When choosing between the Autel MaxiDAS DS900TS and the Autel MaxiTPMS TS900, the decision doesn't come down to compromised TPMS performance. Both professional-grade scanners deliver a complete diagnostic suiteโempowering technicians to activate sensors, program Autel MX-Sensors, and execute comprehensive OBD relearn procedures with ease.
What truly drives the decision is what you need beyond TPMS. While both tools excel at tire pressure monitoring and all-system diagnostics, the DS900TS steps up your capabilities with broader functions, most notably ECU coding and guided operations.
To help you choose the ideal tool for your workshop, this guide breaks down their shared strengths and key differences.
1. Quick Comparison: Shared TPMS Core & Key Differences
| Feature | Autel MaxiDAS DS900TS | Autel MaxiTPMS TS900 |
| Primary Focus | Comprehensive Diagnostics + Complete TPMS | Basic Diagnostics + Complete TPMS |
| TPMS Sensor Activation & Reading | Full Support | Full Support |
| MX-Sensor Programming | Full Support | Full Support |
| TPMS Relearn Procedures | Comprehensive OBD Relearn | Comprehensive OBD Relearn |
| All-System Diagnostics | Yes | Yes |
| Bidirectional Active Tests | Yes | Yes |
| ECU Coding & Adaptations | Yes | No |
| Service Functions | 40+ Maintenance Functions | 40+ Maintenance Functions |
| Protocols | CAN FD & DoIP | CAN FD & DoIP |
| Hardware OS | Android 11 | Android 11 |
| Screen | 8-inch Touchscreen | 8-inch Touchscreen |
2. Complete TPMS Diagnostic on Both Models
A major advantage of comparing the DS900-TS and TS900 is that you do not need to sacrifice core TPMS capabilities when choosing either model.
Both scanners support a comprehensive TPMS workflow, helping technicians identify sensor issues, check available sensor data, program compatible replacement sensors and complete supported relearn procedures.
TPMS Sensor Activation and Reading
Both tools can activate and read supported TPMS sensors to retrieve available sensor information.
This helps technicians check whether sensors are responding, inspect available sensor IDs and battery information, and investigate common TPMS issues before replacing components.
TPMS Sensor Programming
The DS900TS and TS900 both support programming compatible Autel MX-Sensors.
Autel's programmable universal sensors can replace many original TPMS sensors, reducing the need to stock a separate replacement sensor for every supported vehicle application.
Sensor compatibility and programming options depend on the vehicle and sensor type. Programming support for Autel MX-Sensors does not mean that every third-party sensor can be programmed.
TPMS Relearn Procedures
After replacing a TPMS sensor or performing relevant wheel service, the vehicle may need a relearn procedure to recognise the sensor ID.
Both models support comprehensive TPMS relearn workflows, including supported OBD relearn procedures and on-screen instructions.
Available procedures vary by vehicle. Some applications may require an OBD relearn, while others use automatic or stationary relearn methods.
TPMS Fault Codes and Live Data
Both scanners can access supported TPMS diagnostic information, including reading and clearing TPMS fault codes and reviewing available live data.
These functions help technicians investigate sensor communication issues and distinguish between a sensor problem and a vehicle-side TPMS fault.
3. Why Choose the DS900TS? ECU Coding and More Diagnostic Capability
If both models offer complete TPMS functions, why consider the DS900TS?
The main reason is its additional diagnostic capability, particularly ECU Coding and Guided Functions.
ECU Coding for Supported Vehicles
ECU Coding allows technicians to perform supported coding or configuration operations on vehicle control modules.
Depending on the vehicle and available software coverage, coding may be useful when carrying out certain component replacements, vehicle configuration changes or electronic system repairs.
The DS900TS officially lists ECU Coding among its supported functions. This gives workshops an additional capability beyond TPMS servicing.
Keep in mind that ECU Coding is not the same as ECU Programming or ECU Flashing. The DS900TS should not be assumed to support every coding operation or ECU software programming procedure.
Guided Functions
The DS900TS also lists Guided Functions in its official feature comparison.
For supported vehicles, guided procedures can help technicians follow relevant diagnostic or repair steps. Actual availability depends on the vehicle and software coverage.
Broader Workshop Use
Because the DS900TS combines complete TPMS servicing with ECU Coding, Guided Functions, active tests and all-system diagnostics, it is worth considering for workshops that handle both tyre-related jobs and broader electronic diagnostic work.
If you expect your workshop to expand into more advanced vehicle diagnostics, these additional functions may provide more flexibility over time.
4. Autel TS900: Complete TPMS Servicing Without the Extra ECU Coding Requirement
The TS900 remains a capable option for workshops that prioritise TPMS and general vehicle diagnostics.
It provides complete TPMS servicing alongside all-system diagnostics, bidirectional active tests and a broad maintenance service menu.
What the TS900 Does Well
- Activate and read supported TPMS sensors.
- Program compatible Autel MX-Sensors.
- Perform supported TPMS relearn procedures.
- Read and clear supported TPMS fault codes.
- Access all-system vehicle diagnostics.
- Perform supported bidirectional active tests.
- Access 38+ maintenance service functions.
For tyre shops and workshops that regularly replace sensors, diagnose tyre pressure warnings and carry out routine vehicle servicing, these functions cover many everyday requirements.
The TS900 is not simply a basic TPMS activation tool. It combines dedicated TPMS functions with a tablet-based diagnostic platform.
If ECU Coding is not a requirement for your work, the TS900 may be a practical choice.
5. DS900TS vs TS900: Which One Is Better for Your Workshop?
The right choice depends on whether you need ECU Coding in addition to TPMS diagnostics.
Choose the Autel DS900TS if:
- You need complete TPMS diagnostics and sensor programming.
- ECU Coding is important for your workshop.
- You want Guided Functions on supported vehicles.
Choose the Autel TS900 if:
- Complete TPMS servicing is your main priority.
- You regularly activate, read and program compatible TPMS sensors.
- You also want all-system diagnostics, active tests and maintenance functions.
6. Frequently Asked Questions
Do both the Autel DS900TS and TS900 support complete TPMS diagnostics?
Yes. Both support comprehensive TPMS functions, including sensor activation, reading, compatible MX-Sensor programming and supported relearn procedures.
Can both scanners program TPMS sensors?
Yes. Both can program compatible Autel MX-Sensors. Compatibility depends on the sensor, vehicle and supported programming procedure.
Does the Autel TS900 support ECU Coding?
ECU Coding is not listed as a supported feature in the official TS900 product specifications. If ECU Coding is essential, the DS900TS is the safer choice based on the published feature lists.
Conclusion
Choose the DS900TS for added diagnostic flexibility, or the TS900 for professional TPMS servicing and everyday vehicle diagnostics. The right choice depends on your workshop's needs, the vehicles you service and the functions you plan to use.