Universal, OEM and brand-specific scanners compared, with MaxiSys/MaxiCheck and dedicated tools for Ford-Mazda and the VW group as examples.
In modern vehicles almost every system is managed by a control unit, and faults are stored as trouble codes. Reading them requires a diagnostic scanner that communicates with the vehicle’s modules.
- Universal (multibrand) scanners: cover basic diagnostics for most vehicles.
- OEM scanners: the most capable tools, developed by carmakers for their own models.
- Brand-specific scanners: made by third parties with near-factory functionality.
According to MSG specialists, one multibrand tool such as MaxiSys or MaxiCheck is enough in about 80 per cent of cases. Programming, coding and adaptation call for specialised tools, such as the Autel MaxiSys Pro 908 for BMW, the MS0122 UCDS adapter for Ford and Mazda, and ODIS for the VW group.