab, Seat, Fiat, Benz, Peugeot, Citroen, Skoda, VW, Audi, Porsche, BMW, Smart, Sprinter, LT3, Alfan |
| Weight: | 1.12 ounces |
| Warranty: | risk-free one-year warranty |
| Folding: | No |
| Record vehicle history diagnostic data: | Yes |
| Designed with a free APP: | Yes |
| Wider vehicle coverage & Live data: | Yes |
| Dimensions: | 2.33 x 1.91 x 0.97 inches |
| Price: |  Check Today’s Price on Amazon |
Summary of Contents
Easy to use
The Autel MaxiAP AP200 is a portable and lightweight Bluetooth OBD ii device. It is easy to store in a compartment, pocket, or backpack. The unit was made with car owners and DIYers in mind, making it simple to operate. Simply plug in the dongle in the carport, download the software, and link them via Bluetooth.
Extensive vehicle coverage
The Autel AP200 covers most OBD2-compliant vehicles manufactured from 1996 and newer. This includes cars from the USA, Asia, and Europe. Some of the cars make that this unit works with are Toyota, Honda, Infiniti, Renault, Audi, Chrysler, Landrover, Volvo, Nissan, Isuzu, Mitsubishi, Opel, Benz, Seat, GTR, and much more. But for BMW, you should use the Foxwell NT510 automotive car scanner.
Performs multiple functions
This is among the most incredible things about the AP200 Autel diagnostic code reader. This OBD2 scan tool performs basic, special, and a few advanced functions. First and foremost, it executes all OBD2 functions. On top of that, it tests several service functions, including engine oil reset, EPB service, BMS service, SAS, IMMO, steering, and much more.
Related article: Which Bluetooth OBD2 Scanner is Suitable For You Between BlueDriver and FIXD?
Use this scan tool to check the malfunction indicating the light’s status and display the VIN, CVN, and other car data. Besides, it can also examine the emission system’s operation, read & clear fault codes of tested vehicles, and retrieve and view the O2 sensor monitor test.
Check Today’s Price on Amazon
Astonishingly, this small scan tool comes with a choice of 15 languages, allowing users from across the world to diagnose their vehicles without any challenge. Some languages are English, Spanish, French, Italian, Russian, Portuguese, Chinese, Korean, Polish, Swedish, Dutch, German, Japanese, and much more.
Software Updates & Warranty
Other Bluetooth scanner models like FIXD offers a 1-3 years warranty, but Autel AP200 gives users free lifetime software updates. This means that you will fix issues on even the latest car models as long as you have downloaded its software.
Autel offers a 1-year warranty to buyers of its OBD2 adapters. The cover takes care of defects in material and workmanship.
Pros of the Autel MaxiApp AP200
- The device is compact and lightweight for ease of use
- It offers all OBD2 functions
- The tools support up to 19 specific service functions and generate repair reports
- Works with different vehicles systems
- It comes with 15 different languages to choose from
- The Auto Vin function makes your work easier as it identifies the vehicle for you
- You can perform a sensor test, get vehicle information, and maintain brake fluid control with different domestic and European vehicles
- SAS service can store the current steering wheel position
- It comes with one free vehicle software
- The code reader covers a variety of vehicle makes and models
- The scanning device informs you about the vehicle’s driving conditions and electronic braking system
- It has a 1-year warranty
Cons of the Autel MaxiApp AP200
- It is quite costly, and its coverage can only be expanded with in-app purchases.
- Not as advanced as the wireless Bluedriver or Bafx 34t5 Bluetooth scanning device.
How does the Autel AP200 work?
The Autel MaxiAP AP200 scan tool is designed for car enthusiasts, start-up mechanics, and professional technicians. As a result, it is effortless to use and doesn’t require experience in OBD2 scanners.
To use this Bluetooth scanner, you will have to download the AP200 app and install it. The app can only be linked to Android and iOS devices, meaning you will download it from Google Store or App Store. Next, you will have to scan the QR code of the Autel AP200 dongle. You can now insert the dongle in the DLC (vehicle’s Data Link Connector) port of the car. Finally, you can pair the AP200 dongle with your device and start diagnosing the vehicle via the app.
Related article: BlueDriver VS BAFX: Which Wireless Scanner Meets Your Requirements?
How to update?
What’s more, updating the device is easy as you only need the internet to do so. The first software that you download is free. But after that, you will have to pay a small fee for additional software for diagnosing another car brand. After you’ve linked up the software and the diagnostic dongle, you can now turn on the vehicle ignition and start analyzing your vehicle.
How to connect?
You don’t need the internet to connect the AP200 dongle to your gadget. It is easily connected via Bluetooth. Note that the procedure for connecting the scan tool to your device varies depending on whether you use iOs or Android. Hence, you should follow the step-by-step instructions of the operating system that you have.
