Autel MaxiCheck Pro Review - Chevy SSR ABS Automated Bleed

I review the Autel MaxiCheck Pro handheld code scanner/tester. I use the MaxiCheck Pro to perform an automated bleed of the ABS unit (EBCM) in my 2004 Chevrolet SSR.
⏲ Video Chapters ⏲
00:00 - Intro
01:19 - Update software
04:40 - MaxiCheck Pro main screen
05:59 - Bootup of MaxiCheck Pro
06:50 - Check for pre-existing DTCs
08:26 - Use AbsSrs feature to perform ABS automated bleed
12:15 - Final thoughts
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🔷Autel Support Website: pro.auteltech.com
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#RetroCarGuy530 #Autel #MaxiCheckPro #ChevySSR #ABS
Disclaimer: Due to factors beyond the control of RetroCarGuy530, LLC, it cannot guarantee against unauthorized modifications of this information, or improper use of this information. RetroCarGuy530, LLC assumes no liability for property damage or injury incurred as a result of any of the information contained in this video. RetroCarGuy530, LLC recommends safe practices when working with power tools, automotive lifts, lifting tools, jack stands, electrical equipment, blunt instruments, chemicals, lubricants, or any other tools or equipment seen or implied in this video. Due to factors beyond the control of RetroCarGuy530, LLC, no information contained in this video shall create any express or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result. Any injury, damage or loss that may result from improper use of these tools, equipment, or the information contained in these videos is the sole responsibility of the user and not RetroCarGuy530, LLC.

[@habsom1406]

Excellent detailed, articulate presentation. Very useful video. Thank you.

[@davidb6576]

Thanks, this review of the ABS auto bleed function was very helpful!

[@drno8308]

Thanks for the well presented review of the autel scanner. Going to try it on my 2003 silverado.

[@jeanpeau1]

Did this work for your Silverado , I'm in the same boat, thanks

[@mixmasta]

Thanks for this video. Just ordered one from Amazon today to use for the auto brake bleed functionality. This was the only video I could find on youtube where someone covered the software update procedure. I have an extremely spongy brake pedal, even after I replaced the master cylinder and running 64oz worth of brake fluid through the system to bleed it. Hoping to find some air in the abs system at this point...

[@RetroCarGuy530]

The MaxiCheck Pro manual shows an example ABS brake bleed where you go to each wheel and bleed the brake system, but in the Chevy SSR case it was the automated bleed without the individual line bleeds. I performed the ABS bleed procedure and then followed it up with a manual bleed of the brake system. I was quite impressed with the responsiveness of the brake system after both procedures. At a local Chevy SSR gathering, we compared brake pedal "firmness" and none of them were "firm", but the responsiveness of my brakes is far better now. I hope this tool helps you get the brake pedal responsiveness you're looking for.

[@rebellionspirits6245]

Good helpful video. Thanks!

[@inhocsigno9151]

Good review video, thanks.

[@edkay3601]

good video, very clear and I'm glad you had on your safety glasses and gloves. siting in the drivers seat of an ssr can be real dangerous!

[@RetroCarGuy530]

Super dangerous 😀 I had those on in case the bleed procedure requested me to bleed each wheel's brake line as the MaxiCheck documentation had in their example. As you see in the video, it did not require that for that operation. I did bleed the brakes afterwards so I was prepared! Thanks for watching the video!

[@stephenzies8867]

Thank You Sir !

[@gamebuddy69]

Could you please tell me if it's possible to check the charging system on a Chevy Venture? Thank you. (When I click on BMS, it only shows Ford) ..?? I downloaded the updates onto the memory card, but still only Ford (I'm in Canada).

[@williamriley2528]

The automated auto-bleed is for bleeding the air from the anti-lock controller only... The air bled from the anti-lock controller during the auto-bleed procedure is purged into the normal brake line system; therefore, you must then perform a routine 4 wheel brake bleed following the anti-lock controller auto bleed... After the routine 4 wheel brake bleed is completed you should be good to go.

[@RetroCarGuy530]

The Autel procedure for the (GM) Chevy SSR did not have an individual line bleed as the example in the manual showed, so yes a full bleed of the brake system would be recommended afterwards to purge all air from the system. The ABS bleed procedure and the 4-wheel bleed did eliminate all of my soft pedal issues in this Chevy SSR.

[@williamriley2528]

@@RetroCarGuy530 Correct... The 4 wheel brake line bleed has to be done old school... lol

[@bierbrauer11]

Thank you -- this is what I came here to confirm..

[@SnakeBloodlines]

Thank you for this video, I have a silly question. Going to try my 08 Sienna, Do you auto bleed abs before manual bleed or after? Thanks again!

[@RetroCarGuy530]

I would suggest performing the ABS bleed procedure first. If the Autel software module for your vehicle is one that has you bleed each line, then both operations will be performed at the same time. If it performs only the automated procedure of just the ABS unit (like in this video), then any air dislodged from the ABS unit (if any) may need to be removed from the lines by performing the follow up manual bleed of each wheel's brake line. I hope that answers your question.

[@SnakeBloodlines]

RetroCarGuy530 yes that makes perfect sense, thanks again. I really appreciate your help :-)

[@39knights]

I have an earlier Autel model. But even in the more recent models I am surprised Autel still haven't addressed the common complaint that when switching between functions while plugged into the same vehicle you would have to manually re-enter the vehicle identification.

[@robertnapier6608]

Safety first.

[@jestinunger6510]

Hello, I just bought this because I think I have air in my abs, I was just wondering did you let the cap of of your fluid reservoir or did you have the cap on when you did the auto bleed thanks

[@RetroCarGuy530]

I checked the brake fluid level before performing the ABS bleed procedure. This was because I was not sure if the ABS bleed would walk me through bleeding each wheel's brake line (like in the Autel manual). I had the brake reservoir cap sitting on the reservoir but not tightened in case any air did need to escape. The GM procedure has you press and hold the brake pedal, so there was no change in level in the master cylinder reservoir while performing the ABS bleed procedure.

[@jestinunger6510]

@@RetroCarGuy530 Okay thanks I'm hoping the auto bleed will take care of the air that I'm pretty sure I have, because I bled every brake and have pedal when the truck is off but when I turn the truck on the pedal goes to the floor. So I'm hoping the auto bleed removes the excess are that I can then bleed out of the lines manually when the auto bleed is done

[@troybusch7337]

So after you did the abs module bleed did you crack each individual line and pump brakes till it expelled brake fluid from the bleeder valve like you should on vehicles without abs?

[@RetroCarGuy530]

At about 13:00 in the video, I discuss the outcome of the ABS bleed procedure and mentioned that I found the brake pedal a bit more soft/spongy than it was before the ABS bleed procedure. I ended up performing a full/regular brake line bleed to restore the brake pedal to a proper level of firmness.

[@Romulan112]

I bought this in early 2018. Mine didnt come with a CD. I used it to bleed my ABS brakes on my Lincoln. The lincoln now won't pass emissions. Says 'not I/m ready'. I dunno if this machine is best for checking I/M. I ordered a Foxwell nt301 to do such. It looked more user friendly for codes.

[@RetroCarGuy530]

The windows/mac software (Maxi PC Suite) to update the device software can be downloaded from the Autel website. The I/M monitors check various subsystem to give a quick overview of the overall health of the vehicle. Most states require all readiness monitors to be in an "OK" state or at most one I/M monitor in an "INC" (incomplete) state. When I first connect and invoke the "OBDII" program from the main menu (with the ignition in the "ON" position but engine not running), the MaxiCheck will detect the protocol used by that specific vehicle. Then it displays the "System Status" page which shows the state of the various readiness monitors "Monitors N/A" (these are the ones not implemented by that vehicle), "Monitors OK" count of number of readiness monitors that have run and passed and then "Monitors INC" which are how many monitors have not run yet to determine if a pass/fail condition exists. On my Chevy SSR (and most GM vehicles), the EVAP readiness monitors takes a LONG time to run because it requires specific drive cycle conditions to run. If you press the "OK" button on the "System Status" page, it should present "Diagnostic Menu" and on my MaxiCheck Pro option 6 is the "I/M Readiness" selection. It then displays the "Since DTCs cleared" detailed display of the various readiness monitors (use the up/down buttons to scroll through the various monitors). My 2004 Chevy SSR (right now) has one readiness monitor as "INC" and that is the "Evaporative system monitoring". In CA, I would be able to pass a smog check test with that one still being in an "INC" state, but it's always best to have all readiness monitors "OK" before a smog check. Is the smog check station the one stating "not I/M ready", if so you should be able to check which one or ones are in the "INC" or failed state as I mentioned above. If it's the MaxiCheck Pro stating "not I/M ready", I would only be able to suggest to download the "Maxi PC Suite" software from the Autel support website and update the software on the memory card to make sure you're using the latest "software pack" for your Lincoln. The MaxiCheck Pro comes with lifetime free software updates, so if you haven't updated it yet, please update it and check your vehicle again. I hope that helps!