Bottom Line
The Autel MaxiAP AP200 Bluetooth scanner offers excellent value for money. The device is cheaper than other expensive scan tools, such as Autel MaxiLink ML619 or Autel MaxiLink ML629. The diagnostic software is very reliable in performance and covers multiple functions. It is also effortless to use and comes with free software updates. You can also rely on it to deliver quick and reliable results as it provides a stable connection. Moreover, it comes with a 12-month warranty, which assures the buyer that their purchase is safe.
If you’re demanding quality and low-priced Bluetooth scan tools to keep you updated on your car status, the Autel MaxiAP scanner is an ideal device. I hope that our Autel AP200 reviews article has given you a clear idea about this Bluetooth scanner.
Comparison Table: Autel AP200H vs. Autel AP200C vs. Autel AP200 OBD2 Scanner
| Features | Autel AP200H | Autel AP200C | Autel AP200 |
| Dimension: | 2.5 x 2 x 1 inches | 2.3 x 1.7 x 0.85 inches | 2.3 x 1.9 x 1 inches |
| Vehicle Coverage: | All makes & models of 1996+ | All makes & models of 1996+ | All makes & models of 1996+ |
| Weight: | 3 ounces | 1.12 Ounces | 1.1 ounces |
| ABS Diagnosis: | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| SAS Calibration: | No | Yes | Yes |
| TPMS Reset: | No | No | Yes |
| ABS Bleeding: | No | Yes | Yes |
| Transmission Diagnosis: | Yes | No | Yes |
| Full OBD2 Functions: | No | No | Yes |
| Engine Diagnosis: | Yes | No | Yes |
| Reports: | Health Rating | No | Repair Report |
| Price: | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price |
An Alternative of Autel AP200:
- Dimensions: 2.2 x 1.9 x 1 inches
- Weight: 2.08 ounces
- Works: ALL 1996 and newer vehicles
- Check Engine Light: Yes
- Live Data: Display multiple PIDs as a graph, gauge, or digital readout (or export the log to a file)
- Modes: 6 (Advanced test results)
- Freeze Frame: Vehicle snapshot when a code is stored
- Read and Clear CEL Codes: Yes(Confirmed, Pending, and Permanent for all makes)
- Repair Reports: Code Definition, Possible Causes, Reported Fixes (Vehicle-specific for each DTC)
- Airbag, ABS Check: Yes
- Vehicle Coverage: GM, Ford, Chrysler, Toyota, Nissan, and BMW brands sold in North America (2005 models & newer), Honda brands sold in North America (2003 models & newer), Volkswagen brands sold in North America
- Software Update: Free updates
- Warranty: 1-year warranty
FAQs
Do I have to buy the software, or is it free?
Answer: Many people get confused when they learn that the manufacturer provides one free software. This is because many diagnostic Bluetooth scanners charge for their software. But in this case, the software is free of charge. Aside from that, the manufacturer provides lifetime free software updates for the software. Note that free software is for only one car. If you want to cover more vehicles, you will have to get additional software for those vehicles at a fee.
Can I use the Autel AP200 scan tool to perform advanced functions like IMMO and bi-directional tests?
Answer: No, you can’t. The Autel MaxiAp AP200 only performs basic functions and several service functions. It can do oil light reset, perform key program procedures, ABS bleeding, check engine oil life system, diesel particulate filter system, TPMS reset, EPB service, PCM, and much more. If you want to perform advanced functions, you will have to consider getting an advanced Autel MS906TS Maxisys diagnostic scanner. However, you should be ready to pay more.
Can I use this software on an Android gadget?
Answer: Yes, you can. This Bluetooth scanner works on both Android and iOS devices. This means that you can download it on the iPhone, iPad, or any Android phone or laptop. But if you have windows, Mac, or Linux systems, the device will not work on these systems. It works on even the most recent iOS 13 or Android 10 gadgets, but for the windows system, you have to buy an OBDLink LX wireless Bluetooth scan tool.
Does the additional vehicle diagnostic software mean car make or model?
Answer: What this device means by getting vehicle-specific software for your vehicle is the make. For instance, if the first software is for Ford, it will cover all Ford vehicle makes and models. Hence, if you decide to get an additional AP200 software, you will be getting it for a particular car brand, such as Toyota, Honda, or VW. Therefore, you can use that single software to diagnose all vehicle makes and models.
Meet our professional car mechanic, Russell D. Steele, who has been in this field for five consecutive years and works with several automotive companies. He completed the "AUTOMOTIVE & LIGHT DUTY DIESEL TECHNOLOGY" course from NorthWest Lowa Community College, where he learned essential diagnostic and transportation management skills and became a certified mechanic.