[@theclasemen1271]

Nice video, can you tell me if this scanner would support auto bleed on a 2014 Jeep jk

[@RetroCarGuy530]

The Clasemen the 2014 Jeep JK is a supported vehicle and the ABS/SRS module is available for that vehicle. I cannot drill fully into the ABS module without that vehicle connected to the MaxiCheck Pro device. Autel’s website shows subsystem functions for their other devices and it only lists ABS initialization for that vehicle. You may want to call Autel and ask them directly. Phone: 1-855-AUTEL-US (288-3587) (Monday-Friday, 9:00AM-6:00PM Eastern Time). I hope that helps.

[@theclasemen1271]

@@RetroCarGuy530 thanks a lot, I ordered the LAUNCH CRP 479 from Amazon and the seller said it could do an abs auto bleed but it doesn't support my vehicle, I'm returning it tomorrow

[@alstevens44]

I have one but I tried it to ford 2003 windstar & it will not auto bleed like yours.

[@RetroCarGuy530]

It may not perform the auto bleed procedure if there are any ABS DTCs present. Did you check for any generic or ABS specific DTCs? Each car manufacturer's support level by the MaxiCheck Pro can be different (as I found from the manual showing it would bleed each brake line, but for my vehicle it only performed the procedure in the video).

[@Alzzz333]

Would is work on a Chevy Cruze 2017 the abs bleeding on that tool

[@RetroCarGuy530]

Looking at the year/make/model listing in the ABSSRS module, it appears to support the 2017 Chevy Cruz (actually it supports up to the 2018 model year). In the "Active Test" section of that module it lists an "Automated brake bleed" function for the 2017 Chevy Cruz.

[@williamneal2166]

I have a 2003 Corvette Z06 and the only special function is an autobleed where it asks me to pump the brakes. Not hold. It does not seem to activate the ABS. Also when getting to that point, it asked for a letter input from a list from C-Z. Not sure what this is

[@RetroCarGuy530]

The actual auto bleed function steps vary based on the ABS module in the vehicle. I've searched around a bit and I have not found what it might be prompting for when it's asking for the "C-Z' value. It may require you to post a question to Autel on what their special function module is prompting for when it asks for the "C-Z" value. Their manual (one I received with my unit) shows an example of you bleeding each brake line during the auto bleed, but on my Chevy SSR it performed the automated bleed after pressing the brake pedal.

[@williamneal2166]

Thanks for the quick reply. I am getting the bleed each corner note. I did try to test the "motor" and that seemed to cycle something. I then got error codes on the car but they cleared up after starting the car. I am going to do a full, normal bleed now to see if that finishes it up. The brake pedal feels pretty good now and hopefully better after the bleed. Thanks again @@RetroCarGuy530

[@auteldirect6286]

The letter C-Z is for you to select a letter that indicates one character of the VIN Code to match your vehicle. The MaxiCheck Pro should be able to auto bleed 2003 Corvette Z06, can you share more details?

[@davidb6576]

@@auteldirect6286 Nice to see your company in the comments.

[@alessandrolorizzo8067]

hello can you show me how the procedure works (SAS)

[@RetroCarGuy530]

I checked my MaxiCheck Pro this morning and it seems to have somewhat limited model year support for the SAS function (it only goes up to MY 2015 for Kia Soul while we have a 2017). I tried my 2006 Toyota Highlander Hybrid and it initialized 12 data modules and then I selected the vehicle. The process for each manufacturer is different based on what I see in the tool. I would need to be able to connect the Maxicheck Pro to a year/make/model just like yours (assuming it's not a super recent model year) before I could even attempt to say how Autel and the auto manufacturer have implemented the SAS calibration procedure.

[@mikesabota2570]

Wonder if it covers 2002/2005 Chevy Trailblazers??

[@RetroCarGuy530]

Yes, it supports the 2002/2005 Chevy Trailblazer. You can use their TPMS product support website to see if it supports any year/make/model vehicle. www.maxitpms.com/tpmscms/getCoverage.jspx Vehicle Type Frequency Relearn Support by Autel(MX-Sensor) Support by Autel(Tool) Current Version US Chevrolet Trailblazer 01/2001-12/2006 315MHz 315MHz S Y Y V6.28 *In Relearn column, A represents Automatic Relearn, S Stationary Relearn, O OBD Relearn, C Copy.

[@jonbob8765]

Will it auto bleed a 2015 chevy silverado 1500 and or a 2017 Chrysler Pacifica? Really want a bidirectional scanner but dont have $3,000 for a pro model.

[@RetroCarGuy530]

I cannot identify whether a specific car/make/model has a ABS bleed procedure. The best I can tell you is that the device does come with a AbsSrs "software kit" (module) for Chrysler and GM vehicles. The actual procedure used by the Autel provided "software kit" (module) for a specific vehicle may differ from the manual. The Autel manual shows an example of an ABS bleed procedure where you physically bleed each brake line, but as you see in my video it simply invoked some ABS module function to exercise/bleed the unit. I would suggest calling Autel at 1-855-AUTEL-US (288-3587) to see if they can better answer your question.

[@jonbob8765]

@@RetroCarGuy530 thank you. Just makes bleeding after replacing the pump or a line in front of the pump easier.

[@RetroCarGuy530]

I powered up my unit and when I accessed the AbsSrs "software kit" module for both of the year/make/model vehicles, did present an ABS option, but that's as far as I can go in those two Autel ABS modules without an actual vehicle of that type to plug it into. I hope that helps. Calling Autel may be your best option as I mentioned in my previous comment.

[@bradleyworch6742]

Will this auto bleed the ABS module on a 2001 GMC Yukon?

[@RetroCarGuy530]

Looking at the Autel Vehicle Coverage info ( www.autel.com/vehicle-coverage/coverage1 , Product Model: MaxiCheck Pro, Name of Software: GM, then click GM icon on the line for the ABSSRS ), the MaxiCheck Pro does support interacting with the ABS control module (4WAL 3 Sensor) for the 2001 GMC Yukon 2WD & 4WD. They do not list individual functions that are support for that module, but this is a fairly common ABS system for GM and if the 2004 Chevy SSR is supported, I would venture to guess your vehicle would be as well.

[@TheBgred1]

does it cover Kia? I have an 07 sportage with an abs issue

[@RetroCarGuy530]

I just checked my MaxiCheck Pro. Using manual vehicle selection in the ABS/SRS module, it allowed me to select (for the USA market) KIA > Sportage (KM) > 2007 > and then there are two engine selections "G 2.0 DOHC" and "G 2.7 DOHC" and then "Anti lock brake system. It then tries to communicate with the car's ECU which is as far as I can go without that vehicle connected. So, I believe the answer is yes. I hope that helps!

[@TheBgred1]

thank u for getting back to me, especially so quickly, much appreciated, sounds like it will work, fixed my sportage but my actron wont clear it, it reads abs but only american cars, it reads the kias codes, but not abs, and I want to get the abs code cleared, and time for an upgrade anyways, sounds like this will work

[@Badge1122]

I got one and it only worked twice on auto brake bleed. Can it be fixed?

[@RetroCarGuy530]

I'm not sure what your statement about it only worked twice means. Did the Autel MaxiCheck Pro break/fail? If so, it should be a warranty issue to be handled by Autel. If there was a software update applied to the MaxiCheck Pro that caused the auto brake bleed to stop working, that should be reported to Autel to let them know the update broke a previously functioning feature.

[@fatenabdallah7861]

Will it do an auto bleed on a 2012 Chevy impala?

[@RetroCarGuy530]

Using the Autel website to lookup "Function" support for the 2012 Chevy Impala, it shows: *Website:* www.autel.com/vehicle-coverage/coverage1 *Product Model:* MaxiCheck Pro *Name of Software:* GM That presents a PDF download link of: download1.auteltech.net/Download/Veh/SERVICE/ABSSRS/Gm/en_AbsSrs_GM%20FUNCLIST.pdf For the 2012 Chevy Impala, it shows support for "Electronic brake control module" and "Supplemental inflatable restraint" subsystems. That does not list the individual "Special Functions". I powered up my MaxiCheck Pro and I found the following four "Special Functions" under the "Electronic brake control module" section. Automated bleed Steering angle sensor centering Yaw rate sensor recalibration Brake booster vacuum relay So, I believe the answer to your question is yes!

[@olayemiolajide1733]

Can dis scanner diagnose transmission system?

[@RetroCarGuy530]

The scanner can interact with the ECU/PCM, EPB (electronic parking brake), OLS (oil life system), SRS (supplemental restraint system), ABS (anti-lock brake system), SAS (steering angle sensor), DPF (diesel particulate filter) and BMS (battery management system) subsystems. The MaxiCheck Pro does not have a TCM "software kit" (module) to interact with with a TCM's inner functionality. The MaxiCheck Pro user manual does mention the TCM in the section where it talks about retrieving data from the ECU/PCM or the TCM when you connect the device to the OBD-II port. That's the only place it mentions the TCM. You may want to give Autel a call at 1-855-AUTEL-US (288-3587) to see if they can answer your specific question. I hope that answers your question.

[@alexntx333]

That's a Great Question.., looks like the answer was no.

[@larrycorkum2397]

will this do autobleed on 06 dodge ram 1500

[@RetroCarGuy530]

Larry Corkum without the vehicle connected to the maxicheck pro, the best I can determine is that it does allow a 2006 Dodge Ram to be selected manually, but all I can tell is that it does have abs module support but I can’t tell what sub functions the abs software module on the maxicheck supports. My best guess would be that it does support the feature, but to be sure you might want to contact Autel support.

[@xtooltutorials]

You can send your VIN number to [e-mail] to check compatibility.

[@ANDY-we7mr]

ROBERT DOES IT DO TPMS AND PARKING SENSORS FAULT

[@RetroCarGuy530]

No this does not handle anything TPMS related. It supports reading codes, clearing codes, live data and some specific functions for the ECM/PCM module, SRS [air bag] module, EBCM [ABS] module. www.autel.com/mk2/3225.jhtml

[@seapeddler]

I'm assuming auto-bleed is like a pressure bleeder. You press the pedal and open the bleeder for each wheel you wish to purge ? Someone should invent auto-opening bleeder screws as well. But BMW electric brakes appear to be superior.

[@RetroCarGuy530]

The GM procedure actually just has the various valves in the ABS controller (EBCM) get activated to press out any fluid/air in the unit. You need to perform a manual brake bleed after this procedure to remove the air fully from the system. The MaxiCheck Pro user manual gives an example where you would need to open/close the bleeders at each wheel, but the GM procedure does not have you do that.

[@KINGRG1]

Do you have to crack the caliper bleeders open while doing this?

[@RetroCarGuy530]

The example in the user manual for the Autel scan tool suggested that the automated bleed procedure might request me to open the bleeder at each wheel during the procedure, but as you see in the video it did not do that at all on my Chevy SSR (which is basically a Trailblazer under the sheet metal). I ended up performing a manual brake bleed after the automated ABS brake bleed and once both of those were done, the brake pedal felt great on that vehicle for the first time ever. The procedure for your vehicle may differ from what is shown in the video depending how the special function invoked by the Autel tool has the procedure implemented.

[@KINGRG1]

RetroCarGuy530 Are you supposed to manually bleed the brakes first, and then bleed the ABS? I know that most bleeding procedures on ALLDATA call for it like that..

[@RetroCarGuy530]

@@KINGRG1 Looking at AllDataDiy info for my SSR it does suggest to bleed the brake system manually first, then the automated ABS bleed and then bleed all wheels again to purge any air remaining in the system.

[@KINGRG1]

RetroCarGuy530 What does ALLDATA say for a 2002 F150 4.6 2WD?

[@RetroCarGuy530]

@@KINGRG1 I don't have a subscription to AllDataDiy for that vehicle, so I cannot tell you what it says. Sorry.

[@willisalmonte8682]

I need put in espanish mi maxichek pro

[@RetroCarGuy530]

From the main screen of the MaxiCheck Pro you should scroll down to "Setup" and then press [OK] and then select "Language" with the [OK] button and scroll to espanol and press the [OK] button.

[@michaelchafin3015]

The audio is EXTREMELY DIFFICULT to hear/comprehend. Voice is too low and monotone. Suggest you find someone with a BIG BOOMING VOICE and redo whole thing.

[@tandlmindy]

He was obviously afraid that the scan tool was either going to melt in his hands or blow up and get shrapnel in his eyes.

[@williamriley2528]

No... He needs to purchase a quality separate microphone if he plans on continuing to post on KZbin.

[@larrycorkum2397]

his voice fine clean your ears lol

[@autohelix]

I can hear just fine.

[@tmise50]

@@autohelix I’m 75% deaf in one ear and I heard him fine. Clean out your nasty ears NOW!!